I Want Two Wings
by Earlene Rentz
2-Part - Sheet Music

Choral 2-part choir

SKU: CF.BL281

Composed by African American Spiritual. Arranged by Earlene Rentz. Fold. Octavo. With Standard notation. 8 pages. Duration 1:46. BriLee Music #BL281. Published by BriLee Music (CF.BL281).

UPC: 672405002813. 6.875 X 10.5 inches.

Two spirituals are paired in this lively setting that quotes I Want Two Wings along with I Got Shoes before setting them together as partners. The gentle swing style adds a light-hearted bounce to this arrangement that will bring smiles to all who hear.
Spirituals were a natural musical outpouring of enslaved people in America. In this piece, the singers wanted the wings of their guardian angel to cover them so they could not be harmed here on earth. They wanted golden shoes that would protect them, as well as a golden harp that would assure their deliverance to heaven where there would be no more suffering and pain.The rhythm is swing style, that is, uneven eighth notes. You will have to find the groove that fits this particular rhythmic presentation. The octave skip occurs frequently. Be sure you sing it in tune. Put some space between the lower and upper notes so you don't slide up and miss the mark. Then hear the upper tone in your head before you sing it. Sing the octave jump lightly so it doesn't sound forced or pushed.Dynamics are important in this presentation. Up to measure 36 the general dynamic level is moderately loud. Then the use of subito dynamic changes becomes very important. Note that this work ends moderately softly. Be sure there is lots of excitement and intensity in these last two measures. Raise your eyebrows and have that sensation that you are leaning forward a bit. After all, this request for wings is very serious. Smile, though. You don't want this request for wings to come across as an ultimatum.At the end, your last note should be sung short, then freeze in position until your director releases you. Above all, have fun singing this work.