2016 Reading Session Picks: Youth Choir

Last week at Music and Worship Arts Week, I joined numerous others (choir directors, singers, organists, etc.) at a series of choral reading sessions.

When I look for youth choir anthems, I look for relevant, meaningful text and beautiful, well-crafted music (here's an inside look at my process). I look for anthems that will inspire and encourage adolescent singers and connect with their faith.

Several publishers (Hope, Alfred, Beckenhorst, GIA, Hinshaw, Lorenz, etc.) were on-site to present the newest offerings from their catalogs and the choral clinicians for the week presented their own reading sessions of their favorite works.

As such, today's post includes a mix of old and new, classic and modern, traditional and more contemporary anthems. (See my reading session picks for adult choir here.) There's also a mix of voicings—everything from unison/2-part up to SATB, depending on the number of voices you have and the level of your group.

I hope you find something meaningful to and accessible for your choir!

*Disclosure: I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

2016 Reading Session Picks: Youth Choir

Walk in Light (Marrolli)
SAB Choir + Piano with Opt. Violin, Oboe, or Clarinet

A soothing, folk-like original melody perfect for Advent services. Peaceful and serene, the instrumental parts weave in the ancient DIVINUM MYSTERIUM tune, echoed by the choir near the end.

A Prayer for Humility (Patterson)
Unison or SATB Choir + Piano

I love the simplicity of this sweet prayer. Accessible part-writing and singable lines make it a beautiful addition to any worship service.

Roll Down Justice! (Miller)
SATB Choir + Piano with Opt. Congregation

New from Mark Miller, this anthem has a strong, powerful message - a prayer for restoration, healing, and justice incorporating the familiar hymn, "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing."

This anthem is part of a new songbook by Mark Miller, featuring 23 songs for congregational worship. Read more here.

My Life, My All (arr. Sorenson)
SAB or SATB Choir + Piano

Using Twila Paris' "Lamb of God" tune and texts by Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley ("When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" and "Amazing Love"), this anthem is a beautiful portrait of old and new. Perfect for Lent or the Easter season.

Walk in the Light (arr. Thomas)
Unison/2-Part or SATB Choir (flexible voicing) + Piano

A soulful, gospel arrangement of "Jesus, the Light of the World" incorporating text from "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." Exciting piano accompaniment and accessible choral parts!

I Put My Hope in You (Berry)
SATB Choir + Piano

A reflective, hopeful anthem incorporating text from "My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less." Memorable chorus with accessible rhythms and part-writing.

Be Thou My Vision (arr. Forrest)
2-Part Mixed, SSA, TTB, SATB Choir + Piano, Opt. Harp and Cello

A stunning arrangement of this beloved hymn available in a variety of voicings. Exposed choral parts, but beautiful harmonies and instrumental accompaniment throughout.

I Surrender All (arr. Johnson)
SATB Choir + Piano

A modern setting of an old hymn, this arrangement features a stunning piano accompaniment, rich harmonies, and an a cappella verse.

Psalm 139 (Pote)
SATB Choir + Piano

An original, timeless setting of Psalm 139 ("Lord, you have searched me and known me"). Accessible part-writing (it begins in 2-part) and relevant text make it perfect for youth choirs.

Creation of Peace (Miller)
SATB Choir + Piano

I love the message in this anthem: "Come build a land where sisters and brothers, anointed by God, can create peace..." Mark Miller's creative use of repetition makes this one easy to learn and easy to teach to the congregation!