Erik Whitehill, Composer

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Publications
Choral  *  Musicals  *  Instrumental *  Music Education Resources


SATB Choral


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Dawns
Heritage Music Press
SATB with Piano

Publisher's Description
Amy Lowell's figurative musings of surmounting obstacles in life with a view to the future receives a rich, thoughtful musical treatment. Your singers will quickly learn the easily mastered choral parts, leaving time to concentrate on dynamic enhancements and phrase development. An especially fine concert or contest choice for younger ensembles.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper

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Didn't It Rain?
Heritage Music Press
SATB with Piano

Publisher's Description
What do you get when you take colorful vocal scoring and mix in handfuls of delicious chords, driving bass lines, and jazz piano writing? The answer is Erik Whitehill's treatment of the popular Noah and the Ark spiritual, an especially effective festival selection.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing

Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Spring Sings in Me
Heritage Music Press
SATB with Piano
Lyrics by Sara Teasdale

Publisher's Description
Free and lovely music surrounds the lyrical poetry of Sara Teasdale, including nice touches of text painting. Logical voice leading and comfortable ranges make this charming original accessible for any ensemble. "Yet the backyards are bare and brown with only one unchanging tree. I could not be so sure of spring, save it sings in me."

Performance Video
A Cappella Choir
McClintock High School, Tempe, AZ
Katie Gerrich, Director
YouTube Video

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​J. W. Pepper
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Tannenbaum Variations
Heritage Music Press
SATB with Piano

Publisher's Description
Explore your whimsy with this delightfully creative medley of "O Tannenbaum". Begin with a clever chorale, move through the ornamented "F. Melius Christiansen style" second treatment into a lively 7/8 meter variant, and finish in grand fashion to a rich, full choral finale. Three minutes of delightful Christmas joy!

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​J. W. Pepper

Three-part Mixed Choral


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Actiones Secundum Fidei
Heritage Music Press
Three-Part with Piano 

Publisher's Description
"Actiones secundum fidei ... We make choices which flow from our belief." Written in a balanced ABA form, the rhythmically charged initial statement flows into a lovely, lyrically contrasting B section. Engaging parts are written for all voices, and episodes of independent movement are also incorporated.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press

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Funga Alafia
Heritage Music Press
Three-Part with Piano and Optional Percussion

Publisher's Description
A rousing celebration of life is seen in this traditional Nigerian song of welcome. Repetition and engaging rhythms aid in quick learning, and suggestions for stage movement are provided. Guides for the translation and pronunciation of Yoruba lyrics are also included.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press​
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J. W. Peppper
(Editor's Choice)
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Sure On This Shining Night
Heritage Music Press
Three-Part Mixed with Piano

Publisher's Description
At last, a magnificent setting of James Agee's iconic text, written specifically for three-part mixed ensembles (with appropriate voice leading and comfortable middle ranges!) to enjoy rehearsing and performing. "Sure on this shining night of star made shadows round, kindness must watch for me this side the ground." A stunning addition to any concert or contest program!

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Performance Video
York Middle School 8th Grade Chorus
York Middle School, York, SC
Michele Welton, Director
YouTube Video
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Wade in the Water:
Easy Choral Music for All Ages

Augsburg Fortress
SA/SAB with Piano

Publisher's Description
This dynamic collection of two-part and three-part choral music is sure to be a favorite! Ideal for youth or adult choirs with limited rehearsal time or small numbers, this collection of fifteen pieces offers a wide variety of styles including spirituals, folk songs and original contemporary tunes. 

Arranged by Erik Whitehill in this Collection (all SAB)
  • Come, My Way
  • Come, Now Long Expected Jesus
  • Hosanna! (Michael W. Smith)
  • Now the Green Blade Rises
  • Wade in the Water
  • Wind of the Spirit (Handt Hanson)

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing

Augsburg Fortress
Choristers Guild (Distributor)

SSA Choral


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Step by Step
Heritage Music Press
SSA with Piano

Publisher's Description
Beginning softly with an optional solo, "Step by Step" quickly breaks into an invigorating rhythmic celebration. Superb choral writing with moments of clever part independence fill this feel-good piece about never giving up or being afraid to venture out on a journey.

