Discovery Level 1-Enjoy a fresh treatment of this well-known African-American spiritual with its driving syncopated rhythms lively instrumental track and vocal call-and-responses. Written for three parts it may be sung in any combination ofvoices. The singers and audience will have great fun with this one! Discovery Level 1. Available separately: 3-Part Any Combination VoiceTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:50.

Tell Martha Not to Mourn-This setting of a popular African American spiritual uses the traditional text while the harmonic melodic and rhythmic elements are in more of a gospel style. The energetic refrain is presented first in unison and then inharmony while the verses are softer more reflective and hopeful. The final section builds in intensity with optional repeats to a rich and powerful fortissimo. An outstannding choice for concert and festival programming!Available voicings: TTB SSA. Duration: 3:00

Throughout their history African American spirituals have been sung in a variety of contexts from plantation fields to places of worship to concert halls. The genre has served the purpose of communicating messages of faith hope inspiration equality and freedom. This setting has special significance related to the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle for justice and equality.