Maoz Tzur: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Name: Maoz Tzur: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-48363
Price: 2.05 USD
Availability: InStock

Traditional Hebrew Song / arr. Matt Podd

Item: 00-48363

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Originally penned for the Young People's Chorus of New York City, this contemporary pop-influenced arrangement puts a new spin on the traditional Hanukkah song. A gentle piano groove provides a fresh framework for the treasured melody, which is elongated and echoed part to part the second time around. A Hebrew pronunciation guide and translation are included.

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Series: Alfred Choral Designs

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 8

UPC: 038081551869

SKU: 00-48363

More about this title

About the Arranger: Matt Podd

Matt Podd brings expertise across jazz, gospel, pop, and choral music from his base in New York City. He has served as pianist, arranger, and orchestrator for major artists and ensembles including Barbra Streisand, the Boston Pops, the National Symphony Orchestra, and many others, with his work performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and the White House.

Podd holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music and Ithaca College. He collaborates frequently with his twin brother Adam on musical projects, including their band Mimi & the Podd Brothers.

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Why we love this

This arrangement captures what makes a traditional melody speak to contemporary choirs: the gentle piano groove feels immediate and accessible, while Podd's treatment of the melody in the second verse (elongated and echoed between parts) creates genuine musical interest without overcomplicating the ensemble's task. The inclusion of pronunciation guidance and translation means you're giving your singers the cultural and linguistic context they deserve.

What to expect

The arrangement balances reverence for a cherished melody with a distinctly modern sensibility. The gentle piano groove creates warmth and forward motion, while the two-part writing feels inviting rather than demanding, allowing singers to focus on the shape and meaning of the text.

Who it's for

This octavo works for choirs seeking accessible holiday literature that respects tradition while sounding current. It suits programs ranging from youth choirs to community ensembles, especially those performing Hanukkah services or secular seasonal concerts where contemporary energy matters.

How to get the most out of it

Keep the piano accompaniment relaxed and flowing; the groove should feel natural, not metronomic. Let the pocket breathe.
Shape the elongated melody in the second verse as a call and response between parts. Listen for balance so the echo doesn't overshadow the lead voice.
Take time with Hebrew pronunciation during rehearsal, drilling the guide provided so singers own the words rather than reading through them.

How to use it

Program this as an opening number for a Hanukkah concert or winter holiday service; its contemporary sound creates an engaging entry point before moving to other repertoire. It also works effectively as a standalone piece in secular holiday programs where you want cultural representation alongside traditional favorites.