Emily Crocker spent 15 years teaching music across all grade levels in Texas public schools before transitioning to publishing. She joined Hal Leonard in 1989 and shaped the company's choral output for nearly three decades, eventually serving as VP of Choral Publications until her 2017 retirement.
Beyond the publishing house, Crocker founded and directed the Milwaukee Children's Choir for 15 years and established the Vocal Arts Academy of Milwaukee, earning Director Emeritus status in 2019. Her compositions have earned international performance, with particular recognition for her gift in creating accessible yet musically substantive choral instructional materials. She now composes and advocates for the arts from her home in Fort Worth, Texas.
Why we love this
Crocker brings a deep understanding of what works in the rehearsal room to every arrangement she touches. Her distillation of this folk melody respects the narrative arc of the text while providing genuine musical interest for singers and listeners alike.
What to expect
The arrangement carries the quiet weight of a folk narrative. There's intimacy in the part writing and a sense of gathering around something meaningful, rather than spectacle or technical display.
Who it's for
This works for upper level male choirs, mixed ensembles comfortable with changing voicings, and smaller concert choruses looking for folk material with substance. Directors seeking repertoire that doesn't require a large roster or complicated staging will find this accessible and rewarding.
How to get the most out of it
Establish the storytelling tone early. The narrative clarity here matters as much as the harmonic balance, so invest time shaping how each verse unfolds.
Let the baritones anchor the low voices without forcing weight. This arrangement sits naturally when each part sings its line with intention rather than volume.
Consider whether your space calls for a cappella or light accompaniment. The arrangement functions beautifully either way, though your acoustics and ensemble confidence should guide the choice.
How to use it
Pair this with other narrative folk pieces to build a thematic concert half, or use it as a contrasting moment in a more formal program where its understated dignity cuts through. It's the kind of piece that lingers after the final chord.
Skills your students will build
Reading TTB/TBB voicing changes within a single piece
Balancing independent voice lines while maintaining lyrical continuity
Interpreting folk melody across different harmonic settings
Phrasing and storytelling in secular vocal music
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