tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56415789107088714282023-06-30T05:26:26.671-05:00Composing my ThoughtsDale Witte – Composer, Choir Director, Christian Music EducatorAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.comBlogger398125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-90816253122306110862018-08-21T08:54:00.000-05:002018-08-21T08:54:09.069-05:002018-2019 WLA Theme Song "The Lord is My Rock"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XXM7mHQjckc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XXM7mHQjckc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LuYf2KVXC75idpHpBJXU-cbE12oTlBoy?usp=sharing">Download sheet music here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-56929491193642049662017-04-25T16:38:00.000-05:002017-04-25T16:38:28.327-05:00WLA Traveling Choir Auditions 2017-2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Docrkp6PjF8/WP_Bea_SGII/AAAAAAAABrY/ajwGB-o9X-0_7kbQjzPdmK-y-chbjXSYQCEw/s1600/TC%2B2016-2017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Docrkp6PjF8/WP_Bea_SGII/AAAAAAAABrY/ajwGB-o9X-0_7kbQjzPdmK-y-chbjXSYQCEw/s400/TC%2B2016-2017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's that time of the year again–audition season! WLA students who are interested in singing with the WLA Traveling Choir can find all audition materials and music on <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NNQueQ4T8mpYAXLkxckG5k0Jgsr5QavKeDAg1ItB9Yw/edit?usp=sharing">this Google Doc</a>. Sign up for a 15-minute audition on the choir room door. Any questions? Email Mr. Witte at dawitte (at) wlavikings.org.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-66320161108581616992016-08-17T09:57:00.001-05:002016-10-07T08:43:58.554-05:00The Lamb of God (2016-2017 WLA Theme Song)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ow3DYDDgO-k" width="560"></iframe>
Every year I write a theme song for <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/">Winnebago Lutheran Academy</a> students and the students of the <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/about-us/wla-association/">WLA Association</a> grade schools which is based on the theme passage of the school year. This year the theme passage is John 1:29 “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (NIV).<br />
<br />
This song tries to teach a couple of key concepts about this passage: (1) God demands blood to pay for sins, as he did throughout the Old Testament, requiring sacrifices from his chosen nation, Israel, for their sins; (2) John the Baptist knew that Jesus was the last sacrifice that God demanded to pay for the world's sins and he pointed everyone to the sinless Lamb of God, the perfect, atoning sacrifice; (3) Everyone in the world still sins every day and we desperately need Jesus' perfect sacrifice of himself to pay for our sins.<br />
<br />
Sheet music can be downloaded from <a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0BzBffLih2Z4RalZQNlh2RWxKNkk&usp=sharing">Google Drive</a>.
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6hLY0mmVKcU" width="560"></iframe>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-12177748297887251252016-05-24T07:59:00.002-05:002016-05-24T07:59:54.335-05:00WLA 2016 Spring Concert<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c6jYusFQBDs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-10182168020585851122016-05-23T13:35:00.002-05:002016-05-25T10:29:56.651-05:00AK A Cappella Auditions 2016-2017<h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCTqZE5d3oU/V0NN5Qj07wI/AAAAAAAABAk/wPVWfV8siEAx-I1fnm8mA2ZRRH09qxzZQCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-05-23%2Bat%2B1.36.39%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCTqZE5d3oU/V0NN5Qj07wI/AAAAAAAABAk/wPVWfV8siEAx-I1fnm8mA2ZRRH09qxzZQCLcB/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-05-23%2Bat%2B1.36.39%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
ACADEMY KIDS A CAPPELLA AUDITIONS<br />Monday 5/23/16 & Wednesday 5/25/16</h2>
<a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0BzBffLih2Z4RUzRvQk9EcGtYTGM&usp=sharing">Click here for all audition materials</a> (practice tracks and PDFs).<br />
<h3>
What to prepare for the audition:</h3>
<ol>
<li>Prepare a 30 second solo (unaccompanied) that shows off your voice. Do not sing anything classical (sing pop music, musical theater, songs from radio, etc.) Prepare like you are auditioning for American Idol.</li>
<li>If you are auditioning as a singer prepare at least TWO parts to the attached excerpts (“<i>Believe</i>” for the guys and "<i>Elastic Heart</i>” for the ladies). DO NOT prepare the solo part.</li>
<li>If you are auditioning to beatbox ONLY, prepare the vocal percussion part. Please add any other drum patterns/get creative so Mr. Witte can see what you can do. Listen to the practice tracks in the Google Drive to get an idea of the vocal percussion patterns and sounds.</li>
<li>If you are auditioning for both singing and beatboxing prepare at least ONE vocal part AND the vocal percussion part.</li>
<li>Be prepared to vocalize throughout your range if you have not already auditioned for Traveling Choir</li>
</ol>
<h3>
How to prepare for the audition:</h3>
Mr. Witte has created practice tracks with recordings of every voice part. To access these tracks and other resources, go to <a href="https://goo.gl/lJPAgT">https://goo.gl/lJPAgT</a> to access a Google Drive Folder with all the practice tracks. From there you can download the audio files to your own devices or save the folder to your own Google Drive account. Practice tracks and resources are there for you to use as much as you want. THE MORE YOU PRACTICE WITH THE TRACKS THE FASTER YOU WILL LEARN AND MORE CONFIDENT YOU WILL SING IN YOUR AUDITION.<br />
<br />
Monday, May 23, 2016 from 6-8 PM will be the rehearsal night for AK auditions. On this night procedures will be explained and music will be handed out and rehearsed.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday night, May 25, 2016 from 6-8 pm students will audition in groups of three or four. Students may be asked to sing more than once, so plan on being at WLA from 6-8 PM.<br />
<h3>
How you will audition:</h3>
You will be grouped with two or three other people for your audition – all of you will sing the excerpt in different combinations at least twice. You will be the only person on your voice part. Mr. Witte will make the audition schedule and groups. The sign up sheet will be on the choir room door. <br />
<h3>
Expectations of being in Academy Kids A Cappella:</h3>
Being a member of AK is a special opportunity and should be taken seriously. Mr. Witte is looking for the following qualities. Do your best to showcase these qualities inside and outside of your audition. Your attitude and work ethic in choir class or other music classes makes an impression on your overall eligibility for these ensembles!<br />
<br />
This a cappella group will be singing contemporary music that could include pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, dubstep, and many other genres. The group may include choreography and may require a purchase of specific outfit pieces.<br />
<br />
Therefore, as a member of the group, you will make it a priority, and:<br />
<ol>
<li>Attend all rehearsals (if by your <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kLGLqnZ5U5TnLmd54mPupsjz3KY9qBWqVtyoQaaMIkw/edit?usp=sharing">conflict schedule</a> you are not readily available for rehearsals that may be reason for your ineligibility to participate in AK)</li>
<li>Notify Mr. Witte if you will be late or missing for a rehearsal because of athletic practices, games, or other conflicts. Work is not an acceptable excuse for missing practice.</li>