Performance Video
Voices of Valley Choral Festival 2014
with the Phoenix Children's Chorus
Herbert Washington, Directing
YouTube Video



Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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We Will Shine
Heritage Music Press
SSA with Piano

Publisher's Description
"We can’t control the darkness, but together we are strong. We can light a candle of love and peace and song, but sleep now. Let go of your fear. Tomorrow we will shine, and I’ll be here." Touching thoughts of finding comfort and solace in a restless world come alive with embracing harmonies and effective part-writing for women’s voices. A beautiful expression of love and caring.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​J. W. Pepper

Men's Choral


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Bluegrass Greensleeves
Heritage Music Press
TB with Piano (with optional tenor solo)

Publisher's Description
Mid-twentieth century Appalachia meets the English Tudor period in this refreshing and cleverly conceived interpretation of a treasured folk song. A good deal of unison writing and carefully thought-out voice leading paves the way for a unique and entertaining experience! An optional tenor solo is included.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Let's Go On an Adventure
Heritage Music Press
​TB with Piano

Publisher's Description
Let's go on an adventure! Hurry, we'll soon set sail! Spies in disguise and secret trips, knaves in their caves and pirate ships. Written in the spirit of the swashbuckling adventures of Peter Pan, this fast-paced original selection is a delightful change-of-pace concert offering!


Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Simul Justus et Peccator
Heritage Music Press
TTB with Piano

Publisher's Description
Discover and highlight the unique tonal qualities of the male voice with this dynamic contribution to the men's choral repertoire, complete with traditional Latin text. Translation, pronunciation guide, and notes from the composer are also included.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper


Unison/Two-part Choral


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Flying
Heritage Music Press
Two-Part with Piano

Publisher's Description
Beginning slowly and with a few voices, this energy-charged work quickly gains momentum and breaks forth in a fast-moving flight of text and music. A contrasting, more lyrical middle section leads into a recap of the first section and a thrilling ending. "Rocketing so far, so fast, I’m soaring, gaining speed! My shadow stripes the world below, my heart and spirit freed!"

Performance Video
Dolce Singers
Chicago, IL
Ryan Rimington, Director
YouTube Video

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​J. W Pepper
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Funga Alafia
Heritage Music Press
Two-Part with Piano and Optional Piano

Publisher's Description
Experience a rousing celebration of life in this Nigerian song of welcome. Repetition and engaging rhythms aid in quick learning with opportunities for stage movement. Guides for the translation and pronunciation of the Yoruba lyrics are included.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
JW Pepper
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God of All Creation (A Child's Prayer)
Choristers Guild
SA with Piano and Optional Recorder and Finger Cymbals

Publisher's Description
This precious prayer anthem from Erik Whitehill broadens the worldview of the singer and listener alike. The simple melody and optional recorder part give this piece a childlike grounding, yet the text elevates this piece from a simple children's song to a thoughtful reflection on humanity. A great opportunity to hone lyrical phrasing with your treble choir.

Performance Video
Kirk Choir
First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC
Kelly Potts, director
YouTube Video

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Choristers Guild
J. W. Pepper (Editor's Choice)
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I Am a Lamb
Choristers Guild
Unison with Piano and Optional Flute and Finger Cymbals

Publisher's Description
This charming anthem tells the story of the lost sheep in a delightful way! Whimsical verses offer the story's details, and the memorable refrain assures us that Jesus will always look after us, even when we wander. Optional flute and finger cymbal parts add to the charm of this unison anthem, and the score also includes chords for guitar accompaniment.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
J.W. Pepper 
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In God's Hands
Choristers Guild
Two-Part with Piano

Publisher's Description
Children's and youth choirs will have a ton of fun with Erik Whitehill's reimagination of He's Got the Whole World in His Hands. This two-part anthem features updated and inclusive language along with a funky rhythmic accompaniment. Whitehill's two-part writing is accessible and hits all the right marks!

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
J.W. Pepper (Editor's Choice)
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Mountain Stream
Heritage Music Press
​Unison/Two-Part with Piano 

Publisher's Description
Over raging rapids and around sharp bends, here's an energizing musical trip down Colorado's 31-mile Boulder Creek. A highly rhythmic piano part sets the stage while the exciting lyrics leave audiences breathless!

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Night Time
Heritage Music Press
​Unison/Two-Part with Piano and Optional Windchime

Publisher's Description
Beginning as a slow ballad, then transitioning into a cool, upbeat Latin groove, this unique selection is full of musical variety and tonal color. The piano part is a joy to play and offers just the right support for young voices.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
J. W. Pepper
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Children's Musicals (Secular)


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Panda and the Moon
Heritage Music Press
Grades K - 2
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Publisher's Description
Flexible enough to incorporate one class or an entire grade, Erik Whitehill's brilliantly orchestrated original musical offers a one-of-a-kind experience for elementary students. Join Panda and his good friend Moon as they explore the Happy Valley Zoo and learn valuable life lessons along the way. Demonstration recordings, accompaniment tracks, and reproducible resources, including lyric sheets, scripts, PowerPoints, and instrumental parts, can be found on the included CD.


Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​YouTube Information
J. W. Pepper

Music K-8

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Puzzle Puppy
Heritage Music Press
Grades K - 2

Publisher's Description
Grades K–2 • Erik Whitehill brings us another original, innovative, and budget-stretching musical presentation for elementary students. Join Puzzle Puppy on a dark and stormy night as he investigates the case of Pixie Poodle’s missing puppy treats! Full of charm, wit, and laughs, this musical features five primary speaking roles with options to include as many students as you would like in the chorus. Included on the enhanced CD is a full sample recording, accompaniment tracks, a PowerPoint slide show, instrumental parts that provide the option of including live musicians to accompany your presentation, and other helpful rehearsal aides.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Heritage Music Press
​J. W. Pepper

YouTube Full Demo
YouTube Information

Children's Musicals (Sacred)


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Esther
Choristers Guild
2 Part (some divisi) with Piano and 2 optional C Instruments

Publisher's Description
Through the story of Esther, travel to the citadel of Susa where King Ahasuerus names Esther his new Queen and where Esther faces the decision of her life. Will wicked Haman prevail or will selfless Mordecai convince Esther to trust in God and save her people? Esther is filled with memorable melodies, fun and whimsical reprises, and heartfelt ballads. While there is lots of music for your choir, there are also strong solo portions. The singers' edition includes the full script and vocal parts with piano accompaniment. The director's score ALSO includes instrumental cues and reproducible instrumental parts. This piece can also be performed with two optional C instruments. Don't miss this new gem for children! 40 minutes.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Choristers Guild
J. W. Pepper (Editor's Choice)

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Journey to Bethlehem
Choristers Guild
Unison/Two-Part with Piano
Optional Bells and Chamber Orchestra

Publisher's Description
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Based directly from the nativity story in scripture, this oratorio-style musical is easily learned by singers of all ages. As the angels visit Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds to tell the good news of a baby boy, recurring musical themes connect these visits and these characters as they journey to Bethlehem. Composer Erik Whitehill hits just the right mix: from a heartwarming ballad to a jazzy title tune, and a delightful Gloria round to bookend arrangements of ADESTE FIDELES. Minimal set and costume needs - use the nativity props and costumes you already have on hand! The musical is scored for unison or two-part voices with piano, with optional parts for handbells/handchimes and a small chamber orchestra. A great Christmas cantata option for a smaller adult choir.
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Sample Pages and Purchasing 
Choristers Guild
​J. W. Pepper

Complete Audio Demo 
Chorisrters Guild SoundCloud

Instrumental Work


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There is a Balm in Gilead
AGEHR Publishing
Handbells (3 - 5 Octaves, Level 2)

Publisher's Description
With a motive drawn from the beloved melody, Erik Whitehill's wonderful arrangement of a traditional spiritual is sure to stay in the ear and in the heart. Accessible and tuneful, it begins in D major and modulates to E flat major for the final stanza.
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Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Lorenz 
J. W. Pepper
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Prayer (Be Still My Soul)
AGEHR Publishing
Handbells (3 - 5 Octaves, Level 2)

Publisher's Description
A beautiful musical prayer that incorporates the famous hymn, Be Still My Soul. LV use, echoes, and lyrical lines characterize this lovely and thought-provoking expression of faith.
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Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Lorenz
J. W. Pepper (Editor's Choice)
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The Country Mouse and
The City Mouse Suite

Falls House Press (Theodore Presser Distributor)
Flute, Piano and Narrator

Publisher's Description
'The Country Mouse and the City Mouse Suite' is a four movement program piece full of zest and frolicking energy. It tells the story of Aesop’s fable with a short narration beginning each movement. The music portrays the emotion and plot with moments ranging from the contented sleepiness of farm living, to the jazzy hustle and bustle of the city, to the dastardly doings...of...a CAT!! The piece is an appropriate work for an undergraduate flute recital.

Demo Recordings, Sample Pages and Purchasing
Theodore Presser
J. W. Pepper
Music Education Resources
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Can We Do It Again?
Elementary Sound and Movement Activities Fostering Learning, Creativity, and Joy 

Heritage Music Press
K-5 General Music Classroom Resource Book

Publisher's Description
Music can be understood. Music is a way to express yourself. Music learning is enjoyable. These three statements form the core of Erik Whitehill’s teaching and are at the heart of this resource designed to inspire joyful musical exploration and engagement. Ideas for incorporating movement, listening, composing, playing, and more abound in classroom-tested warm-ups, big ideas, and closure and line activities that also offer ample opportunities for assessment. Adaptable to elementary children of all ages and ability levels, these activities are sure to have your students begging "Can We Do It Again?"
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Purchasing
Lorenz
JW Pepper
West Music
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