UPDATE: The two-part arrangement is now available from Walton Music Publishing. If you were interested in performing this piece and wanted a better fit for your ensemble, check this one out.
Mahalia Jackson is one of the best known gospel singers of all time. She played an important role during the Civil Rights Movement. She began her relationship with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1956 when she met him at the National Baptist Convention. She became one of Dr. King’s favorite singer and at his request, she made appearances at rallies and events, including the March on Washington in 1963. She performed right before Dr. King and even inspired Dr. King to “Tell ’em about that Dream”.
In this arrangement I tried to capture Mahalia Jackson’s 1950’s version in both style and flare. Jackson was interested in finding new styles to incorporate into traditional Gospel music. This version is scored for SSA and piano with some divisi in each part. I am currently completing a SA version which should be available soon. I am excited that so many ensembles have added it to their repertoire this year.
Love to hear your thoughts on the arrangement, leave a comment!