Rise Above The Walls: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Gilpin writes with the graduation ceremony and assembly hall in mind. His text choices land with genuine emotional weight without veering into sentimentality, and the two-part writing sits comfortably for mixed ability choirs while offering enough musical substance to keep strong singers engaged. The inspirational message paired with multicultural sensibility makes this feel current and inclusive, not recycled.

Uplifting without false brightness. The piece carries genuine conviction about overcoming obstacles and moving forward, grounded in music that feels earned rather than imposed. There's warmth in the harmonies and resilience in the shape of the melodies.

Choirs preparing for graduation, spring concerts, or assembly programs will find this accessible and moving. The two-part voicing works for middle school through early high school choirs, as well as community and adult ensembles seeking repertoire with substance and purpose.

• Balance the harmonic movement by bringing out inner parts in measures where they carry the melodic intent; don't let the top line monopolize the texture.
• Shape phrases by thinking horizontally rather than vertically. Each voice should have a sense of line and direction, even in supporting material.
• Let the text breathe. Resist the urge to rush through emotional peaks. Gravity and space serve the message better than momentum.

Pair this with other pieces that celebrate resilience and growth, or let it stand alone as a centerpiece for a graduation or awards assembly. Its length and difficulty level make it ideal as a finale that leaves the audience with something substantive to take away.

• Two-part harmonic independence and blend
• Textual expression and phrase shaping in inspirational repertoire
• Reading and performing accessible contemporary choral writing
• Ensemble balance with mixed vocal ranges