Official site of composer Andrea Clearfield. Biography, list of works with audio, score samples, reviews and program notes, photographs, upcoming performances.
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with piano, 2012), 32 min.
Commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
A beautifully constructed and deeply satisfying work of art..fantastic, rich, powerful..cries out for more performances!
–Peter Burwasser, Broad Street Review
I don’t know of a contemporary work of this genre that comes close to the emotional and almost extraterrestrial highs that TSE GO LA delivers. Andrea has a wonderful sense of large-scale timing and drama in all her works, but this piece spans the broadest arch of any of her pieces that I’ve heard. From the “elemental” electronic opening, with its rocks and fire and water and wind, to the “Birth” sequence (with meltingly lovely poetry by Sienna Craig), all the way to the chanting of the Heart Sutra in the “Death” music at the close, this is a half-hour of musical magic-making of the highest order. When the last singing bowl ceased ringing, there was a full thirty seconds of silence before anyone dared to applaud—but then the response was overwhelming. This music will resonate within everyone who hears it for a very long time.”
–Dan Welcher, Composer-Conductor, Director, University of Texas New Music Ensemble
Collaborating with Andrea Clearfield is a joy and adventure. If I take the slimmest of ideas to her, she’s like a flint stone with a spark.
– Alan Harler, Artistic Director, Mendelssohn Club
Singing into Presence(2022) for SATB chorus and piano. Commissioned by University of New Mexico Choruses and Orchestra, directed by David Edmonds and Matthew Forte, to poetry by Catherine O’Meara on our personal and collective journeys as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Orchestral version premiered at UNM on May 5, 2022.
Singing into Presence(2022) for SATB chorus and orchestra, commissioned by University of New Mexico Choruses and Orchestra, directed by David Edmonds and Matthew Forte respectively, to poetry by Catherine O’Meara on our personal and collective journeys as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Premiered at UNM on May 5, 2022.
Standing at the Beam (2022) for SATB chorus and string quintet, commissioned by Edward D. Anderson Choral Scholars Fund in Honor of Michigan State University Chorale, David Rayl, conductor, to poetry by Anthony Silvestri. Premiered at Michigan State University, April 2, 2022.
When we Listen (2022) for SATB chorus. Commissioned and premiered by Singing City. Poetry by Susan Windle.
Beyond the Binary (2022) for SATB chorus, three soloists and percussion quartet, 40 minutes, commissioned and premiered by Mendelssohn Chorus, Dominick DiOrio, director. Libretto by Ellen Frankel, custom percussion instruments by David Kontak. Premiere at the Fillmore, Philadelphia on May 15, 2022.
HERE I AM: I AM HERE (2020) for 2 vocal soloists, 2 narrators, SATB chorus, string quartet and piano, commissioned by Coro Allegro.
The experience of working with Andrea was extraordinary. Her artistic standards are impeccable. It is clear that she crafts music of the highest order, but it is the union of the music and the messaging that makes Andrea’s music so powerful. More and more, Andrea has been tackling issues involving the LGBTQ+ communities, and her thoughtfulness and perceptiveness is just what is needed as we all embrace – and celebrate – all of the nuanced challenges that are before us these days. For the messaging to be heard, the music conveying that message must be superb, and Andrea delivers that and more. It is clear that in our current world, musical integrity and issues of social justice can intertwine to give voice to those who have been previously silenced. Andrea is that rare combination of brilliant artist, empathetic listener, and thoughtful communicator whose compositions can bring those marginalized voices to life.”
— David Hodgkins, Artistic Director, Coro Allegro
Agnus Dei (SATB- 2021), from A Brush with Our Time, 3 min.
Commissioned by Fourth Coast Ensemble, Bridget Skaggs, Artistic Director
Transformed by Fire (2022) for soprano and baritone soloists, SATB chorus and piano, 25 minutes to poetry by Ariana Kramer.
