About “In Meeting We Are Blessed”
This simple original a cappella composition gains a classic African vibe with the usage of a West African hand drum, the djembe. It was performed for the first time in Nairobi with the composer, Troy Robertson, performing in the choir for the meeting of the Florida Festival Singers and the Nairobi Chamber Chorus.
The Gatsnahos text draws its inspiration from John Donne and offers a universally relatable message of friendship and solidarity. “We are met together and in meeting we are blessed. Peace in coming and in going, peace in labor and in rest…”
The melody’s enchanting cadence make this arrangement an excellent choice for a processional and it would appeal to adult choirs and seasoned young adult choirs.
The SA/SSA/SSAA voicing is ideal for a festival featuring female choruses. And the St. Olaf College Viking Chorus has been honored by having this piece revoiced for male chorus in the TB/TTB/TTBB voicing. “In Meeting We Are Blessed” would be a fantastic composition for a gathering of choruses to link together a variety of ensembles.
Description
This piece was originally written to celebrate the meeting of the Nairobi Chamber Choir and the Festival Singers of Florida. Here, the work has been revoiced for male chorus and dedicated to the St. Olaf College Viking Chorus. It would make a great piece for a male chorus festival bringing a number of ensembles together. New to the Tesfa Wondemagegnehu Choral Series.
Additional information
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About The Composer, Troy Robertson
Dr. Troy D. Robertson, composer and arranger of “In Meeting We Are Blessed,” is the Director of Choirs at Tarleton State University, an active clinician and an avid composer with several new pieces of music in the works.
Dr. Robertson graduated with a Ph.D. from Florida State University, an M.M. from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a B.M.Ed. from Furman University. He holds lifetime membership in ACDA and is also a current participant in NCCO, TMEA, and TCDA.
Be sure to check Troy Robertson’s entire music catalog with Hinshaw Music. “Since You’re Not Here” is a really fun secular piece for female singers and “Soul’s Joy” is another great secular work that is not only a powerfully expressive work, but is also a fantastic teaching piece.
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