<li>Participate in all performances and competitions (Choralfest, ICHSA, grade schools, community organizations, churches, etc. Some may require a travel or participation cost.)</li>
<li>Practice on your own outside of rehearsal</li>
<li>Come prepared to all rehearsals (arrive on time, with music learned)</li>
<li>Have a positive attitude</li>
<li>Take constructive criticism</li>
<li>Put the group before yourself</li>
<li>Be willing to try new things – take risks!</li>
<li>Be a leader</li>
<li>Listen and communicate well</li>
<li>Be ready to work hard</li>
</ol>
If all members of AK take these expectations to heart, the group will definitely be SUCCESSFUL and FUN! Please see Mr. Witte if you have any further questions or concerns.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-64638583101100832742016-04-21T14:14:00.001-05:002016-04-21T14:17:34.173-05:002016-2017 WLA Traveling Choir Auditions Announced<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2e/a3/0c/2ea30c4bd40a6b56f34be5dd289bc943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2e/a3/0c/2ea30c4bd40a6b56f34be5dd289bc943.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
Students of <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/">Winnebago Lutheran Academy</a> who have (1) sung in a WLA choir for one year, and (2) are a sophomore, junior, or senior, and (3) are <a href="http://wels.net/">WELS</a> members are eligible to audition for the 2016-2017 Traveling Choir. <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NNQueQ4T8mpYAXLkxckG5k0Jgsr5QavKeDAg1ItB9Yw/edit?usp=sharing">Click here to read the audition document on Google Docs.</a> In this document are links for all scores, representative Youtube performances, and accompaniment tracks (coming soon).<br />
<br />
Click below to download PDF files of all music and materials by voice:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RclRCNnViNUJFUlZ4NXQtZEg3WEEwS3BPRFh3/view?usp=sharing">Soprano Packet</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RV1JyTzhpVkdLc3lCLVlyOWtsVjVTM1FxMElB/view?usp=sharing">Alto Packet</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RY29oY0lQd3UwWmYtczRCRGpBZ2p5OWx3TnN3/view?usp=sharing">Tenor Packet</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RUjNia2NlcEVKWTV4WTFKUE03OVd5RTN1U3lN/view?usp=sharing">Bass Packet</a></div>
<ul>
</ul>
<div>
Auditions will be held May 2-6, 2016 in the WLA Choir Room. Students who are interested in auditioning should sign up for a 15-minute audition time on the door of the Choir Room.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-41530611371035397212015-12-25T14:17:00.000-06:002016-04-21T14:19:38.804-05:00Betelehemu - Origin, Translation, Performance PracticeThe song Betelehemu (Babatunde Olatunji, arr. Wendell Whalum) has earned its place in Christmas choral literature over the past two decades ever since Barrington Brooks arranged it for SATB choir and it was published by Lawson-Gould/Warner Bros. in 1994. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4v-GqNgii7Q" width="420"></iframe>
<br />
<h2 style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; margin-top: 12px; orphans: auto; overflow-y: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
</h2>
<h2 style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; margin-top: 12px; orphans: auto; overflow-y: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
Origins (via <a href="http://www.choralnet.org/view/150607">Choralnet.org</a> on November 23, 1999)</h2>
<div class="node ArchivePost" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; margin-top: 12px; orphans: auto; overflow-y: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Thanks to all who responded with information about <a href="http://www.aaregistry.org/historic_events/view/wendell-whalum-choral-music-legend">Wendell Whalum</a>'s</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
arrangement of the Nigerian Christmas song "Betelehemu." Though there are</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
still some sleuths out there working on leads, I think I have enough to piece</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
together the story.</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="http://africanmusic.org/artists/olatunji.html">Babatunde Olatunji</a> was a student at Atlanta's <a href="http://www.morehouse.edu/">Morehouse College</a> during the</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
mid-1950s (he came from Nigeria on a Rotary scholarship). Wendell Whalum was</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
the choir director, and Olatunji gave him "Betelehemu," which Whalum arranged</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
the way we still hear and perform it today. So, the piece came to Whalum</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
"Via" (by way of) Olatunji, as is printed in the arrangement (though I have</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
to say it's a bit confusing, since "Via" is printed to look like the</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
composer's first name).</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
What's not clear is whether this was an original piece by Olatunji or simply</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
a traditional song that Olatunji taught to or transcribed for Whalum. The</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
latter is probably true, though if I learn more about it, I'll post it to the</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
list.</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
If you'd like to know more about Olatunji, there's an entry in the website of</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
the Encyclopedia of African Music:</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="http://africanmusic.org/artists/olatunji.html" style="color: #003399; font-weight: bold; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://africanmusic.org/artists/olatunji.html</a></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Submitted by Frank Albinder, Music Director, Washington Men's Camerata (FSAlbinder(a)aol.com)</div>
<h2 style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
</h2>
<h2 style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Babatunde's Influence on Drumming:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> (from http://africanmusic.org/artists/olatunji.html)</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Baba was the single most important contributor to the popularization of African hand drumming in the United States. Baba created the popular Gun-Dun, Go-Do, Pa-Ta method of learning drum patterns in which these spoken sounds were able to help recall the sounds made on most hand drums -- with the Gun-Dun denoting the bass notes played with right and left hands; the Go-Do denoting the open tones; and the Pa-Ta denoting the slaps. This simple method revolutionized the learning rate for thousands of hand drum students in the West.</span></span><br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Baba's Beginner's Drumming Exercises: http://www.rhythmweb.com/baba.htm</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Translation (from http://www.musicanet.org/en/texts/00/00075en.htm)</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 16.8px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: #ffedc7; color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Translation of "Betelehemu"<br />(Olatunji, Via) - arr. Wendall Whalum</b></div>
<div style="background-color: #ffedc7; color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
We are glad that we have a Father to trust.<br />
We are glad that we have a Father to rely upon<br />
Where was Jesus born?<br />
