Heycoka Te Deum

A good example of MacMillan’s highly resourceful writing for young voices, this energetic and enterprising work gives the Latin 'Te Deum' words to a choir of beginner singers and the Lakota chant to a three-part choir of treble/soprano voices. Flute and bells support the choirs without merely doubling, and the piano part colourfully echoes the vocal lines. 

MacMillan’s often-used vocal ornamentation is much in evidence here and the piece is challenging but not difficult. It is an ideal vehicle for young singers who will enjoy working through the rhythmic groupings and getting to grips with singing quick scales and tuning triadic passages. Thebeginners (who are also given simpler forms of the ornament) will also find the involvement with their more experienced counterparts exciting and motivating. 

Helpful notes by Doreen Rao in the front of the score give hints about how to approach teaching this music to young singers in an imaginative and enjoyable way. 

For treble voices in three parts, treble voices in unison, flute, tubular bells and piano. Latin and English.