Taste and See: Choral Works (inc. Oratorios)

These choral works carry a quiet earnestness, with harmonic language that feels both contemporary and timeless. The writing creates space for singers to connect deeply with the words while maintaining the support of clear, singable lines throughout.

This collection suits developing and mature choirs of mixed voices seeking meaningful sacred literature with manageable ranges and clear voice leading. Directors programming liturgical services, concert seasons, or festival selections will find material that respects both the text and their singers' capabilities.

• Balance the voices carefully through the harmonic progressions; Decker's writing rewards precise intonation in sustained sections where the beauty of the vertical harmony becomes the focal point.
• Shape phrases around the natural stress and breathing points of the text rather than fighting them; her settings are written to follow the language, not override it.
• Let the tempo breathe rather than pushing through sustained passages; these pieces gain their warmth from stillness, not momentum.

Include these pieces in services where contemplative, well-crafted sacred music serves the liturgy without demanding extended rehearsal time. They work particularly well alongside more elaborate works in a mixed concert program, offering textural and emotional contrast.

• Reading and sustaining independent voice parts in four-part mixed voicing
• Phrase shaping in texts with spiritual or liturgical content
• Balancing blend and intonation within harmonic progressions
• Connecting textual meaning to musical expression