Mixed choirs in schools and congregations will love this eight-movement work for Chanukah. Performable as separate movements or as one large-scale work, this highly original piece showcases a variety of styles and some memorable melodies (Kaplan's Maoz Tzur in particular is far more interesting than the "standard" one known by most people).
When a song becomes one of the most popular of a woman who has more popular songs than any other composer in her genre, it’s got to be published for choir. The message of unity and peace here certainly resonates with the Jewish people, but transcends all and works for any choir, any skill level, any age, any performance, any occasion. This very accessible setting keeps the lively spirit and gospel feel of the song intact, and we defy any audience member not to hum it as they leave the venue it was performed in.
Sha-alu was written in the summer of 2006, mostly at the North American Jewish Choral Festival. During that time, there were skirmishes and rocket firings on the Israel-Lebanon border, which lent even more urgency to the text from Psalm 122, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" - a feeling compellingly portrayed in this epic setting. The piece was premiered that December at Merkin Concert Hall in New York City by the Zamir Chorale. An orchestral accompaniment is available on rental (972095).