A Brush with our Time (2022) for solo vocal quartet, SATB chorus and chamber ensemble, 40 minutes to libretto by Doreen Rao after “Painting Peace: Art in a Time of Global Crisis” by Kazuaki Tanahashi
Pan with Us (2006, arr. 2022) for soprano and baritone soloists, SATB chorus and orchestra, 10 minutes to poetry by Robert Frost from “A Boy’s Will”
Welcome Home Child (SATB chorus, percussion and piano 2008, arr. by the composer in 2020) for the 2021 Hal Leonard Choral Catalogue, Rick Bjella’s San Antonio Chamber Singers series, poetry by Charlotte Blake Alston, 5 min. Original cantata commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra
Farlorn Alemen (SATB, piano, 2010), 7 1/2 min.
Commissioned by Nashirah Jewish Chorale
“Written for and premiered by Nashirah: The Jewish Chorale of Greater Philadelphia, this poem by Sima Faitelson is full of power, and loss and the pain that accompanies loss. This incredibly creative composition will leave listeners and singers breathless. ”
–G. Schirmer
“It was immediately clear that Andrea understood Nashirah and our hopes for this commission. Her suggestion of a choral setting of the Yiddish Holocaust poem “Farlorn Alemen” was completely in harmony with Nashirah’s mission and esthetic. We knew we had not commissioned a mere choral piece, but a relevant and contemporary piece of art. Andrea’s music is a reflective and deeply moving commentary on the Holocaust, and should be a permanent piece of the Holocaust artistic canon. It was an honor to premiere this challenging and rewarding work, and we are deeply fortunate to have been a part of its creation.”
The Song of Hannah (SATB chorus and organ; 2018), text to 1 Samuel 2:1-9, 6 min.
Commissioned by The Women’s Sacred Music Project
Khandroma (SATB chorus; 2017), 8 1/2 min.
Commissioned by The Esoterics
White Lotus:a prayer for Guru Padmasambhava (SATB, piano, re-recorded electronics 2015), 3 min. 30 sec.
Commissioned by Schola Cantorum on Hudson, Deborah Simpkin King, Artistic Director
Transformed by Fire Choral Suite (baritone and soprano soloists, SATB chorus and piano, 2022, premiered by the Florida State University Singers, Kevon Fenton, director ), 25 min. . Original song cycle for baritone and piano for the Leopold Writing Residency. Choral Suite commissioned by two anonymous Taos residents and also supported by Bloedel Reserve.
Into the Blue (SATB, flute, vibes or marimba, piano; SATB, flute and piano; SATB and piano; 2008), 8 min.
Commissioned by the Rainbow Chorale of Delaware
“Everyone loved your piece – - I found it fresh, insightful, lyrical, and beautifully crafted. And, so hard to find – - a piece that sounds more difficult than it is, achieves terrific power without being incredibly challenging.”
–Lee Kesselman, Artistic Director, The DuPage Chorale
“The Rainbow Chorale of Delaware commissioned both the poem and the music of Into the Blue for its 10th anniversary concert. Andrea masterfully set Susan Windle’s poem. The singers enjoyed Andrea’s entire creative process, from conception, to sketch, and finally to manuscript. Her visits with the ensemble were warm and inviting, and she always left the singers feeling empowered. The music is complex and rewarding without being abjectly difficult, and it is a work that choirs at all levels can perform with pride and strength.”
–Stephen Caldwell, Artistic Director, The Rainbow Chorale of Delaware
Poet of the Body and the Soul (SATB, piano, 2012), 9 min.
Commissioned by The College of New Jersey Chorale, John Leonard, artistic director
Alleluia (SATB- 2015), 7 min.
Commissioned by Mendelssohn Club, Paul Rardin, Artistic Director, in honor of Maestro Alan Harler
Andrea’s Alleluia for Alan Harler glows. A lyrical four-note theme permeates this charming six-minute miniature, winding its way through both lilting, calming refrains and brassy fanfares, culminating in a rhythmic heartbeat of singers’ hands tapping their own chests (could this be Andrea’s own heart thanking her dear colleague Alan Harler for their many years of collaboration?). Thanks to very shrewd voice-leading, Alleluia falls into that category most prized by conductors: “Accessible Pieces that Sound More Challenging Than They Are.” Thank you Andrea — we can’t wait to bring this piece into the world on March 5.
