TENOR/BASS CHOIR
Much of my choral and vocal music can be purchased through J.W. Pepper
The Road Not Taken (2025)
Carl Fischer
Virginia Choral Directors Association - Grade 3
TB choir
This setting of Robert Frost’s iconic poem captures life’s journey as a series of choices, symbolized by diverging paths. The piece begins with a tentative piano introduction, reflecting the hesitation at a fork in the road. Text painting highlights the word “diverged” as the voices shift from unison to a perfect fifth, while the lyrical melody offers opportunities for expressive phrasing. The poet’s choice of the “road less traveled” unfolds with a mix of reflection and resolve, affirming that this decision “has made all the difference.” This timeless message resonates through both the music and text, offering a poignant exploration of choice and consequence.
A Wanderer's Song (2025)
Carl Fischer
TTB choir
This adventurous tune for Tenor-Bass Choir captures the energy of an individual longing to leave their home and explore the world. This enthusiasm for exploration is represented musically by the pulsating, mixed-meter piano accompaniment, the syncopated rhythms of the vocal lines, and the chromatic but accessible harmonic progressions.
The Cold Winds Blow (2023)
Carl Fischer
J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice
Texas PML - Grade 3 Tenor-Bass Chorus
Virginia CDA Music List - Grade 2 (Treble)
Voicing Options:
TB choir
SA choir
Walter de la Mare's adventuring text is aptly set in this wonderful piece for tenor-bass choirs. A natural fit for any winter concert, the piano accompaniment brings the roll of the sea while the vocal lines bravely traverse the wintery wind and waves with confidence and strong harmonies that suit the story.
Black Riders Came from the Sea (2023)
Michael John Trotta Emerging Series/BriLee Press
Texas PML - Grade 3 Tenor-Bass Chorus
Voicing options:
TB choir
SA choir
Beginning with an ominous ostinato from the choir, "dum digga digga dum," this piece sets Stephen Crane's short but vivid poem describing the invasion of a fast-approaching enemy army. An engaging concert work for developing tenor-bass choirs that they're sure to like!
The Winter Owl (2020)
BriLee Press
J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice
Voicing Options:
SA choir
TB choir
3-part Mixed
This compelling setting of a William Shakespeare text vividly describes the winter season with its frigid temperatures and chilling wind. In contrast, the owl hooting merrily is illustrated with a change in meter and accented syncopated phrases. This minor-mode piece provides an interesting change of pace for winter concerts.
The Brook (2019)
BriLee Press
J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice
Texas PML - Grade 2 Tenor-Bass Chorus
Texas PML - Grade 2 Treble Chorus
Florida Vocal Association Music List (SA)
Voicing Options:
SA choir
TB choir
Like an ever-moving brook, chattering along, captured by the perpetual motion of the piano part, the use of the asymmetrical meter creates a constant sense of forward momentum in this delightful piece for treble choirs. Opportunities abound for literary connections, diction, tone, and meter with this text from a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson.
I Saw Three Ships (2018)
BriLee Press
J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice
Voicing Options:
SA choir
Three-part Mixed choir
SATB choir
TB choir
Jolly and jaunty, rhythmic and fun, this energetic setting of the traditional English carol is sure to be a holiday favorite for your choir. Accessible ranges and a supportive accompaniment make this a great choice for developing choirs. Add the optional frame drum and flute parts for a more stylistic interpretation.
In Umbra (2017)
Carl Fischer
Texas PML - Grade 3 Tenor-Bass Chorus
TTB choir
Bold, daring vocals exemplify the translation of the Latin text, "In the shade, therefore, we will fight." When coupled with the rhythmic, forceful piano accompaniment, male ensembles of all sizes will sound fantastic singing the accessible Latin text. Supportive piano and compelling text join forces in this exciting concert piece. Pronunciation guide provided.
Keep a-Goin' (2017)
BriLee Press
Florida Vocal Association Music List
TB choir
Tenor-Bass ensembles will enjoy learning this uplifting song full of fun rhythms, toe-tapping, and accessible ranges. With lyrics that encourage the singer to persevere no matter what challenges lie ahead, this soulful and energetic gospel-style piece will be a wonderful choice for your next concert.