Where was He born?<br />
Bethlehem, the city of wonder.<br />
That is where the Father was born for sure.<br />
Praise, praise, praise be to Him.<br />
We thank thee, we thank Thee, we thank Thee for this day,<br />
Gracious Father.<br />
Praise, praise, praise be to Thee,<br />
Merciful Father.</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-15307221269742449612015-12-16T13:29:00.005-06:002015-12-16T13:32:13.312-06:002015 WLA Christmas Concert CD<div id="fb-root">
</div>
<script>(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.3"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));</script><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/dalewitte/posts/10156267809915394" data-width="500">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/dalewitte/posts/10156267809915394">
*NEWS FLASH* For the first time in over 23 years, the WLA Christmas Concert will be recorded and made into a CD and...<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5641578910708871428#" role="button">Dale Witte</a> on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dalewitte/posts/10156267809915394">Wednesday, December 16, 2015</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<a href="http://legacyfundraiser.com/Album.aspx?AlbumID=6935" target="_blank">Click here to order the 2015 WLA Christmas Concert CD</a><br />
<br />
Track List:<br />
<br />
1<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Carol of the Child</i> by David Haas<br />
2<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>O Holy Night</i> by Adolphe Adam<br />
3<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Still is the Night </i>by Joseph M. Martin<br />
4<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Hurry Shepherds, Run!</i> by Douglas E. Wagner<br />
5<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Mary, Did You Know?</i> by Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene<br />
6<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Freedom is Coming</i> by Traditional South African<br />
7<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Gaudete arr. Jeff Beck<br />
8<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>In a Manger</i> by Zachary Unke<br />
9<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>O Magnum Mysterium</i> by Morten Lauridsen<br />
10<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Betelehemu</i> by Babatunde Olatunji and Wendell Whalum, arr. Barrington Brooks<br />
11<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Hallelujah Chorus</i> by G.F. Handel<br />
12<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>Prayers from Compline II</i> by Dale A. Witte<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07312595672080383832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-49290852967907752812015-09-09T15:39:00.000-05:002015-09-09T17:12:46.677-05:00Parent/Student Orientation Day 2015 Handouts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.wlavikings.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/WLA-Background-1280x726.jpg" height="113" width="200" /></a></div>
Now that most of WLA classes are on <a href="https://classroom.google.com/">Google Classroom</a>, the following links are provided Parent Orientation Night 2015.<br />
<br />
Block 2 & 3 - Music Technology: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tG6B40E8LbKH5t9j0XCUuEs4EEr4uvV7HnRfwXsskEk/edit?usp=sharing">Syllabus</a><br />
Block 4 - Traveling Choir: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fpVVy0fh5-Dnae_eXIxAg-myp0bGg_QGhjix9mGCeaA/edit?usp=sharing">Syllabus</a>, <span style="color: red;">*NEW in 2015*</span> <a href="http://www.welsfinearts.org/site/cpage.asp?sec_id=180011222&cpage_id=180036557">Choralfest Information</a><br />
Block 5 - Music Theory: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EsPRIG-ELfq40LxvjlVRlTVulQXVWZVpeGpQEGw0Pw4/edit?usp=sharing">Syllabus</a><br />
Block 7 - Concert Choir: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EfBxYin_YNvqBkdvF3b4J4GTq3rydyMY3Zsi7D9flM4/edit?usp=sharing">Syllabus</a><br />
<br />
In addition to the syllabi above, on the student's orientation day, this document, <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iK3om-wQYzvrGcvkjI2wR6iMfiE1Y_qtD59vvyk7daY/edit?usp=sharing">Orientation Day 2015 - Handouts</a>, was given out to each student, summarizing the syllabus and procedures for each class I teach.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/for-wla-families/calendars/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="44" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cZv3EqZgrFY/VfCenHgBPyI/AAAAAAAANjc/XsnoO2GtdeY/s200/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-09-09%2Bat%2B4.02.54%2BPM.png" width="200" /></a>For the <a href="https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=dawitte%40wlavikings.org&ctz=America/Chicago">WLA Fine Arts Calendar</a>, subscribe on <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/for-wla-families/calendars/">WLA's calendar page</a> by clicking on the Google Calendar button at the bottom right corner of the calendar.<br />
<br />
You may "Like" the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WLATravelingChoir">WLA Traveling Choir Facebook page</a> and follow them on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/TCWLA">@TCWLA</a>. <br />
<br />
Sign up for Traveling Choir Remind alerts by texting @dwitt to 81010 on your mobile phone. You can also sign up for email alerts. <a href="http://pdfs.remind.com/invite?alternate_phone_number=%28608%29+467-4065&class_code=dwitt&class_name=Traveling+Choir&phone_number=81010&sms_supported=true&user_signature=D.+Witte">Download the Remind instructions here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-65756693019058943892015-08-09T16:22:00.001-05:002015-08-09T16:22:48.049-05:00"I Believe" - WLA Theme Song 2015-2016<a href="https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0BzBffLih2Z4Rfjc5WUlwck4wM3dTMEhFcEtONkVHZkNIWTJSYWhDWEVGZVA3QjVlb1oxY2M&usp=sharing">Click here for PDF scores and and mp3 recording.</a><br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/">WLA</a> theme passage for the 2015-2016 school year is from <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201:8">Acts 1:8</a> "You will be my witnesses." As I've been thinking about that passage and pondering how this year's theme song will go, one thing has stood out for me: the verb tense. Jesus was speaking to his disciples over 2000 years ago as he was about to ascend into heaven. He told his disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit to come on them in Jerusalem so that they would be his witnesses after He was gone. For them, all the action was going to be in the future: the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the chance to speak of Jesus to both Jews and Gentiles.<br />
<br />
But are we waiting to be Jesus' witnesses too? Will we only be God's witnesses in the future?<br />
<br />
I contend that what was in the future for Jesus' disciples is in the present for us Christians: we are Jesus' witnesses right now. We who have been baptized have received the same Holy Spirit's power and faith that the disciples were given. Our Great Commission to go into the world, baptizing and preaching in God's name, has been with us as long as we've been alive. I wanted to impress this fact on the WLA high school students by changing the tense of the verb to the present ("we are His witnesses") in this year's theme song. <br />
<br />
I also have been pondering <i>how</i> we are witnesses for Jesus. What does a witness do at an accident scene? They tell the authorities what they have seen and heard. They tell the truth. They say what they know. How do we witness for Christ? We say who he is. We say what he has done. We state the facts clearly from God's Word and let his Word be the authority for our witness.<br />
