We invited composer Gwyneth Walker to write a quick post about her new multi-movement release, The Morning Train.
Greetings to my Choral Director colleagues. During this time of the year (Spring), most of us are heavily involved with our concerts—at schools, colleges, and community venues. I find myself on the go more than ever.
And my favorite mode of travel is the train. I live within walking distance of my local train station here in New Canaan, CT. From there I can easily get to Stamford, CT, where I pick up Amtrak taking me far and wide.
I have always loved trains, and train travel. In fact, trains are referenced in many of my choral and vocal works. One specific set, The Morning Train, is a four-song collection, all about trains. Most of the songs are quite active. An astute listener may hear train whistles, or sounds of passing trains.
The Morning Train is scored for SATB chorus with brass quintet and percussion (or just piano). Plenty of energy!
My friends in the Reading, PA, Choral Society have even made a video of their performance of “Freight Train” (song #2 in the set) while singing in a caboose at the Train Museum!
I hope that you will enjoy singing these songs. And perhaps you will think of me, riding my local train, smiling as I stare out of the window as the miles pass by.
Best wishes—
Gwyneth Walker
In Tune blog 