Renowned composer Rosephanye Powell has been honored with the 2025 Raymond Brock Memorial Commission. This prestigious award will have her new work premiered at the American Choral Directors Association’s 2025 National Conference in Dallas, Texas. Powell, acclaimed for her contributions to solo vocal and choral music, boasts an extensive portfolio published by major publishers. Her works have been showcased by esteemed ensembles and conductors worldwide. Additionally, she is a Professor of Voice at Auburn University, with significant contributions to the study and performance of African-American spirituals.
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Kyrie Eleison
Release Date: March 2025
Discover the majestic sound of Rosephanye Powell’s Kyrie Eleison, a captivating choral masterpiece. Featuring soaring vocal lines and a lush piano accompaniment, this SATB arrangement brings new life to the ancient text. With its unique blend of depth and approachability, Kyrie Eleison is an excellent addition to the repertoire of high school, community, and professional choirs.
Commissioned by the ACDA Endowment in memory of Raymond W. Brock, “Kyrie Eleison” will be premiered by the Montgomery High School Madrigals, under the direction of Heather Orr, at the 2025 ACDA National Convention in Dallas, TX.
Voicing: SATB
Style: Traditional
Difficulty: Advanced
Series: Rosephanye Powell Choral Series
Publisher: Gentry Publications
From the Composer:
‘Kyrie Eleison’ was conceived during a deeply poignant moment in my life, as my father-in-law journeyed through his final days toward eternity. While searching for a text for the Brock Commission, my niece called one summer evening, her voice heavy with emotion, to share that her grandfather had endured a particularly difficult day. Although much of his time was spent in peaceful sleep, he occasionally cried out in pain, pleading, “Lord, have mercy.” He had already made peace with his journey, reassuring us that he was ready to leave this world and find eternal rest. In that tearful moment, the Latin text Kyrie eleison came to me with striking immediacy.
The structure of the song reflects the transition my father-in-law experienced on his journey. The piano introduction and opening A section, inspired by Eric Satie’s tender Gymnopédie No. 1, embody the tranquil moments of his restful sleep as he moved toward eternity. The “Sanctus” (B section) captures his impassioned cries to God, seeking relief and a swift journey into Heaven. The return to the A section mirrors the moments when his pain subsided, allowing him to rest peacefully once more. The closing, delicate piano refrain of ‘Kyrie Eleison,’ underscored by the gentle hum of voices, symbolizes the serene moment of his passing—a moment so quiet that those by his side only realized he was gone as a profound sense of peace filled the room.
‘Kyrie Eleison’ is my tribute to the grace and beauty of my father-in-law’s final moments, a heartfelt offering of solace to those who are grieving or cherishing the memory of their loved ones.