<br />
So it was with the lyrics for this year's theme song. I tried in the refrain to plainly state who God is: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each verse is a very simple exposition on the chief act of each person of the Trinity. The bridge is the comforting passage from <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+10%3A32&version=NIV">Matthew 10:32</a> where Jesus tells us that if we witness for him, he will be our witness to his heavenly father that we have been his witnesses on earth.<br />
<br />
May this year's theme song be a blessing to anyone who sings it or hears it. I give my permission for it to be used without copyright restriction in any of the churches of the WLA Association. Any other people who would like to use it, I ask that you <a href="mailto:dawitte@wlavikings.org">email me</a> to ask permission to use it.<br />
<br />
Thank you and God's blessings!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-72664711754023642942015-05-17T14:41:00.001-05:002015-05-17T14:47:57.829-05:00WLA Spring Concert 2015The 2015 WLA Spring Concert will go live at 7:00 PM CDT (GMT-5) Sunday, May 17, 2015. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Wtebd6y4ISR3JiRE1BZFVkM28/view?usp=sharing">Click here for the concert program.</a><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="no" height="302" src="http://www.ustream.tv/embed/16736798?wmode=direct" style="border: 0 none transparent;" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="480"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://www.ustream.tv/" style="background: #ffffff; color: black; display: block; font-size: 10px; font-weight: normal; padding: 2px 0px 4px; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; width: 400px;" target="_blank">Live streaming video by Ustream</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-40346152451749173092015-04-27T11:12:00.003-05:002015-04-27T11:12:51.950-05:00Favorite TC Pieces 2014-2015<a href="http://goo.gl/forms/3ADSXqhmDg">Click here</a> to record your favoritesUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-16120428650689521082015-04-21T14:25:00.000-05:002015-04-22T10:59:05.696-05:002015 State Finalist's Recital<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMmPp70FISQ/SL6d935x-BI/AAAAAAAAC9g/MHoXb42ivjo/s1600/WSMA%2Blogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMmPp70FISQ/SL6d935x-BI/AAAAAAAAC9g/MHoXb42ivjo/s1600/WSMA%2Blogo.png" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
Everyone is invited to the State Finalist's Recital, Wednesday, April 22, 2015 night at 6 PM in the WLA Choir Room. Sixteen events are going to State Solo Ensemble this Saturday at <a href="http://wsmamusic.org/festivals/state/oshkosh.html">UW-Oshkosh</a> and <a href="http://wsmamusic.org/festivals/state/platteville.html">UW-Platteville</a> by WLA students and this recital is your only chance to hear them all in one location! In addition, the Academy Kids will perform four a cappella pieces throughout the recital that they will be also be performing this Friday at the reception for the <a href="http://www.morainepark.edu/about-mptc/foundation/2015-gourmet-dinner/">MPTC Culinary Arts program’s 2015 Gourmet Dinner</a>. Come enjoy a night of good music and share in the musical talents given by God to our students!</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RTzg5M21WRFNaMkk/view?usp=sharing">Click here for the 2015 recital program</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-70439346350698789712015-04-18T18:09:00.000-05:002015-04-28T08:05:01.316-05:00State Solo Ensemble Schedules 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/a/wlavikings.org/spreadsheets/d/1330KcRfyCu6_ZFyXoFRy3bhtXJCZTQvxgNXMrfo8Xyg/edit?usp=docslist_api">Click here for WLA's 2015 WSMA State results</a> from UW-Oshkosh and UW-Parkside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the first time ever, WLA has students at two different state sites:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brjI0Fz58GE/VTLiwdP91qI/AAAAAAAANc8/cKY5ZzmcgzM/s1600/WLA%2BState%2BSolo%2BEnsemble%2BSchedule%2B2015.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brjI0Fz58GE/VTLiwdP91qI/AAAAAAAANc8/cKY5ZzmcgzM/s1600/WLA%2BState%2BSolo%2BEnsemble%2BSchedule%2B2015.png" height="175" width="400" /></a></div>
More information about the <a href="http://www.wsmamusic.org/festivals/state/oshkosh.html">UW-Oshksoh State site can be found here.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gt2WYVjd-MA/VTLjY68h-fI/AAAAAAAANdE/fIv_Q7Peuyw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-04-18%2Bat%2B6.05.44%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gt2WYVjd-MA/VTLjY68h-fI/AAAAAAAANdE/fIv_Q7Peuyw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-04-18%2Bat%2B6.05.44%2BPM.png" height="113" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
More information about the <a href="http://www.wsmamusic.org/festivals/state/platteville.html">UW-Platteville State site can be found here.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-7241373383754810032015-04-14T09:03:00.003-05:002015-04-22T10:49:15.561-05:00WLA Traveling Choir 2015-2016 Audition MaterialsStudents of Winnebago Lutheran Academy who desire to sing with WLA Traveling Choir in the 2015-2016 school year must audition between April 21-23 and Apr. 27-May 1, 2015. To be eligible for WLA's Traveling Choir, students must have sung in a WLA choir for one year or have the consent of Mr. Witte.<br />
<br />
1. <a href="https://www.google.com/calendar/selfsched?sstoken=UUlncGRRa1lqZjdCfGRlZmF1bHR8NWM3NjEyYjE2MmYzYzJkYmQ1ZTQ1MTI0NGM5OGQ4MTg">Click here to sign up for a 15-minute audition time slot on Google Calendar.</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Choose any available time slot which works for your schedule.</li>
<li>Type your name into the "What" field, replacing what I have typed there.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--R-HSv-lckM/U07bCqgnbSI/AAAAAAAAL9M/E6svHpt2KFc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-16+at+2.33.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--R-HSv-lckM/U07bCqgnbSI/AAAAAAAAL9M/E6svHpt2KFc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-16+at+2.33.07+PM.png" height="127" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>If you need to change or delete your appointment time, go to your own Google calendar (click on the Rubic's cube button on the top right corner of the <a href="http://www.google.com/">www.google.com</a> page and choose "Calendar"). Go to the day and date that you reserved and click on your appointment on your calendar. Look for "Going?" on the bottom of the popup and click on "Delete". Then go back to the appointment link in #1 above and choose a different time slot.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wm9k2e8X8pw/U07bo9P7VyI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/S3_oASOEQpI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-16+at+2.35.41+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wm9k2e8X8pw/U07bo9P7VyI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/S3_oASOEQpI/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-16+at+2.35.41+PM.png" height="156" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
2. <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VGv59KzIsFXr1ynBb-LueRfEzWf2Ikv19cUv8dv97kc/edit?usp=sharing">Click to see the 2015-2016 audition requirements (Google Doc).</a><br />
<br />
