The Swing: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Name: The Swing: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-39736
Price: 1.85 USD
Availability: InStock

Words by Robert Louis Stevenson, music by Greg Gilpin

Item: 00-39736

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One moment…

A mostly step-wise melody soon becomes a canon in this playfully poetic piece written especially for 2-part treble singers. Near the end, a gentle and expressive moment brings out the thoughtful text. Delightful..

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Series: Alfred Choral Designs

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 8

UPC: 038081443973

SKU: 00-39736

More about this title

About the Composer: Greg Gilpin

Greg Gilpin is an ASCAP award-winning choral composer and arranger whose conducting credentials span some of the world's most prestigious venues, from Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York to the Sydney Opera House, Royal Festival Hall in London, and Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik. He serves as Director of Educational Choral Publications for Shawnee Press and has built a distinguished reputation for writing accessible, engaging choral music that works in educational settings.

Beyond his work in music, Gilpin has expanded into professional organizing and financial coaching, appearing on major network television and the series "Hoarders." In 2021, he composed the award-winning score for the short film "Rosie's Rescue" and collaborated with opera singer Angela Brown on a new arrangement of "What Child is This?" that premiered with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. He holds membership in ACDA, NAfME, SAG-AFTRA, and is a Life Loyal Member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

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Why we love this

Gilpin's gift for writing narrative-driven choral music shines here. The shift from step-wise melody into canon construction feels organic rather than contrived, and the poem itself carries enough substance that singers connect emotionally to the text rather than simply executing technical patterns. The gentle expressive moment near the end gives young singers permission to sing with intention, making this piece equally satisfying for the ensemble and rewarding for an audience.

What to expect

Playful yet thoughtful, with a conversational quality that unfolds naturally from the opening melody. The canonic section brings a sense of discovery as singers realize their parts interlock, while the reflective moment near the end shifts the energy toward something more introspective and sincere.

Who it's for

Directors working with developing treble ensembles who want to introduce canon writing without overwhelming singers with complexity. This piece works equally well in middle school choirs and upper elementary ensembles with strong musical fundamentals.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the stepwise opening melody with gentle forward motion; resist the urge to telegraph the canon entrance that follows.
When the canon begins, establish a secure tempo with the first voice before bringing in the second part. A light touch from the accompanist will help singers lock onto their entries.
The expressive section deserves genuine breath and space. Encourage singers to think about the meaning of each phrase rather than rushing through to the end.

How to use it

Use this as a lighter selection sandwiched between weightier repertoire, or pair it with other secular pieces built on literary text for a thematic program exploring poetry in song. Its modest eight-page length also makes it ideal for spring concerts or shorter ensemble showcases where you want variety in mood and approach.