–Paul Rardin, Artistic Director, Mendelssohn Club of Philadelphia
Alleluias for composers Higdon and Clearfield, both composers at their best…entrancing
–David Patrick Stearns, Music Critic, The Philadelphia Inquirer, 3/7/2016
“Poet of the Body and the Soul was the first commission by The College of New Jersey Chorale, and what a fantastic commissioning experience it was! Working with Andrea gives your musicians the experience of music-making in its purist form. It was an absolute joy for my ensemble, pianist and myself to bring her amazing setting of Whitman’s text to life. Andrea’s passionate music and spirit inspired each of us to give our very best to each performance. This is a piece that you cannot wait to share with your audience!”
—John P. Leonard, Director, The College of New Jersey Chorale
Les Fenêtres (SATB, soprano and mezzo soprano soloists with chamber orchestra or piano; 2011), 16 min.
Commissioned by Singing City
Three Tenses of Light (SATB and string quartet or SATB and piano; 2012), 8:18 min.
Commissioned by the Newburyport Chamber Music Festival
Dream Variations (SATB, flute, viola, harp, organ – 2008), 22 min.
Commissioned by The Debussy Trio
“You must program Dream Variations with your choirs!”
–Grant Gershon, Music Director, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Kabo Omowale (Welcome Home Child) (SATB, narrator, orchestra – 2008 – suitable for intergenerational choruses), 18 min.
Commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra
“The music’s broadly drawn strokes touched emotional bases as only music can. It was bound to make the audience jump up and cheer at the end. And it did.”
–David Patrick Stearns, The Philadelphia Inquirer, July 29, 2008
“What an incredible experience this has been, for me and for the chorus! We have really enjoyed the process and are looking forward to a stellar premier tomorrow evening! I’m greatly looking forward to conducting this work, and the impact it will have on our St. Louis audience! Thank you for this tremendous work.”
–Kevin McBeth, Associate Conductor, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Fire and Ice (sop. and bar. solos, SATB, orchestra – 2007), 46 min.
Commissioned by the Handel Society of Dartmouth College
“Fire and Ice was commissioned by the Handel Society in celebration of their bicentennial anniversary. This moving cantata is the first major setting of poetry by Robert Frost since the 1955 setting of Frostiana by Randall Thompson. Andrea’s writing is sensitive, intuitive, and deeply personal. Her commitment to the poet’s intent and colorful, intriguing orchestrations combined with the meticulous care she took when writing for the human voice allowed for Fire and Ice to become a significantly rewarding experience for both the performers and audience alike.”
–Robert Duff, Conductor, Handel Society of Dartmouth College
The Golem Psalms (bar. solo, SATB, orchestra – 2006), 30 min.
Commissioned by The Mendelssohn Club
“Among the many large, choral/orchestra works commissioned by Mendelssohn Club of Philadelphia in the past 20 years, Andrea Clearfield’s THE GOLEM PSALMS is one of the most compelling. Beautifully written for both choral and orchestral forces, it has a direct and powerful impact and it remains a favorite of our performers and our audience. The solo role of the baritone, as the Golem, is brilliant. This is a perfectly balanced piece. Working with Andrea is a conductor’s dream!”
–Alan Harler, Music Director, The Mendelssohn Club
The River of God (SATB, organ – 2003), 7 min.
Commissioned by the American Guild of Organists
“Learning and performing The River of God was an immense pleasure. For once, a new piece that was challenging, but, where the challenges were satisfying, not frustrating. The work itself has a tremendous sense of direction with a glorious climax. I fell in love with Clearfield’s work, thanks to The River of God.”
–Jeffrey Brillhart, Music Director, Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church and Singing City Choir
"Set to a poem Maya Angelou wrote for President Clinton’s inauguration, On the Pulse of Morning might be thought of as a secular oratorio. Hopeful and substantive, Clearfield layers an emotional story over Angelou’s. The composer crafts some beautiful and strong melodies…”
–Peter Dobrin, The Philadelphia Inquirer, March 1996.