3. Click to download <b><i>America the Beautiful</i>:</b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://bit.ly/1iVjRYG">Soprano 1 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/b9d9f9ee1d0fa88e1196464e29bc958f4300c8db">Soprano 1 (Noteflight)</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/P3Dgxd">Soprano 2 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/a749c3231232137f7eef20bd525745f06e831bb1">Soprano 2 (Noteflight)</a> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://bit.ly/1l3HKyH">Alto 1 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c7bb901dc3619dcde0015c1fd64d78c81441aa06">Alto 1 (Noteflight)</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1euT73W">Alto 2 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/2dce046a15adf2c716cfd29f92f2d4099f3982a4">Alto 2 (Noteflight)</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://bit.ly/1qYKSNW">Tenor 1 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/a39633176b0c898444fe75a97506d243c8023c38">Tenor 1 (Noteflight)</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1p7AZSo">Tenor 2 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/06a62542cc475433a68d52a7a1ee6aa7090f78d4">Tenor 2 (Noteflight)</a> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://bit.ly/1euTuvx">Bass 1 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/29bd80bebb744dc1bea49405b0c9311bbe195cd3">Bass 1 (Noteflight)</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1noI7FD">Bass 2 (PDF)</a> | <a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/9843ffc09497e0c0931a6d1670c0c4e1782c7133">Bass 2 (Noteflight)</a></blockquote>
<br />
4. <b>Audition piece:</b> <i>God So Loved the World</i> (from "The Crucifixion") by John Stainer<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://bit.ly/1hIADxR">(Choral Score PDF) "God So Loved the World" (from "The Crucifixion") by John Stainer.</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="https://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/53e53d84a544310ee7071ccd5d5199423de82189" style="text-align: center;">(Noteflight Score) "God So Loved the World" (from "The Crucifixion") by John Stainer</a></blockquote>
<br />
5. <b>Sightreading:</b> At the audition you’ll be asked to sight sing three short exercises (rhythm, major, minor) to help determine your level of musicianship. You may use <a href="https://youtu.be/_ZOk-XgGbfA">solfege</a> (do, re, mi) or “la” but solfege is prefered. <a href="https://youtu.be/SW133P2ZgxQ">Takadimi</a> syllables may be used for the rhythm exercise. Sight reading examples may be found at <a href="http://in-acda.org/allstate/honor/allstate-sightreading.html">Indiana Choral Directors Association - All-State Honor Choir Sight Reading Examples</a><br />
<br />
6. Fill out the following form before your audition:<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JVCdbcM7kasqsJQ2fC1q_rHMNXyegp8C74jgmhz2sLk/viewform?embedded=true" width="550">Loading...</iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-12304019834060663872015-04-12T12:13:00.003-05:002015-04-12T12:13:40.620-05:00WLA Easter Hymnfest Livestream - April 12, 2015, 2 PM CDT (GMT/UMC -5)<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4ReHo2and6UHdrNWs/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here for the WLA Easter Hymnfest 2015 Concert Program</a><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="no" height="302" src="http://www.ustream.tv/embed/16736798?wmode=direct" style="border: 0 none transparent;" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="480"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://www.ustream.tv/" style="background: #ffffff; color: black; display: block; font-size: 10px; font-weight: normal; padding: 2px 0px 4px; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; width: 400px;" target="_blank">Live streaming video by Ustream</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-62552080166223876332015-02-09T11:28:00.001-06:002015-02-09T11:51:43.204-06:00Vote for WSMA Class A Concert Festival SelectionsThe Flyway District Concert Festival is March 25, 2015. <br />
<br />
1. View the Youtube Playlist: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6nepKlS6DyfKTDzm6uAu3TV1nCMZQS8k" target="_blank">WSMA Event 1000 - A Cappella Standard Repertoire</a><br />
2. Consult the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RRDdLSkZXamxwTVk/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">2014-2015 WSMA Festival Music List (Event 1000)</a><br />
3. Vote below for your favorite piece from this list by Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015.
<script src="http://www.polleverywhere.com/multiple_choice_polls/FnPLj3QBByqmGVX/web.js?height=250&results_count_format=percent&width=300"></script>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-24808625436041641252014-10-05T20:17:00.001-05:002014-10-05T20:30:01.813-05:00WLA Homecoming Skit Night 2014With all the live streaming of WLA concerts and events now being embedding into WLA's website (look for the <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/inner_cal.iml/home/videos" target="_blank">Videos</a> link on the right side of the home page), I haven't been posting streams on my blog for a couple of WLA events now. But I have gotten a number of questions about how to see the 2014 Homecoming Skit Night video, probably because it was on a Thursday this year instead of normally being on a Friday. So, here are the video streams from Skit Night 2014. There are two of them because, apparently, internet dropped during the live stream. I'm not sure if that's Ustream's problem or WLA's. That's what we get for trying to do live streaming for free, I suppose. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RQmNIRkdDTktrMW5tNHV1bTlWcVdjWEp5aVQw/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here for the 2014 Skit Night Program.</a><br />
Part 1
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="302" scrolling="no" src="http://www.ustream.tv/embed/recorded/53496961?v=3&wmode=direct" style="border: 0px none transparent;" width="480"> </iframe>
Part 2
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="302" scrolling="no" src="http://www.ustream.tv/embed/recorded/53498844?v=3&wmode=direct" style="border: 0px none transparent;" width="480"> </iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-82616569205662373022014-09-11T10:20:00.000-05:002015-02-09T09:12:32.509-06:00Auditioning to Sing the National Anthem for Professional Sports Teams<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/189778956&color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The WLA Traveling Choir has been singing a new SATB arrangement of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vwxv-EZpb7U">Gaither Vocal Band setting of the Star-Spangled Banner</a> this school year. After one of our recent performances for the <a href="http://www.dobogaimemorialrun.com/">6th Annual Derek Dobogai Memorial Run/Walk,</a> an audience member pulled me aside and said,"I go to about 17 or 18 Brewers games a year. The version your choir sang today was way better than anyone I have heard sing for the Brewers. You should audition to sing for the Brewers."<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have had this same encouragement from other parents in the past, so it's high time we did it. So how does one audition? Here is the most current information I have found for Wisconsin teams:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com/mil/fan_forum/fan_faqs.jsp">Milwaukee Brewers | Fan FAQs</a></div>
<div>
<h5 style="background: url(http://milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com/mil/images/fan_forum/y2009/bg_subtitle.gif) repeat-x rgb(255, 255, 255); color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px 0px; padding: 8px; text-transform: uppercase;">
