Parting Glass

In 2020, we added a setting of the folk song The Parting Glass, based on The Wailin’ Jennys three-part arrangement. The Parting Glass is often sung in Scotland and Ireland at the end of an evening, when the last round has been poured and everyone is ready to head home. It has also been sung…

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We’re Back at the Willard December 20, 2021!

Like artistic groups around the world, it’s been two very long years since we’ve been able to get together and sing. Now we’re ready to get back to it, thanks to vaccines (and boosters) and innovative singers masks. We’re rehearsing some of our very favorite pieces to share with you. We hope you’ll join us!…

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Coventry Carol

Coventry Carol is an English carol dating back to the 16th century. It’s often set as a soft lullaby, as might be sung by Mary to her son as he falls asleep. The lyrics hint at the danger facing the holy family, but the carol ends with a soft, comforting lully-lullay. Sheet music for Coventry Carol…

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God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen

This carol is a bit of a mash-up, with lyrics from God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen and Here We Come a-Wassailing. Wassailers go door-to-door, singing carols and wishing good health and good fortune on their neighbors. In return, neighbors offer warm drinks and maybe a shiny coin or two. The setting is rousing. Like a…

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Zaspalo e Chelebiyche

Two young lovers lay down under the moon and the young man falls asleep. Can the girl wake him before the frosty dawn rises and the rooster crows? This haunting song comes from the Rhodope Mountain region of Bulgaria. Our four-voice setting brings the voices together in close harmony, with shimmering moments of dissonance. In…

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Star in the East

Star in the East is an American hymn from the Southern Harmony tradition, composed by William Walker in 1835 (though the tune itself may be older). It is strident and energetic, evoking images of fervent worshippers, stomping their feet as they raise their voices in song. Download Star in the East in 3 parts Photo:…

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Megruli Alilo

The Megruli Alilo is a joyous invitation to celebrate the birth of Christ.