Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow!: SATB Choral Octavo

Hayes writes spirituals that work in real rehearsal spaces with mixed ability levels. The unison passages keep less secure voices confident while the sophisticated piano part gives your accompanist something genuinely rewarding to play, not something to simply get through. The structural arc from fanfare through swing to climax creates a performance moment your singers will feel.

A spiritual reimagined through a concert lens, opening with processional grandeur before settling into a groovy, modern swing. The music feels contemporary yet rooted, sophisticated yet joyful, with momentum that builds naturally toward a satisfying, powerful close.

This arrangement suits intermediate to advanced choral programs with a capable pianist. Directors seeking a spiritual that moves beyond congregational style will find Hayes's harmonic sophistication and rhythmic vitality refreshing, while the unison writing keeps the piece accessible for singers still developing sight-reading confidence.

• Shape the opening fanfare with clear articulation and weight in the piano; this sets the majestic tone before the ensemble enters and signals to listeners that this is no simple arrangement.
• Maintain the moderate swing feel with a light, forward lift in the voice parts rather than a heavy, dragging pulse; the piano will anchor the groove if the choir stays buoyant.
• Balance the climax carefully in the final section by bringing out upper voices without sacrificing the fundamental line, allowing the building intensity to feel earned rather than forced.
• Work with your accompanist early on the rhythmic interaction between hands in the piano part; the accompanist's confidence will directly affect how secure the choir feels in the swing sections.

Program this at the center of a sacred or holiday concert where it can serve as a bridging piece between traditional hymn arrangements and more contemporary choral works. Its length (12 pages) and moderate difficulty make it ideal for spring concert or holiday shows that need a statement number without demanding excessive rehearsal time.

• Sustaining unison singing across sections while listening to inner harmony parts
• Locking into a swing feel with varied articulation and rhythmic precision
• Balancing ensemble power with clarity during dynamic climaxes
• Responding to sophisticated accompaniment without depending on the piano to carry weak vocal lines