Nes Gadol Hayah Sham (sop. and bar. solos, SATB, cello, piano – 1992), 7 min.
For Voces Novae et Antiquae
Diary of Justyna (sop. solo, SATB, saxophone, 2 keyboards, percussion – 1988), 30 min.
Collaborative work with Manfred Fischbeck
Treble Chorus
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with flute, percussion, harp and piano, or strings and piano, 2012), 32 min. Commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir. Individual movements may be performed separately.
When I am Woman (SA, piano – 2014) to poetry by Sonia Sanchez, 4 1/2 min.
Commissioned by the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Published by Boosey & Hawkes. Order here.
“When I approached Andrea Clearfield to compose a work based on the poem “When I Am Woman,” by Sonia Sanchez, I knew she would take the meaning and run with it. The energy through her compositional style would be evident in her vocal lines and rhythmic drive. The unique compositional style that Andrea provides in her music allows the singer to engage full-heartedly and the listener is completely taken by her overall musical vision. Andrea’s primal complexity in her music exceeds the traditional techniques and establishes a new and vivid sonority.”
–Vincent Metallo, Music Director, Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Where Everything is Music(2022) for SSA and piano to poetry by Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks. Commissioned by Sigma Alpha Iota. Premiere at the SAI National Convention, Greensboro, NC, July 29, 2022
Home in Me (I. Body, II. Speech, III. Heart-Mind- 2019 – 2022) to poetry by Sienna Craig for SSA, 2 percussion and piano, commissioned by National Concerts and a consortium of treble choirs.
The Kiss (SSAA, cello and piano – 2013) to poetry by Susan Windle. 7:00 min.
Commissioned by the Grand Rapids Womens Chorus. Published by Boosey & Hawkes. Order here. Watch a video of the premiere.
“Working with Andrea Clearfield to commission “The Kiss” was a wonderfully enriching experience for our chorus.She brings so much of her passion to her work, and was very generous in sharing her insights and process with the group. She has an incredible talent of creating texture and making poetry come to life with her music, offering an intense and satisfying experience for all who sing, interpret, or listen to her work.”
–Lori Tennenhouse, Artistic Director Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus
Hagar (SSA and piano – 2011) to poetry by Ellen Frankel. 6:00 min. Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
The Long Bright (sop. solo, SSAA women’s or children’s chorus, also suitable for intergenerational treble chorus, orchestra – 2004), 60 min.
Poetry by David Wolman. Commissioned by David Wolman
“An hour-long cantata on a husband’s poetic response to the death of his wife from breast cancer might have been maudlin and depressing. Instead, this is a terrific piece, uplifting, optimistic, hopeful, featuring a wonderful part for children’s chorus, and a virtuosic role for solo soprano, sung beautifully at the work’s premiere with Orchestra 2001 – surely one of our most successful premieres ever – by the extraordinary Hila Plitmann.”
–James Freeman, Artistic Director, Orchestra 2001
““I really can’t express what a glorious job (Clearfield) has done and how defined … and moving it is,” said Hila Plitmann, a soprano singer who will be the featured soloist in the concert. “There are parts of the piece that are very hard to get through because they are so moving, both lyrically and musically. The combination of the two is just so iridescent and full of light and beauty that you want to start crying yourself while you’re practicing.””
–Hila Plitmann, Grammy award winning soprano in the Daily Bruin, Los Angeles, March 15, 2010
“The Long Bright” (Movement VI from the cantata, arr. for SSAA women’s or children’s chorus, piano – 2004), 5 min.
Poetry by David Wolman. Commissioned by David Wolman
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with piano, 2012), 32 min.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Shar Ki Ri (Mountain in the east) Treble chorus (SSA) with piano or piano and percussion. Also available for treble chorus and chamber ensemble: flute or clarinet, harp, piano, percussion,– 2012), Sung in Tibetan. 4:00 min. Watch a video of the 2015 Colorado All State Chorus performing “Shar Ki Ri” and “Tse Go La”. Published by Seeadot Music Publishing.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SSA and piano, or SSA and chamber ensemble (flute or clarinet, harp, piano, percussion – 2012), Sung in Tibetan. 3:00 min. Published by Seeadot Music Publishing.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
The Shape of my Soul (SSAA, suitable for high school or women’s chorus with string quartet or piano – 2005), 7:30 min.
