David Lantz III brings classroom experience and compositional ambition together as a full-time vocal music educator in Pennsylvania's public schools. His catalog of approximately 500 published works spans sacred and secular choral music, orchestral writing, symphonic band scores, jazz arrangements, and chamber compositions distributed through major American publishers. Beyond composition, he works as a music editor and engraver, directs church choirs, and performs as a bassist and vocalist in pop and jazz settings. He shares his northeastern Pennsylvania home with his wife, composer Marti Lunn Lantz, and their five musically active children.
Why we love this
Lantz and Boersma craft a piece that honors the contemplative space of Advent without resorting to familiar carol arrangements. The text and music work together to capture genuine longing rather than celebration, giving singers substantive emotional material to communicate and audiences a fresh addition to holiday programming.
What to expect
The piece sustains an introspective quality, inviting singers and listeners into a meditative space. Rather than triumphant or joyful, it dwells in anticipation and desire, making it a fitting complement to Advent worship or concert programming.
Who it's for
This octavo suits developing SATB choirs seeking meaningful seasonal repertoire that extends beyond traditional carols. High school, college, and adult community choirs will find it accessible yet musically rewarding.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the texture so no single voice part overwhelms the harmonic progression; this piece depends on blend rather than individual visibility.
Shape the phrase arcs deliberately, resisting the urge to breathe too frequently and allowing the longing quality to develop across longer musical lines.
Work the alto and tenor lines with care during rehearsal; they often carry important harmonic information that supports the overall sound.
How to use it
Include this during an Advent service or holiday concert where you want to create contrast with brighter, more celebratory carols. Its seven pages fit easily into a varied program and work particularly well in the second half when you want listeners to settle into reflection.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining lyrical tone across longer phrases
Blending within a four-part texture while maintaining clarity
Interpreting sacred text with emotional authenticity
Reading and performing smooth harmonic progressions
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