HOW TO USE THIS PIECE

Simple Gifts

(click voicing to view and hear online)

Two-part     Three-part

Simple Gifts came to the conscience of American music educators when Aaron Copland chose to use it in a set of variations for his ballet and orchestral suite, Appalachian Spring, in 1944.  The lyrics (and this setting) epitomize the title -- simple.  The arrangement contains all three of Elder Brackett's verses written in unison to be sung by various sections of the choir (with a comfortable range compatible to all early adolescent changing voices).  The refrain is a modest two- or three-part contrapuntal presentation (the adolescent baritone, although present, is optional).  It provides a great musical and textual message for American youngsters.  Access the two-part and three-part variable voicing chart to see the  options that are available.  It is published in the three-part version only, which can be sung as a two-part setting, if desired.

 

Words by Shaker Elder Joseph Brackett, Jr., 1848

The music is a Shaker tradition (origin unknown)

Two- and Three-part Variable Voicing with Piano

Arranged by Gwyneth Cooper

CP Catalog #T978116

You may Order or from J.W. Pepper

USE KEYWORDS:  Simple Gifts   Gwyneth Cooper  Cambiata Press

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