Psalm 130 Cover Image

Psalm 130: Brass Choir Score & Parts

$30.00 USD
$30.00 USD
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Psalm 130 Cover Image
Psalm 130: Brass Choir Score & Parts

Psalm 130: Brass Choir Score & Parts

By Kenneth Bray

Level: Medium-Difficult

Item: 81-BC976
$30.00
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Description
Psalm 130 is an original composition by Kenneth Bray. It is a truly powerful work, full of chromaticism and motivic development. Mr. Bray originally wrote this Psalm for choir (SATB and organ) which is also available only through Eighth Note Publications and this version for brass choir is equally as effective and moving. The piece commences with almost a feeling of anger and resentment which moves towards a more tonal-centered section which is more calm in feeling. Mr. Bray has arranged many pieces for many combinations of instruments and this composition demonstrates his knowledge of the ensemble and his sensitivity for the musical line. Scored for 4 trumpets, 4 horns, 3 trombones, euphonium, tuba and one percussionist, this versatile combination of brass instruments sounds like an organ playing the rich harmonies and interwoven lines. This piece is not too difficult and is attainable by a brass choir with some work. Psalm is a work that is sure to receive more attention in the future.

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Additional Details
Series: Eighth Note Publications
Publisher: Eighth Note Publications
ISBN10: 1-55472-786-3
ISBN13: 978-1-55472-786-5
UPC: 685462000807
SKU: 81-BC976
Instrumentation: 4.4.3.1.1.perc

More about this title

About the Composer: Kenneth Bray

Kenneth Bray is a composer and arranger with a gift for reimagining sacred and secular works across diverse instrumental combinations. His arrangements demonstrate deep understanding of ensemble sonorities, from brass to woodwind to string configurations, and his original compositions reveal a sophisticated harmonic language rooted in 20th-century chromaticism.

Why we love this

Bray's arrangement captures the emotional arc of the psalm text without relying on lyrics. The scoring harnesses brass timbre to replicate organ registration, allowing the piece to function both as a concert work and as a profound liturgical moment. The harmonic journey from tense chromaticism to tonal resolution mirrors the psalm's spiritual arc, giving brass players meaningful interpretive work beyond technical display.

What to expect

The piece inhabits an unsettled emotional space before gradually finding resolution. Chromatic voices wind around each other in the opening, creating tension and forward motion, while the second section settles into warmer, more grounded harmonic territory. Throughout, the brass voices suggest the resonance and complexity of organ voicing.

Who it's for

Medium-difficult brass choirs with solid fundamentals in intonation and harmonic blend. This work suits ensembles ready to tackle chromatic harmony and sustained, layered textures while preparing for festival or concert presentation.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the opening section with attention to dynamic gradation rather than sudden shifts. The anger and resentment Bray intends emerges through sustained pressure and chromatic motion, not aggressive attacks.
  • Balance the four trumpet and four horn lines carefully during the thickest textures. These choirs often blend into an undifferentiated mass; instead, ensure each section's melodic contribution remains audible.
  • Prepare for the tonal-centered section as a genuine harmonic arrival, not a relaxation. This shift requires the ensemble to reset intonation and approach chord stability as a deliberate musical event.
  • Assign the percussion part thoughtfully. The single percussionist role should enhance structure and punctuation without dominating the brass sonority.

How to use it

Program this as a centerpiece on a concert exploring sacred works in brass literature, pairing it with contrasting pieces in major keys or lighter textures. The emotional intensity and moderate difficulty make it a strong choice for a spring festival or concert featuring diverse musical landscapes.

Skills your students will build

  • Chromatic intonation and voice leading
  • Sustained harmonic blending across divided sections
  • Expressive dynamic shaping over long phrases
  • Ensemble balance when multiple independent melodic lines intersect

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