Look Up, Way Down: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words by Mattie J. T. Stepanek and Pepper Choplin, music by Pepper Choplin
Item: 00-PO-0000812
$1.75
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
Pickup currently not available
Description
The uplifting words of child poet Mattie J. T. Stepanek live on. "Peace is the goal, walkin' down the road . . . it begins when we take just one small step." A joyful, rhythmic, and inspiring setting, with gospel music flair. Accompaniment included on PianoTrax 1 CD (00-31028).
Look Up, Way Down: 2-Part Choral Octavo isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Request This Title
Tell us you want it.
Start Your Free Trial
Explore everything that's ready to play right now.
Sample Audio
1
Audio File
--:--
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0000812
More about this title
About the Creator: Mattie J. T. Stepanek
Mattie J. T. Stepanek became a voice for peace and hope during his lifetime, writing poetry that resonated far beyond what one might expect from a child poet. His words carried genuine wisdom about compassion, acceptance, and the power of small actions to create meaningful change in the world.
Stepanek's legacy continues through his published collections and the causes he championed. His message about taking one small step toward peace remains as relevant in classrooms and concert halls today as it was when he first wrote it.
Why we love this
The text carries genuine weight without ever feeling heavy. Mattie J. T. Stepanek's words about peace and small steps land with clarity and hope, and this setting honors that message by wrapping it in accessible, rhythmic music that kids actually want to sing. Gospel-influenced harmony and groove make it the kind of piece that sticks with singers long after rehearsal ends.
What to expect
Purposeful and energized. The rhythmic language and gospel-influenced harmony create forward momentum, while Stepanek's words about taking small steps toward peace give the music quiet conviction. It feels like a choir singing together for something that matters.
Who it's for
Directors working with developing choirs who want repertoire with real artistic substance and social-emotional resonance. The 2-part texture keeps note-reading manageable while the message and groove engage singers who care about what they're singing.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the rhythmic drive steady throughout; the gospel feel depends on consistent pulse from the rhythm section and confident attacks from the choir.
- Balance the two-part writing so both lines stay visible. The supporting part should anchor the melody without shadowing it.
- Lean into the word stress on peace and step; let those moments breathe slightly to let the meaning land.
How to use it
Pair this with other socially conscious repertoire in a concert theme about community and belonging, or program it as an uplifting moment midway through a set. Works equally well as a service music piece or a concert highlight.
Skills your students will build
- Two-part harmonic independence
- Gospel-influenced rhythmic accuracy and swing
- Lyrical interpretation and textual emphasis
- Ensemble blend and balance in close voicing