Worthy to be Praised!: SSA Choral Octavo
Worthy to be Praised!: SSA Choral Octavo
Worthy to be Praised!: SSA Choral Octavo
Worthy to be Praised! Sheet Music Preview

Worthy to be Praised!: SSA Choral Octavo

By Byron J. Smith

Item: 00-PO-0002402
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$2.20

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

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Worthy to be Praised!: SSA Choral Octavo

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Description
After a rubato opening, this robust work soon breaks into a driving gospel feel that will raise the roof! Now available for SSA, this classic continues to inspire twenty years after it was first published.

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Additional Details
Series: Lawson-Gould
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 16
SKU: 00-PO-0002402

More about this title

About the Composer: Byron J. Smith

Byron J. Smith has established himself as a trusted voice in contemporary sacred choral music, with a particular gift for blending spiritual substance with accessibility. His works, including the enduring "Worthy to be Praised!," demonstrate a composer who understands what moves singers and audiences alike across denominational lines.

Why we love this

Smith's arrangement captures the infectious energy of gospel without requiring advanced vocal technique, making it accessible for SSA ensembles while maintaining genuine musical power. The contrasting sections give you real programming flexibility: the contemplative opening works beautifully in a reverent context, while the driving second half energizes any concert closer. Twenty years in the repertoire means it's been tested in hundreds of rehearsals and performances, and it still delivers.

What to expect

The piece opens with hushed reverence and introspection, then pivots into something buoyant and celebratory. Gospel rhythms and bright harmonies create an uplifting, joyful sound that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Who it's for

SSA choirs ranging from high school through adult community groups will find this piece accessible yet satisfying. Directors preparing festival repertoire or seeking a sacred work with genuine rhythmic drive will appreciate both its musical integrity and its proven track record.

How to get the most out of it

  • Establish the rubato opening with freedom and space; resist rushing into the gospel feel. Let the contrast between sections land clearly so the energy shift feels earned rather than jarring.
  • Lock the rhythm section (if using accompaniment) into the driving gospel groove early in rehearsal. This feel anchors everything else and keeps the piece from losing its infectious quality.
  • Balance the sopranos and altos so the melody line stays prominent without overwhelming the harmonic foundation, especially during the robust middle sections.
  • Mark dynamic shifts and articulation changes on every part before the first rehearsal. Gospel phrasing requires precision about where notes begin and end.

How to use it

Program this as a concert closer to send audiences out energized, or pair it with other spirituals and sacred works to build a thematic second half. The contrast between its opening and driving sections makes it equally effective as a standalone feature or part of a longer sacred set.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic precision in gospel style (syncopated rhythms, straight versus swung eighth notes)
  • Dynamic contrast and phrasing across contrasting sections
  • Blend and balance in three-part harmony
  • Vocal agility in moving between sustained notes and rhythmic passages

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