Chorus

New Sacred works choral by Bob repertoire Chilcott
Photo credit: John Bellars
Birdland
A musical drama for
soloists, unison
voices, SATB chorus,
and instrumental
ensemble
With a story and texts by
Charles Bennett, this engaging
musical drama follows the
quest of Pip the Sparrow to
be accepted into the Dawn
Chorus. Along the way Pip
meets singing sensation Shamira
the Golden Nightingale and
discovers a great secret, causing the sparrow to at last understand the
power of having a song that is completely his own.
As well as the rich variety of solo roles, which feature spoken narration,
the work provides great dramatic potential for the unison and mixed
choruses, who play an integral role in the storytelling. The memorable,
eminently singable melodies are complemented by a characterful
orchestration.
Exploring themes of identity, inclusivity, and self-belief, this heart-warming
work is a testament to the unifying, healing power of music.
• Rehearsal pack with photocopiable unison part and lyrics
• Access to companion website with downloadable audio rehearsal
tracks as part of the rehearsal pack
• 10-part orchestral ensemble with parts available on hire/rental
• 45 minute work ranging in difficulty from Very Easy to
Moderately Difficult
Vocal score: 978-0-19-352300-5 | Publishing August 2020
Score and parts (rent): 978-0-19-354004-0
This year, Bob is looking forward to a number
of important performances of his latest
works. In May, Bob will be attending the
Sing for Peace Kyoto 2020 Chorus Festival,
accompanied by chamber choir Commotio
and NFM Wrocław Philharmonic Choir. His
new piece Make me a channel of your peace
will be premiered at the Festival. In June, both
Birdland and Lightwaves will be premiered; the former by hundreds
of school children in Norwich and Oxford (UK), and the latter at
PicFest in Oregon (USA).
Last autumn, Bob Chilcott took up a new role as Principal
Conductor of Birmingham University Singers. Choirs at the
University hold a national reputation as some of the finest in the
UK, and have worked with many distinguished conductors, including
Sir Simon Rattle, Marin Alsop, Edward Gardner, Simon Carrington,
Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, and John Wilson.
Circlesong
978-0-19-354043-9 | Publishing July 2020
Lightwaves
A work of epic proportions, this
is a complete life cycle based on
poetry of indigenous tribes of
North America. Each movement
focuses on a different stage of
life, from birth and childhood
through adulthood and middle
age to death. Tribal rhythmic
sections are contrasted with
tender, simple melodies and
glorious climactic moments for
full choir. A powerful work and
an exciting showpiece for large
youth or adult choirs.
Upper voices, SATB, and piano, or 2 pianos and percussion (4 players)
40 mins, Easy–Moderately Difficult
In another successful collaboration between
Bob Chilcott and poet
Charles Bennett, Lightwaves sees the exploration of light, in its many
forms and uses, from stars to electricity and photosynthesis. Both
piano and voices are used pictorially, in a musical setting that contrasts
moments of high energy and tranquility.
SATB and piano
15 mins, Easy
978-0-19-353530-5 | Publishing July 2020
To listen to recordings, visit www.oup.com/sheetmusic or search on Spotify
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