To Song and Dance

When a choir wants to bring a bright, classical energy to a concert or a special presentation, George Frideric Handel’s "To Song and Dance" is a magnificent choice. Originally from his oratorio Samson, this chorus bursts with a lively, rhythmic joy that immediately grabs the attention of anyone listening. The opening lines, "To song and dance we give the day," feel like a grand invitation to celebrate, making it a favorite for choir festivals and classical repertoires.

Singing this piece requires a good deal of vocal agility, especially in the soprano and tenor lines where the melody dances through quick, running notes. As the piece progresses, the mood shifts from pure celebration to a bold, dramatic prayer: "Protect us by Thy mighty hand, and sweep this race from out the land." This contrast gives the choir a chance to show both their light, joyful tone and their powerful, full-voiced strength. It is a thrilling challenge for any choir loft, rewarding both the singers who master its runs and the audience who gets to hear it.