The Winter Wind: PianoTrax Digital Download

$9.99 USD

The Winter Wind: PianoTrax Digital Download

Words and music by Mary Donnelly and George L. O. Strid

Item: 00-A-00016566

$9.99

Digital Download

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Series: Alfred Choral Designs

Publisher: Alfred Music

UPC: 0

SKU: 00-A-00016566

Instrumentation: with Flute Obbligato

More about this title

About the Composer: Mary Donnelly

Mary Donnelly grew up in Reno, Nevada, and earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Nevada, Reno in English and French. While still an undergraduate, she founded two children's choruses and discovered her passion for music education. She pursued formal training by earning a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she focused on integrating arts across the curriculum.

Donnelly spent thirty years teaching general music and choir in the Washoe County School District in Reno, where she worked as both an educator and composer. In 1985, she began collaborating with George L. O. Strid when they were asked to write a musical for a sixth-grade Reading Week project. That first collaboration launched a prolific partnership that has produced over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals. A member of ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP, Donnelly has retired from classroom teaching but continues her work as a published composer.

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Why we love this

Donnelly and Strid craft accessible, singable melodies that feel fresh without demanding extensive rehearsal time. The addition of a flute obbligato gives this 2-part choral piece textural sophistication while the 2-part voicing keeps it realistic for middle school or community ensembles. Winter programming often falls flat; this piece captures seasonal imagery with enough musical substance to hold interest in both concert and festival settings.

What to expect

Crisp and evocative, with the character of a winter walk. The flute obbligato creates a shimmering quality that suggests wind and movement, while the choral writing remains grounded and warm. There's a reflective quality that invites singers and listeners alike into the season's quieter moments.

Who it's for

Middle school and high school choirs looking for concert repertoire that doesn't require advanced vocal technique. The 2-part voicing works well for ensembles with mixed voices or developing singers. Schools with flute players in band or orchestra can easily extract the obbligato part for this performance.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the flute obbligato so it weaves through the choral texture rather than dominating. The instrument should enhance, not overshadow, the singers' parts.
Establish a clear pulse early in rehearsal. The interaction between choir and flute requires precision, so lock down rhythm before refining blend.
Shape phrases with attention to text painting. Winter imagery provides natural moments for dynamic and tonal shifts that bring the song to life.
Let the singers breathe together; phrasing coherence between the two voice parts depends on unified breath control.

How to use it

Slot this into a winter or holiday concert as a secular alternative to traditional seasonal fare. Its moderate length and straightforward demands make it a solid anchor piece for a program built around seasonal or nature-themed selections. The concert and contest designations indicate it works equally well as a showcase piece at adjudicated festivals.