Between the Lines: "O Wind" by Michael John Trotta

You can hear the gentle breezes passing by in this charming setting of the playful Robert Louis Stevenson poem, in which a child talks with the wind. Independent melodic writing in both voice parts sets your singers up for success. O Wind by Michael John Trotta is an expressive treble feature for choirs of any age.

Fueled by a passion to share new music that engages conductors, ensembles, and audiences alike, Michael John Trotta is fast becoming one of the most “exciting and prominent new composers of choral music.” Drawing on his experience as a conductor and clinician, he brings artistry and excellence within reach for thousands of musicians each year. His engaging style fuses tradition and innovation to create moments of beauty that “effectively carry out a dialogue between the [music] and the modern listener.” ( Choral Journal )

What inspired you to write O Wind?

I was inspired to write this piece for the many excellent younger choirs looking for a way to effectively teach part-singing. When I was teaching younger choirs part-singing, it seemed that the singers always wound up singing the higher part. I crafted this piece to be a way to give each part their own unique rhythm that complements the other. When it all comes together with the flowing piano line, it really makes the choir shine!

What teaching suggestions do you have to share for O Wind?

If you are teaching this piece, one thing to consider would be to teach the second verse first. Starting at m. 14, I would teach the two parts independently. Then once the parts were learned, I would put them together in a call and response fashion. This same process can then be used for the introduction, and then the chorus of the piece. It’s a great way to teach independent part-singing.

What message do you have for singers learning this piece?

Many thanks to all of the singers who work so hard learning musical skills, vocal techniques, and new music. You make the music matter!

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