Ubuntu: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words and music by Kyle Pederson
Item: 00-PO-0006708
$2.20
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
There is a word in South Africa, Ubuntu, which recognizes that we are better as individuals and entire communities when we root ourselves in relationships. When we care for each other and embrace our essential unity, humanity thrives. This very special original song invites singers and audience members to live Ubuntu, connected as one global family. Two-part singers will quickly learn the naturally syncopated hook, echo phrases, and no fuss harmony. A small drum circle, an opening narrator, a few rap soloists, and some resonant descant voices guarantee an impressive performance. This is the type of piece you'd hear at convention, hope your kids can handle, and then rejoice when you realize they can!
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
16
SKU:
00-PO-0006708
More about this title
About the Composer: Kyle Pederson
Kyle Pederson composes and writes lyrics from Minneapolis, bringing together sacred and secular musical traditions in work that challenges choirs and audiences to embody hope, grace, and compassion. His music has earned recognition including the American Prize in Choral Composition (2019) and the ACDA Genesis Prize (2020), reflecting his commitment to repertoire with moral and spiritual depth.
Pederson holds degrees from Augustana University, the University of St. Thomas (Master's in Education), and Vermont College of Fine Arts (MFA in Music Composition). His background in education shapes his approach to writing for singers at all levels, creating pieces that are immediately singable yet musically substantial.
Why we love this
Ubuntu cuts through the noise with a message about human connection that genuinely lands with young singers and audiences alike. The syncopated hook and rap elements feel contemporary without sacrificing choral integrity, and the optional drum circle, narrator, and descant voices give you multiple layers of sophistication to deploy depending on your ensemble's readiness. This is the kind of piece that builds confidence while teaching something real.
What to expect
Ubuntu moves with contemporary energy rooted in African musical tradition, creating a piece that feels vital and purposeful rather than preachy. The blend of rhythm, harmony, and message creates something that lingers with singers long after rehearsal ends.
Who it's for
This octavo is built for middle and high school choirs ready to tackle syncopation and ensemble precision without sacrificing accessibility. The two-part voicing means developing singers can succeed, while the layered performance options (rap soloists, narrator, drums, descant) allow advanced singers to anchor the sound and drive the interpretation.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock the syncopation of the hook early in rehearsal by isolating it without accompaniment; the rhythm is intuitive once singers hear it isolated, but rushing through it creates sloppiness in performance.
- Assign the echo phrases to specific sections and have them listen actively to the main singers before they enter; this responsorial texture requires attention and discipline.
- If using the drum circle, establish a clear visual cue from the conductor so the percussion entrance feels integrated rather than added on.
- Shape the descant voices with dynamic independence so they enhance rather than overshadow the main two-part texture; this layer should feel like a crown, not a distraction.
How to use it
Program this as a concert centerpiece or festival showstopper where it can command full attention and showcase your ensemble's rhythmic maturity and social consciousness. Pair it with related texts about community or global citizenship if building a thematic concert, or use it as a cultural bridge piece that signals your choir's engagement with diverse musical voices.
Skills your students will build
- Syncopated rhythm reading and performance in a popular music style
- Echo and responsorial singing techniques
- Layering of multiple vocal parts (two-part harmony with optional descant)
- Interpretation of contemporary and culturally rooted musical material
- Ensemble precision and rhythmic independence