Between the Lines: "Vanitas Canon," Arranged by Russell Robinson

Originally part of his longer work Cantiones Sacrae, the canon on the famous text from Ecclesiastes ("Vanity, vanity, all is vanity") was published by Dutch composer Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck in 1619. This arrangement of Vanitas Canon by Russell Robinson features three equal voices, and may be performed with or without the supportive piano accompaniment.

Dr. Russell L. Robinson, Emeritus Professor Music Education at the University of Florida, has made over 300 appearances as a conductor, speaker, consultant and presenter at festivals, workshops, honor choirs, all-state choirs and state, regional, national and international conferences in the US, Europe, Asia, Africa, Central America, South America, Mexico, Canada, the Middle East, and Australia as well as conducting venues, which include: Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Boston's Symphony Hall, the White House, and Washington's National Cathedral. Dr. Robinson was the 2016 inductee into the Florida Music Educators Association (FMEA) Hall of Fame, and is a past President of FMEA, Associate Dean of the UF College of the Arts, National Collegiate Chair and Choral Adviser for the National Association for Music Education (NAfME).

What inspired you to write Vanitas Canon?

I love writing canons and rounds. A great way to achieve success—all get to sing the same part, then the same part at different times.

What teaching suggestions do you have to share for Vanitas Canon?

Have all sing the unison line, next have the parts sing separately, then try the song as written. At first use the "optional" piano part, then if you decide not to use it, that's your choice. The optional piano part supports the voice parts.

What message do you have for singers learning this piece?

Keep singing with a full breath before each phrase. This is in Latin, so pure vowels are the key to singing this beautifully. Watch the Alfred video on YouTube! And, ENJOY it!