Oh how can I keep from singing?
Robert Harris
The unnacompanied arrangement for four part male voice choir of this American folk hymn is packed with dynamic and emotional contrast. The opening is soft and lyrical and uses the full range of the men's voices from the start. A dramatic explosion of sound then launches us into the rest of the piece as the singer explores his reasons and need for song.
Robert Harris is a professor at the Northwestern University, USA, and a Director of the University's choral organisations. He is active as choral conductor, composer, clinician and adjudicator throughout the United States and abroad. He has also served as a visiting professor at Wayne State University and at the University of South Africa in Pretoria.
Programme notes compiled by Robin Walker