For the Bird Singing Before Dawn

A setting of a hopeful, optimistic poem by Oregon Poet Laureate Kim Stafford, describing a bird who, in the darkest gloom of the night, begins singing in anticipation of the coming morning. Then, as the sun rises, the bird thinks to itself, "Hey! I made that happen! And oh, life is so fine!" The touching poem carries with it the uplifting message that in spite of the darkness that surrounds us, if we hold on to hope and keep singing, the morning will come. May be performed by a vocal quartet with piano or SATB chorus (no divisi) with piano. Suitable for college or strong high school ensemble. Contains two substantial a capella passages and a solo passage for SATB section leaders. Includes a short aleatoric passage for the full ensemble. Practice tracks available on request. Contact David A. Jones at dvd185@gmail.com.