Patti Drennan's career in music education spans three decades, anchored in Oklahoma public schools where she taught choral music and built programs known for superior festival ratings. She holds degrees in music education from Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma, and her work in the classroom earned her Teacher of the Year recognition and the Oklahoma Choral Directors Association's Director of Distinction Award in 2004.
Since stepping away from full-time teaching, Drennan has become one of the most prolific choral arrangers in the country, with over 425 octavos published and millions of copies in circulation. She maintains an active presence as a clinician, workshop presenter, and composer's weekend director across the United States and Canada, while continuing to perform and record with her daughter and collaborate on various symphonic projects.
Why we love this
Drennan writes for SATB choirs with a keen understanding of what singers need: parts that sit comfortably in the voice, text that lands with clarity, and music that serves the message without demanding technical gymnastics. A two-page octavo with this title and composer pairing delivers exactly the kind of accessible, purposeful anthem that works equally well in a church service or a school concert.
What to expect
Joyful and direct, with a character that feels both sincere and celebratory. The music unfolds with warmth and clarity, inviting singers and listeners alike to embrace its encouraging message.
Who it's for
Any SATB choir looking for a concise, uplifting sacred selection suitable for worship services, festivals, or special occasions. The modest page count and accessible voicing make it appropriate for developing choirs while remaining musically substantial.
How to get the most out of it
Establish clear diction on the title phrase so the text projects confidently. Since this piece centers on joy, the articulation should feel buoyant rather than heavy.
Balance the SATB voices so no single line dominates; Drennan typically writes with supportive harmony, so let the soprano carry the melody while keeping all four parts audible.
Pace the piece to allow the text to breathe and resonate. Rushing undermines the weight of the message.
How to use it
Pair this with longer, more complex pieces to create programming balance, or nest it within a service or concert that emphasizes hope and affirmation. Its brevity also makes it ideal for including as a bonus selection or for rounds of festival performances where time is limited.
Skills your students will build
Singing sustained, supported tone in all four voice parts
Clear diction and text projection in ensemble singing
Blend and balance within an SATB texture
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