I AM INTERESTED IN SINGING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM PRIOR TO A BREWERS GAME. HOW DO I APPLY?</h5>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/Rjbz6TiVBmZWGtSd_L69PISihoumjysHlpStg49uOYgOEGr4S4HgzOrQu7hxMQ-MAn0JLtxo4uG5xouyzuHqXUl7vTelvNo9PArcKAmjGTXyZ-Pl" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://brewersfarmreport.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/brewers.gif" height="121" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To apply to sing the anthem prior to a Brewers game, please send in an audition of the anthem sung a cappella, <b>90 seconds or less</b>, plus a performance history (if any) to:</span></div>
<ul style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 4px 0px;">
<li style="list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 2px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club</span></li>
<li style="list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 2px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Attn: Aleta Mercer</span></li>
<li style="list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 2px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">One Brewers Way</span></li>
<li style="list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 2px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Milwaukee, WI 53214</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Audition CDs are accepted in the off-season, <b>between November 1 and February 14 each year</b>.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.3em; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><a href="http://www.nba.com/bucks/entertainment/anthem">Milwaukee Bucks | National Anthem Auditions</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/20/Milwaukee_Bucks.svg/749px-Milwaukee_Bucks.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/20/Milwaukee_Bucks.svg/749px-Milwaukee_Bucks.svg.png" height="200" width="146" /></a></div>
National Anthem Auditions – Wednesday, September 17th</div>
<br />
<b>Registration begins at 7:00am </b>Doors close at 7:00P
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
BMO Harris Bradley Center </div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Entrance: Potawatomi Gate – 4th & Highland</li>
<li>Perform in the order you enter (each candidate will receive a number)</li>
<li>Open to all ages - 18 and under need to be accompanied by a legal guardian</li>
<li>Encouraged to bring a performance resume but not mandatory</li>
<li>Must find your own parking</li>
<li>The audition will be open to the public and will require each individual / group to sing the entire song to be considered.</li>
</ul>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 8px; padding: 0px;">
<b>What do I need to bring to auditions? </b>Driver’s License, or other form of photo identification<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://nfl.packers.com/gameday/national-anthem-request/">Green Bay Packers | National Anthem Requests</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sports-logos-screensavers.com/user/Green_Bay_Packers3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sports-logos-screensavers.com/user/Green_Bay_Packers3.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
The Green Bay Packers thank you for your interest in singing the National Anthem at Lambeau Field on gameday. As the Packers collect and review your request to sing the national anthem, please note that many of our games are themed, have special requirements, and have been booked well in advance. <b>In order for your request to be considered, please submit the following information:</b> (online form at <a href="http://nfl.packers.com/gameday/national-anthem-request/">Packers.com</a>)<br />
<br />
Please provide a URL to any audio/video clips of your performances. If you are sending a hard copy, please indicate. [Send performance samples] by e-mail to gameentertainment@packers.com or mail hard copy information/samples to: Gameday Entertainment P.O. Box 10628, Green Bay, WI 54307<br />
<br />
Please note that the Packers will keep all items they receive by mail. Samples of work will not be returned. We look forward to your request.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.uwbadgers.com/genrel/092312aab.html">UW Athletics seeks National Anthem performers</a> (Sept. 23, 2012)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/35/914/full/2730.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/35/914/full/2730.png" height="200" width="154" /></a></div>
Badgers looking for talented performers to sing the National Anthem. Would you like to sing the National Anthem at a UW sporting event?<br />
<br />
The University of Wisconsin Athletic Department is looking for performers to sing the National Anthem at Badger sporting events this season.<br />
<br />
The search committee is looking for a variety of <b>Madison-area</b> solo artists, duets, groups, etc. with and without instruments to perform. <b>Please note that due to NCAA rules, high school performers/groups cannot be considered. </b> Those interested in participating should submit their audition materials (link to performance or performance on CD/DVD) including contact information to ata@athletics.wisc.edu or via mail to: Wisconsin Athletics Attn: National Anthem Search Marketing Office 1440 Monroe Street Madison, WI 53711 NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE After the selection committee has reviewed all performances, individuals will be contacted to schedule a performance at a game. Deadline for receipt of audition materials is Friday, Oct. 12 (2012) at 5 p.m.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.milb.com/content/page.jsp?ymd=20070123&content_id=41061554&sid=t572&vkey=team1">Wisconsin Timber Rattlers | National Anthem FAQs</a><br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fbrewersfarmreport.files.wordpress.com%2F2013%2F08%2Fbrewers.gif&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/Rjbz6TiVBmZWGtSd_L69PISihoumjysHlpStg49uOYgOEGr4S4HgzOrQu7hxMQ-MAn0JLtxo4uG5xouyzuHqXUl7vTelvNo9PArcKAmjGTXyZ-Pl" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/Rjbz6TiVBmZWGtSd_L69PISihoumjysHlpStg49uOYgOEGr4S4HgzOrQu7hxMQ-MAn0JLtxo4uG5xouyzuHqXUl7vTelvNo9PArcKAmjGTXyZ-Pl" with "https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/proxy/Rjbz6TiVBmZWGtSd_L69PISihoumjysHlpStg49uOYgOEGr4S4HgzOrQu7hxMQ-MAn0JLtxo4uG5xouyzuHqXUl7vTelvNo9PArcKAmjGTXyZ-Pl" -->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-9860130273719465982014-09-03T13:48:00.002-05:002014-09-03T13:48:23.901-05:00WSMA Festival Music Lists 2014-2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMmPp70FISQ/SL6d935x-BI/AAAAAAAAC9g/MHoXb42ivjo/s1600/WSMA%2Blogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMmPp70FISQ/SL6d935x-BI/AAAAAAAAC9g/MHoXb42ivjo/s1600/WSMA%2Blogo.png" /></a></div>
On the first day of each school year, the <a href="http://www.wsmamusic.org/">Wisconsin State Music Association</a> releases its new Festival Music List for the current school year. This list is important for all music students who are preparing for Solo Ensemble (Vocal/Piano is the last Saturday in Feb. 2015 at Omro HS, Instrumental/Piano is the first Saturday in March at Omro HS) and Concert Festivals (Horace Mann HS, North FDL is hosting the Large Group Choir Concert Festival on Wednesday, March 25, 2015).<br />
<br />
