The Unexpected Early Hour

Category:   COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY
Composer:   Reena Esmail
Arranger:   NA
Publisher:   Oxford University Press
Edition:   NA
Voicing:   SATB
Setting:   “The Unexpected Early Hour” – Rebecca Gayle Howell

Reviewer:   

Therees Hibbard
St. Olaf College
R&R Chair College & University
hibbar1@stolaf.edu

All three songs from Esmail’s “Winter Breviary” are marvelous and delightful to sing, challenging, and satisfying. They are perfect for chamber choirs, but can also be managed wonderfully by a larger, nimble ensemble. “The Unexpected Early Hour” is the third in the set, and it brims with energy and rhythmic drive that captures the joy of the season. It truly speaks to the present times. This 3rd movement is also included in CAROLS FOR CHOIRS 6 [Oxford University Press].

Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHUbs0slv9I

Link:  https://www.reenaesmail.com/catalog-item/a-winter-breviary/