Heather Sorenson has built an international reputation as a composer and arranger working across multiple genres and performance contexts. Based in Dallas, her catalogue spans churches, schools, universities, and concert halls, with commissions from institutions including Texas A&M University and the Carnegie Hall premiere of her oratorio EXODUS. She moves fluidly between traditional and contemporary Christian music, often synthesizing both idioms into a distinctive compositional voice.
Beyond her prolific output, Sorenson has shaped music education through teaching elementary music at Grace Academy of Dallas, serving as an adjunct professor at Baylor University, and leading master classes and workshops nationwide. She regularly conducts and speaks at churches and worship conferences, bringing her expertise directly to communities. When not composing or traveling as a guest artist, she channels her musical gifts toward benefit concerts for nonprofit organizations.
Why we love this
Sorenson's gift for blending contemporary pop idioms with four-part choral writing makes this octavo feel fresh without sacrificing singability. The text works on both devotional and congregational levels, letting directors program it in worship settings or secular concert contexts with equal authenticity.
What to expect
Modern and celebratory, with a pop sensibility that keeps the energy infectious without losing the sacred substance of the text. The piece invites singers to perform with conviction and joy, creating a sense of immediacy and relevance.
Who it's for
Choir directors seeking contemporary sacred music that speaks to both traditional and younger congregations or audiences. This octavo suits advanced high school and college ensembles, as well as volunteer church choirs with solid reading skills.
How to get the most out of it
Nail the rhythmic precision in the pop-influenced passages by counting through any syncopated sections in rehearsal with a metronome; the groove depends on ensemble lock.
Balance the soprano line against the other voices, especially if there's a catchy melodic hook that can easily overshadow the harmonic foundation.
Explore the dynamic shape of the arrangement to avoid a flat delivery; pop styles often call for more contrast than traditional choral writing.
Give yourself adequate rehearsal time on any complex text declamation or rhythmic figures that sit awkwardly on the voice.
How to use it
This works beautifully as a bridge between traditional hymnal singing and contemporary worship settings, making it ideal for a Sunday service or special music moment. Consider pairing it with spirituals or gospel arrangements to create a program that honors multiple musical traditions.
Skills your students will build
Navigating pop rhythms and syncopation in a four-part harmonic context
Balancing contemporary idiom with accurate choral blend
Performing sacred text with contemporary musical sensibility
Ensemble precision in groove-based choral arrangements
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