Simple Gifts

This creative arrangement of the well-known Shaker song passes the traditional tune to every voice part, using the others to support the buoyant melody. Scored for a mixed choir with congas, claves, and maracas, Mark’s setting opens with a bit of suspense that soon breaks into a bright a cappella feature. Some rhythmic augmentation provides a warm center before returning to the vibrant feel. Fans will note a few additional lyrics that celebrate “the gift to be loving, light, hopeful, and true.” A final flourish fans out from the only unison measure into a resounding G major chord.