Wind in the Pines: SSA Choral Octavo
Words by Madison Cawein, music and additional words by Bruce W. Tippette
Item: 00-PO-0007446
$2.40
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
This expressive poetic setting opens with a piano motif reminiscent of rushing wind. Three legato voice parts unfold and intertwine. Staggered entrances in the middle assemble and grow until we "hear sonorous lines soaring through the pines." Encourage singers to soften and slow to a dreamy, relaxed ending. Ideal for contest and festival use.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
16
SKU:
00-PO-0007446
More about this title
Why we love this
Tippette captures something genuinely atmospheric here. The interweaving legato lines and staggered entrances create natural musical architecture without relying on thick block chords, which means even modest singers sound expressive. Directors appreciate work that combines contest appeal with genuine artistic substance.
What to expect
Wind in the Pines evokes stillness with motion underneath. The opening suggests rushing air through a forest, but the legato voice writing feels intimate and introspective. By the end, the piece settles into something peaceful and contemplative, as if the listener has found rest among the trees.
Who it's for
SSA choirs at the intermediate to advanced level who are ready for multi-part writing that prioritizes blend and sustained line over syllabic text setting. This works equally well for ensembles preparing for festival competition or concert programming where poetic expression matters.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening piano motif with clarity and rhythmic precision so the legato voice entries have something to anchor against.
- Treat staggered entrances as a building process rather than isolated events; each new voice should feel like a natural extension of the texture already present.
- Resist the urge to rush during the middle section as lines intertwine; maintain steady pulse while allowing harmonic movement to create momentum.
- Work toward that final "dreamy, relaxed ending" through gradual tempo reduction and dynamic softening rather than an abrupt shift in character.
How to use it
This pairs naturally with other nature-inspired or atmospheric choral work on a concert. It also serves as a strong contest entry for festivals where literary text and musical sophistication are valued. The piece's moderate length makes it an excellent choice for building a varied set without overloading rehearsal schedules.
Skills your students will build
- Sustaining legato line across phrase boundaries
- Entering accurately with staggered entrances in three-part texture
- Balancing individual voice parts while maintaining overall harmonic blend
- Responding to gradual tempo and dynamic changes in the final section
- Interpreting poetic imagery through vocal shaping and tone color