Julie I. Myers has shaped music education across Pennsylvania classrooms for nearly three decades, combining her background in composition from Westminster Choir College with certification in Orff Schulwerk pedagogy. Her work as a lyricist has become central to her artistic identity; she regularly partners with composers to create texts for school and sacred choral repertoire, with publications spanning Music K-8, Highlights for Children, and Reader's Digest.
Beyond the classroom, Myers maintains active involvement in the writing community as a member of Pennwriters, bringing her dual expertise in music and language arts to bear on every project. Her award-winning approach to text setting reflects years of understanding what voices need to sing and what young musicians need to learn.
Why we love this
Myers and Lloyd craft an Advent text that avoids the predictable carol framework, offering instead something contemplative and genuinely singable for a full SATB choir. The arrangement by Thornett balances accessibility with textural interest, making this a standout choice for holiday programming that doesn't rely on arrangements of familiar tunes.
What to expect
The piece invites singers into a quiet moment of reflection. Cold winter imagery meets contemplative harmony, creating space for vulnerability rather than celebration, which gives it emotional weight appropriate to Advent's meditative character.
Who it's for
This octavo works well for intermediate to advanced SATB choirs seeking sacred music with literary substance for the Advent season. It suits groups comfortable with seven pages of material and ready to invest rehearsal time in music that rewards careful interpretation.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the opening phrases to emphasize the stillness of the winter imagery rather than pushing volume; let the poetry breathe.
Mark the moments where voices enter or divide, since these shifts carry meaning in the text.
Attend to vowel consistency across sections, especially in slower passages where blend becomes more exposed.
Balance the alto and tenor lines carefully; they often carry important harmonic color that can disappear if the sopranos and basses dominate.
How to use it
Consider pairing this with more jubilant Advent selections to create programming that honors both the waiting and anticipation of the season. It also functions beautifully as a concert opener, establishing an introspective mood before moving into other repertoire.
Skills your students will build
Sustained phrasing in slower tempos
Blend and balance in four-part harmony
Interpretation of text-driven compositional choices
Dynamic control in soft, exposed passages
Voice independence in divided sections
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
