A Young Man's Lament 
Composer: Nick Strimple  Author/Lyricist: Paiute Indian, translated by Mary Austin 
Voicing: SATB  Released: January 2022  Difficulty: Advanced
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   The Paiute Indian words are a cry of pain and loss that would be true for any father who lost his son. But the Indian imagery brings us outside and touches us inside. Strimple's musical writing is not multicultural but contemporary and incorporates modern western harmonies. This makes sense when you realize Dr. Strimple's tribute is to honor his teacher and friend, Robert H. Young. It is a touching musical and textual statement. Difficult.
 

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 Alabado (Hymn Of Praise) 
Composer: Anonymous  Arranger: Nick Strimple  Author/Lyricist: Anonymous 
Voicing: Unison 
Season: General  Released: January 2012  Difficulty: Easy
   ''Alabado'' is one of several hymns that originated at, or in close proximity to the Santa Barbara Mission during the middle and late 18th century. Composer, scholar and USC professor Nick Strimple has provided a simple and effective setting for use in worship or as a processional in concert. The original Spanish and an English translation are provided as well as some alternative texts for various seasons.
 

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 California 
Composer: Nick Strimple  Author/Lyricist: Kevin Starr 
Voicing: SATB  Released: January 2021  Difficulty: Advanced
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   Kevin Starr was a history professor at USC, and for many years served as the State Historian for California. In his memory, Nick Strimple was commissioned to write a brief choral recitative using words from Starr's treatise. Although very specific in the text about California, the words ring true for most states in the US. The music follows the text with harmonic colors that match the meaning of the words. Advanced.
 

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