See Mr. Witte if you have any other questions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RRDdLSkZXamxwTVk/edit?usp=sharing">1000s – Vocal</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RejBKeGItaFBxZDA/edit?usp=sharing">2000s – Orchestra</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RTHc0QlY1alJsOVE/edit?usp=sharing">3000s – Band/Woodwind</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RY3NsZGp2OW4yaVU/edit?usp=sharing">4000s – Brass</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RNmZmb1lWWWZnZEU/edit?usp=sharing">5000s – Percussion</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RMkJwMEplaWNwSnc/edit?usp=sharing">6000s – Jazz/Show Choir/Alt. Strings</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RdElOaERLb3MtU0k/edit?usp=sharing">7000s – Piano</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RdFVSdHVERGhrd2s/edit?usp=sharing">8000s – Handbell/Guitar</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RdGJNalByUXNLY28/edit?usp=sharing">9000s – Misc./Ethnic</a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-40230346258678364832014-09-01T15:19:00.000-05:002014-09-01T16:17:08.582-05:00I Love My Love One of the songs that the WLA Traveling Choir will be singing for the WLA Fall Concert on October 19, 2014 is a setting of the Cornish folksong, <i>I Love My Love</i> (1916) by Gustav Holst. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/01gm3opKz4I?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b>
<b>Lyrics</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Abroad as I was walking, one evening in the spring,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I heard a maid in Bedlam so sweetly for to sing;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Her chains she rattled with her hands, and thus replied she:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"I love my love because I know my love loves me! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>O cruel were his parents who sent my love to sea,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And cruel was the ship that bore my love from me;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Yet I love his parents since they're his although they've ruined me:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I love my love because I know my love loves me! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With straw I'll weave a garland, I'll weave it very fine;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With roses, lilies, daisies, I'll mix the eglantine;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And I'll present it to my love when he returns from sea.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>For I love my love, because I know my love loves me."</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Just as she sat there weeping, her love he came on land. </i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Then hearing she was in Bedlam, he ran straight out of hand.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>He flew into her snow-white arms, and thus replied he:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"I love my love, because I know my love loves me." </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She said: "My love don't frighten me; Are you my love or no?"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"O yes, my dearest Nancy, I am your love, also</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I am return'd to make amends for all your injury;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I love my love because I know my love loves me."</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>So now these two are married, and happy may they be</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Like turtle doves together in love and unity.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All pretty maids with patience wait that have got loves at sea;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I love my love because I know my love loves me. </i></div>
<br />
<b>Sheet Music</b><br />
<a href="http://imslp.org/wiki/6_Choral_Folksongs,_Op.36_(Holst,_Gustav)">6 Choral Folksongs, Op.36</a> (Holst, Gustav) – IMSLP Petrucci Music Library (www.imslp.org)<br />
No. 5 <a href="http://www.cpdl.org/wiki/index.php/I_love_my_love_(Gustav_Holst)"><i>I Love My Love</i> (Gustav Holst)</a> – Choral Public Domain Library (www.cpdl.org)<br />
<br />
<b>Part Predominant Recordings</b><br />
<a href="http://johnfletchermusic.me.uk/HolstG_I_love_my_love.php">MIDI, MP3 & Scorch Files</a> – John Fletcher Music<br />
<br />
<b>History</b><br />
<a href="http://www.sflc.org/concerts/programs/MusicExpresses4web.pdf">Program Notes and Short Biography</a>–San Francisco Lyric Chorus<br />
<br />
<b>Links</b><br />
<a href="http://www.gustavholst.info/">The Gustav Holst Website</a> by Kenric Taylor<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gustav_Holst">Gustav Holst</a> – Wikipedia<br />
<a href="http://www.holstmuseum.org.uk/index.htm">Holst Birthplace Museum</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bethlem_Royal_Hospital">Bedlam (Bethlem Royal Hospital)</a> – Wikipedia<br />
<br />
<b>Other Arrangements </b><br />
Gustav Holst's own <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Suite_in_F_for_Military_Band">Second Suite in F</a></i>, Movement 2 (Song without Words) (1911)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PLpd6CMapeA?rel=0" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-75111447346262645482014-08-18T15:55:00.001-05:002014-08-18T15:55:25.671-05:00WLA Orientation Day 2014 HandoutsWelcome back! Here are Mr. Witte's handouts from the August 18-19 WLA Orientation Days:<br />
<br />
Concert Choir - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RX0ZqbmM4OUJ6ckk/edit?usp=sharing">Handout</a> | <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EfBxYin_YNvqBkdvF3b4J4GTq3rydyMY3Zsi7D9flM4/edit?usp=sharing">2014-15 Syllabus</a><br />
Music Technology - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RaG9TODRiYzZUVEU/edit?usp=sharing">Handout</a> | <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tG6B40E8LbKH5t9j0XCUuEs4EEr4uvV7HnRfwXsskEk/edit?usp=sharing">2014-15 Syllabus</a><br />
Music Theory - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4ROU45bnZGZmxLaGs/edit?usp=sharing">Handout</a> |<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EsPRIG-ELfq40LxvjlVRlTVulQXVWZVpeGpQEGw0Pw4/edit?usp=sharing"> 2014-15 Syllabus</a><br />
Traveling Choir - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RYm5wYVBYMmxld2M/edit?usp=sharing">Handout</a> | <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fpVVy0fh5-Dnae_eXIxAg-myp0bGg_QGhjix9mGCeaA/edit?usp=sharing">2014-15 Syllabus</a><br />
Study Hall - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RVW4yRDRDTm5Ua0E/edit?usp=sharing">Handout</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-68762684604039539492014-08-10T18:40:00.002-05:002018-07-30T10:22:39.946-05:00We Preach Christ CrucifiedThis year's theme passage in the <a href="http://www.wlavikings.org/inner.iml/about/wla_association">Winnebago Lutheran Academy Association</a> is <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+1%3A23&version=NIV">1 Corinthians 1:23a</a>: "We preach Christ crucified." Each year I challenge myself to compose a song based on the theme passage as a way of embedding the passage in the hearts and memories of our students.<br />
<br />
Downloads:<br />
Sheet Music: <i>We Preach Christ Crucified</i> (Dale A. Witte) – <b>To be published by NPH in Oct. 2018!</b><br />
Bulletin Inserts: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RU1k1Mk9UY2g0bEU/edit?usp=sharing">Letter half sheet (5.5" x 8.5")</a> | <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzBffLih2Z4RYmUxNjFOM3JtZjQ/edit?usp=sharing">Legal half sheet (7" x 8.5")</a><br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/playlists/46705348&color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
