Pepper Choplin holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Bachelor of Music) and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth (Master of Music in composition). His catalog includes over two hundred anthems alongside seven choral musicals, born largely from his work as Minister of Music at Greystone Baptist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Choplin's creative range spans rock, classical, and bluegrass styles, and he brings equal parts musicianship and theatrical sensibility to his work. He conducts and clinician events nationwide, drawing audiences through a distinctive blend of inspirational and humorous material. His recordings include the self-produced Pepper Is My Real Name and the solo album Hold On, which gathers his most resonant inspirational compositions. His core mission remains constant: creating music that moves people into genuine, dramatic worship.
Why we love this
Choplin captures Advent's particular emotional texture here, balancing expectation with present-tense joy rather than falling into the somber register many directors expect from pre-Christmas repertoire. A single octavo page makes this accessible for groups with limited rehearsal time, yet the music itself carries genuine harmonic interest and singability that keeps singers engaged.
What to expect
The music breathes with anticipatory warmth. Rather than waiting passively for a season to arrive, this anthem asks singers and listeners to recognize and celebrate the goodness already present in the season's unfolding.
Who it's for
SATB choirs preparing Advent or early Christmas programming who want material with genuine substance but manageable scope. Works equally well for volunteer church choirs and school ensemble programs seeking repertoire that lands emotionally without demanding weeks of rehearsal.
How to get the most out of it
Let the text shape your phrasing and dynamics. The word 'joyful' should feel earned through how your singers shape the phrase, not forced through volume alone.
Balance clarity in the SATB texture by listening for whether any voice part disappears in full ensemble sections; adjust microphone placement or seating if needed.
Establish a warm, conversational tone in rehearsal before polishing diction. This piece works best when singers feel permission to smile through the music.
How to use it
Pair this with readings about Advent hope or place it early in a Christmas concert to establish tone before moving into more elaborate or darker seasonal pieces. At a single page, it's ideal for filling a gap in shorter services or using in a medley of Advent-themed selections.
Skills your students will build
Expressive text interpretation in sacred contexts
Balancing ensemble blend across four-part writing
Sustaining emotional authenticity without oversinging
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
