Abstract:
In the world of choral music, quality elementary-level literature is some of the hardest to find,
compose, and teach. Compositions for elementary choir are full of necessary considerations that
address range, lack of experience, content, music theory rules and guidelines, and simplicity in
performance; as a result, much of elementary choral literature is similar in style, mood, and
theme with very little variation from the typical “sound.” Using new poetry accessible for young
children, I compose four pieces in a set entitled “Sweet as Any Bird” that explores uncommon
genres, articulations, moods, and themes. The final product is a suite made up of four individual
movements: “Blue Heron,” “Hummingbirds,” “Cedar Waxwings,” and “Sweet as Any Bird.”
