Spirituals for Solo Singers, Volume 2: Medium High Voice Book & CD

These arrangements evoke both quiet introspection and soaring hope. The music moves with the narratives embedded in each spiritual, from the longing of "Deep River" to the quiet dignity of "Sit Down Servant," creating space for singers to inhabit each story fully.

Solo singers preparing recital repertoire who want arrangements that honor the spiritual tradition while offering fresh musical perspective. This collection works for mature high school soloists through professional singers, whether they're building a first recital program or deepening their spiritual music library.

• Use the recorded accompaniment to anchor your interpretation during early rehearsals, then gradually weave in your own phrasing choices once the melody and harmony feel secure.
• These spirituals carry deep cultural and spiritual weight; research the historical and social context of each song to inform your emotional delivery and textual clarity.
• Pay attention to the specific dynamics and tempo markings Hayes and the other arrangers have provided; they're placed deliberately to shape the narrative arc of each piece.
• Balance legit vocal tone with the conversational quality these songs demand; spirituals live in the space between concert formality and genuine expression.

Build an entire recital around this collection, or use individual pieces to anchor concert halves devoted to American song and spiritual expression. Several spirituals work well in sacred music settings, memorial services, or concert programs exploring themes of justice and resilience.

• Phrasing and text expression in American spiritual repertoire
• Interpretation of contemporary sacred arrangements
• Working with recorded accompaniment to develop independence
• Understanding historical and cultural context in solo performance
• Balancing legit vocal technique with conversational delivery