The Jason Max Ferdinand Choral Series Friday, September 29, 2023
The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers is a project that Jason Max Ferdinand has thought about since 2001. He had the sound of the ensemble in his head, and had plans to make a debut the summer of 2020, but COVID19 forced a hiatus. In January of 2021, a creative opportunity was asked of Jason, and after some hesitation and contemplation, he decided to take a dive into the deep, feeling he would be a dupe not to heed the signs!
This malleable ensemble contains a wide range of professionals that range from award winning artists and singers, to lawyers and college professors. The ensemble is on a mission to promote black excellence through choral literature of contrasting styles, while advocating for inclusion, diversity, and unity within our various societies throughout the world.
New publications in the Jason Max Ferdinand Choral Series from Gentry Publications include:
Soon (A Choral Fantasy on Soon I Will Be Done) arr. John Stoddart, SATB divisi with piano
Here’s a choral fantasy on the traditional African American spiritual, “Soon I Will Be Done.” The grave Wagnerian opening sets the stage for the fiery main theme of the piece–a triplet feeling motif in the lower piano that continues under each chorus statement of the melody. The choir re-enters in the role of the “orchestra” in the second chorus with a haunting legato counter melody that leads up to the first verse. Each verse should have a Gospel/Stride feel with the choir, particularly the upper voices, switching to a more Gospel sound and rhythmic feel. The A sections should be performed with aggression and angst to contrast the calm legato middle section. That middle section is our musical prayer of hope that, like the sentiment of this Spiritual, will continue to live in our hearts despite the sometimes difficult realities of life.
This Land Is Your Land arr. Blake Morgan, SATB divisi a cappella with optional rhythm
You have never heard “This Land Is Your Land” quite like this one. The arranger, Blake Morgan said: “I felt it was fitting to illuminate one of Guthrie’s original verses, placed at the heart of this new rendition for the Jason Max Ferdinand Singers. We all have unique stories of what this land means for us, but like the songwriter himself, I believe it was made – and still can be made – for you and me.” The double-choir setting is accompanied by piano, percussion, and bass. This will be an audience favorite.
The Holy City arr. John Stoddart, SATB divisi with piano and optional organ and/or chamber orchestra
Offered for SATB divisi choir and piano with optional chamber orchestra and organ accompaniment, this powerful and majestic hymn arrangement by John Stoddard is brought to you as part of the Jason Max Ferdinand Choral Series. Notably performed by the Jason Max Ferdinand Singers, this fierce arrangement was masterfully designed to have a powerful effect on singer and listener alike.
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