Joel Raney absorbed gospel music from the pews of a rural Alabama Baptist church, an experience that has shaped every piece he's written since childhood. After earning his bachelor's degree in choral conducting from the University of North Alabama, he pursued advanced keyboard training at Juilliard, then immersed himself in the commercial music world for decades, composing thousands of television and radio spots while maintaining an active career as a concert pianist and choral clinician.
Since 1999, Raney has become one of the most prolific voices in church music, with over 300 published titles spanning choral anthems, musicals, cantatas, handbell works, and instrumental compositions. As Editor at Hope Publishing and a frequent guest conductor for Broadway national tours, he brings both the technical rigor of classical training and the soulful accessibility of his gospel roots to every score he creates.
Why we love this
Raney's gift lies in creating pieces that feel celebratory without becoming saccharine, spiritually grounded without demanding virtuosity. This octavo carries his signature warmth and textural sophistication, making it equally at home in a Sunday service and a concert hall performance.
What to expect
Luminous and uplifting, with the warmth of gospel harmony nestled inside a thoughtfully crafted choral framework. The piece builds with purpose, inviting singers to feel both the communal joy and the spiritual intention of the text.
Who it's for
Sacred music directors seeking a contemporary anthem with substance and accessibility. The piece works beautifully for choirs ranging from volunteer church groups to advanced high school and college ensembles.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the harmonic movement by bringing out inner voices; Raney's arrangements reward careful balance work that lets the choral texture breathe.
Honor the gospel influences by allowing rhythmic flexibility in the climactic moments rather than keeping everything metrically rigid.
Use the recorded accompaniment to lock in ensemble unison passages first, then layer in the harmonic complexity once confidence builds.
How to use it
Pair this with another Raney work during a spring or Pentecost service for a cohesive musical statement, or feature it as the centerpiece of a contemporary sacred music concert that bridges traditional and modern sensibilities.
Skills your students will build
Balancing inner harmonic lines in four-part writing
Navigating gospel-influenced rhythmic phrasing within a concert setting
Sustaining vocal line independence while maintaining ensemble blend
Interpreting text with both spiritual authenticity and musical nuance
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