Some years, I use the passages before and after the theme passage as lyrics for either the verse or refrain. This year, I decided to center in on developing the meaning of "We preach Christ crucified." For the person who doesn't know what that passage means, I explain that the cross isn't supposed to be a frightening tool of torture and execution. When the believer looks at the cross of Christ, they see hope, salvation, and a victory won, both for Jesus–the Son of God and Son of Man–and for the believer in Jesus.<br />
<br />
I pray that this year's theme song, like all the others that I've written, serves to help explain God's Word and to firmly fix it in our minds and hearts. In the coming weeks, I hope to make a recording of the WLA student body singing the theme song and post it on this blog. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-55867596566835359652014-07-29T09:27:00.001-05:002014-08-01T09:56:26.918-05:00Jerusalem the Golden | THAXTED<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rHngp1hOaso?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
The 7th triennial <a href="http://www.wels.net/worship/2014-national-worship-conference">WELS National Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts</a> was just held this past week, July 22-25, 2014, at Carthage College, Kenosha, WI. What a full week of worship, recitals, and workshops on every topic related to current worship in the WELS! I wish there was a way to experience all of the offerings (maybe the <a href="http://www.wels.net/worship/2014-national-worship-conference">WELS Commission on Worship</a> will post not only handouts but videos of the presentations). I was responsible for two things at this conference: the <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1B5_1RsEfN29pgDURsfyzkH5Yt9GW6berQhy-vXouigg/edit?usp=sharing">piano music for worship reading session</a> (42 pieces in 75 minutes) and I was given the commission to arrange the closing hymn of the closing service, the hymn that has closed every WELS Worship Conference since 1996: <i><a href="http://www.hymnary.org/hymn/CWS2008/728">Jerusalem the Golden</a></i>, set to the Gustav Holst tune, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thaxted_(tune)">THAXTED</a>.<br />
<br />
While I've been blessed to be asked to compose a number of orchestral settings for the WELS Worship Conference over the years (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Wtebd6y4ISeWZPMHdSellFclU/edit?usp=sharing"><i>The Tree of Life</i>, 2002</a>–soon to be published by CPH, <a href="http://youtu.be/-8-TwzTk2pw?t=20s"><i>Let Children Hear the Mighty Deeds</i>, 2011</a>), <i>Jerusalem the Golden</i> was well known by every attendee to be the final hymn of the conference: it was the one you waited to sing with a thousand other voices, it was the one during which you knew you were going to have a hard time singing through the tears of joy and longing for heaven. I still remember exactly where I was sitting in the Carthage College chapel in the summer of 1996, sitting next to my brother for the closing service of the first WELS Worship Conference, balling my eyes out while trying to sing along to Richard Proulx's arrangement. I remember that feeling of never wanting to leave the conference and desperately longing for the joys heaven. So when the commission came to me last summer to make a new setting of <i>Jerusalem</i>, I was very humbled and honored, and more than a little nervous knowing that <i>Jerusalem</i> was so loved and so anticipated by so many conference goers.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wls.wels.net/people/tiefel-james-p">Professor James Tiefel</a>, Professor of Worship and Preaching at <a href="http://www.wls.wels.net/">Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary</a> and spokesman for the <a href="http://www.wels.net/aom/worship">WELS Commission on Worship</a> and the planning committee, shared with me in the commissioning email one of the reasons for wanting a new setting of THAXTED:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Over the years we have used several settings of the tune THAXTED, none of which was actually composed with the Jerusalem text in mind! Our planning committee feels it’s time that the text and tune were featured in an original composition.</span></blockquote>
How was this new commission received in worship? I'll take what <a href="http://crbassett.com/archives/jerusalem-the-golden.html">Pastor Caleb Bassett wrote</a> as a very positive review. Other reviews came in quickly over Twitter:<br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
To <a href="https://twitter.com/dalewitte">@dalewitte</a>: the tears flowed freely as I thought of glory which awaits us. Glorious and heavenly arr. of THAXTED. Thank you. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WELSWorship?src=hash">#WELSWorship</a><br />
— Rachel J. Pierson (@aleixa) <a href="https://twitter.com/aleixa/statuses/492790637176311808">July 25, 2014</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
Heart-stopping arrangement of “Jerusalem the Golden“ to close the conference. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/welsworship?src=hash">#welsworship</a><br />
— Caleb Bassett (@crbassett) <a href="https://twitter.com/crbassett/statuses/492728287580667905">July 25, 2014</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
THAXTED + Dale = Awesome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WELSworship?src=hash">#WELSworship</a><br />
— Mike Marquardt (@MikeMarquardt) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeMarquardt/statuses/492730006154387456">July 25, 2014</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
My prayer is that this setting helps people to pray<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">"Jesus in mercy bring us<br />To that dear land of rest<br />Where sings the host of heaven<br />Your glorious name to bless." </span>(<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Christian Worship Supplement</i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> 728, st. 2)</span></blockquote>
and that this setting serves the Church at large to be<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">"The shout of them that triumph,<br />The song of them that feast.<br />To God enthroned in glory<br />The Church’s voices blend." </span> (<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">CWS </i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">728, st. 3)</span></blockquote>
<i>Soli Deo Gloria </i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5641578910708871428.post-50208738708767230662014-07-25T18:03:00.001-05:002014-07-25T18:03:02.187-05:00A Free Piece of My Piano Music (and a link to buy my book!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://online.nph.net/images/PRODUCT/large/large_2700058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://online.nph.net/images/PRODUCT/large/large_2700058.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
For all those who were at one of my piano music reading sessions at the WELS National Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts, thank you for coming! To those who bought my first book of piano improvisations based on hymn tunes, here is the link to the "corrected" version of "Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus". The NPH publication has a wrong note in the right hand in the opening pattern (an A where there should be an E–it's the melody!).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Wtebd6y4ISZjczMjQ2ZjgtODBkZC00ODQxLTkwZjItMDA0NmVmMzIzZDY3/edit?usp=sharing">Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus - arr. Dale A. Witte</a> (free PDF)<br />
<br />
So here's my request: <a href="http://online.nph.net/p-15311-hymn-improvisations-for-piano.aspx">please go to NPH and buy a copy of my piano book</a> so that the first printing sells out and we can fix the mistake in the 2nd printing. Deal? ;)<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0