Program Notes:

San'bonani/Nda Wana

Arr. Michael Barrett

"San'bonani" is a greeting in Zulu, one of South Africa's eleven official languages. The phrase is often used in the plural form to greet a group of people, and can be translated as "We greet you" or "Hello everyone." The song itself is a joyful and spirited expression of that greeting, celebrating the connection between individuals and their community. The music is rhythmic and lively, filled with energy that reflects the warmth and hospitality inherent in Zulu culture.

"Nda Wana" is a song from the Venda people with lyrics that can be translated as "I found the children playing, while the birds were singing by the river as they resisted sleep”. 

Connected

By Brian Tate

“Connected” is an a cappella piece written in a pop vocal style. Each vocal line carries its own independent melody, but when intertwined together helps to demonstrate the shared experiences that bind us all. At its core, "Connected" explores the idea that despite our individual differences, we are all fundamentally linked through the threads of human experience.

Lead with Love

By Melanie DeMore

Social activist Melanie DeMore’s "Lead With Love" is an empowering call on each of us to approach the world with compassion, strength, and empathy. Composed in 2016, this work is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that love—both individual and collective—can have in shaping a more just and harmonious society.

Marry You

By Bruno Mars

“Marry You” is a pop, doo wop, and soul song reminiscent of a 1960’s pop style. Making it to No. 85 on the Billboard Hot 100, this song expresses the excitement of spontaneous marriage, and the joy of finding the one you love. The song garnered social media attention when it was used in flash-mob style proposal videos. 

Lights

By Ellie Goulding

“Lights” co-written by Ellie Goulding, Richard Stannard, and Ashe Howes is a song based on Goulding's childhood fear of the dark. Reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song was credited with combining folk and pop styles to create an ethereal electronica sound.

Our Song

By Taylor Swift 

Taylor Swift originally wrote “Our Song” for her 9th grade talent show about young love and life. Knee deep in her debut Country genre, “Our Song” is built on a banjo riff and made Swift the youngest person, at 17 years old, to top the Hot Country Songs list for six weeks.

Linger

By O’Riordon & Hogan

“Linger” by The Cranberries, an Irish alt. rock band, was first released on February 15, 1993. With personal lyrics by Dolores O’Riordon it is a song of regret based on a young soldier she fell in love with. Having a very distinctive voice, O’Riordon was known for her lilting yodel style, and her strong accent. Recently “Linger” has found new life and popularity amongst Gen Z after an acoustic arrangement trended on TikTok. 

Eleanor Rigby

By Paul McCartney

"Eleanor Rigby," originally composed by John Lennon and Paul McCartney of The Beatles, is one of the most iconic songs from their 1966 album Revolver. The piece is notable for its departure from the band's earlier rock style, featuring a stark, minimalist arrangement that highlights its melancholy themes.

I’m Yours

By Jason Mraz

"I'm Yours," by singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, is an uplifting and feel-good anthem of love, positivity, and self-acceptance. Released in 2008 as the lead single from his album We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things., the song quickly became a global hit, resonating with audiences for its infectious melody, laid-back vibe, and heartfelt lyrics.