Rise Up and Sing!: Choral Collection SoundTrax CD

A curated journey through accessible choral classics. The collection balances theatrical charm (Mikado, Hansel & Gretel) with folk warmth (All Through the Night) and uplifting optimism (the title number), creating a program that feels intentional rather than scattered.

Directors building a mixed repertoire concert or needing pieces that work for singers at various experience levels. This collection is particularly valuable for smaller programs where programming flexibility and budget efficiency matter.

• Build your program strategically by alternating the energy levels across the six pieces. Open with an uplifting selection to establish momentum, dip into a reverent moment midway through, and close with something that leaves your audience energized.
• Use the SoundTrax accompaniments in early rehearsals to establish tempos and harmonic context, then gradually reduce dependence on them as your singers internalize the music. This builds both confidence and independence.
• Since these pieces span different musical styles (Baroque, musical theatre, folk arrangements), pay attention to diction and vocal tone shifts between numbers. A crisp, articulate approach works for the Gilbert and Sullivan excerpt; a rounder, more legit tone suits the Humperdinck.

Perform all six pieces as a 30-minute standalone concert, or extract two or three selections to anchor a larger program featuring your developing soloists or chamber ensembles. The variety makes this collection ideal for holiday concerts, spring pops shows, or end-of-year celebrations where audience appeal matters as much as musical substance.

• Sustaining tone across multiple verses and key changes
• Balancing ensemble blend in pieces with prominent countermelodies
• Shifting articulation and resonance between contrasting musical styles (Baroque, musical theatre, folk arrangements)
• Responding to recorded accompaniments with rhythmic precision
• Performing extended programs without vocal fatigue