Commissioned by the Anna Crusis Women’s Choir
Farlorn Alemen (Losing Everybody) SSAA and piano – 2008, arr. 2012), 7 1/2 min.
SATB version commissioned by Nashirah.
“It was immediately clear that Andrea understood Nashirah and our hopes for this commission. Her suggestion of a choral setting of the Yiddish Holocaust poem “Farlorn Alemen” was completely in harmony with Nashirah’s mission and esthetic. We knew we had not commissioned a mere choral piece, but a relevant and contemporary piece of art. Andrea’s music is a reflective and deeply moving commentary on the Holocaust, and should be a permanent piece of the Holocaust artistic canon. It was an honor to premiere this challenging and rewarding work, and we are deeply fortunate to have been a part of its creation.”
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (TTB chorus and piano, 2013), 4 minutes, a lyrical movement from Tse Go La cantata. Sung in Tibetan
Commissioned by Mendelssohn Club and Commonwealth Youthchoirs
That Summer: A Fantasia on Family (TTBB chorus, 2 percussion, piano 2015), 17 min.
Commissioned by The Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, Joseph Buches, Artistic Director
“Composer Andrea Clearfield and librettist Tom Gualtieri composed their cantata That Summer: A Fantasia on Family, to musically explore the historical arc of LGBTQ people achieving marriage equality in their own country. Inspired by the real-life experiences of members of the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, That Summer powerfully and eloquently expresses the truth, soul and heart of their stories.”
–Lewis Whittington, arts journalist
Our Better Angels (ten. and bar. solos, TTBB, 4 trumpets, 4 horns, 3 trombones, (2 tenor, 1 bass), tuba, 2 percussion, harp, organ – 2009), 40 min.
Commissioned by the Turtle Creek Chorale
“Andrea Clearfield has an uncanny way of capturing the very deepest essence of the texts she sets. OUR BETTER ANGELS is a wonderful example of pairing intense, rich poetry with passionate, fiery music. Singers attach themselves to the words and melodies quickly, and are able to provide nuance early on in the preparation.The complex rhythmic intensity in the orchestration helped make our performances thrilling for singer and audience member alike.”
–Jonathan Palant, Artistic Director, The Turtle Creek Chorale
“Simply Love Them” from Our Better Angels (arr. for ten. and bar. solos, TTBB, piano – 2009), 5 min.
Commissioned by the Turtle Creek Chorale
Choral Works
To order music, contact Trudy Chan at Black Tea Music or Andrea Clearfield unless otherwise indicated:
Click on the titles for detailed information including publisher, program notes and audio/score excerpts
©Mark Stehle Photography
SATB Chorus
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with piano, 2012), 32 min.
Commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
A beautifully constructed and deeply satisfying work of art..fantastic, rich, powerful..cries out for more performances!
–Peter Burwasser, Broad Street Review
I don’t know of a contemporary work of this genre that comes close to the emotional and almost extraterrestrial highs that TSE GO LA delivers. Andrea has a wonderful sense of large-scale timing and drama in all her works, but this piece spans the broadest arch of any of her pieces that I’ve heard. From the “elemental” electronic opening, with its rocks and fire and water and wind, to the “Birth” sequence (with meltingly lovely poetry by Sienna Craig), all the way to the chanting of the Heart Sutra in the “Death” music at the close, this is a half-hour of musical magic-making of the highest order. When the last singing bowl ceased ringing, there was a full thirty seconds of silence before anyone dared to applaud—but then the response was overwhelming. This music will resonate within everyone who hears it for a very long time.”
–Dan Welcher, Composer-Conductor, Director, University of Texas New Music Ensemble
Collaborating with Andrea Clearfield is a joy and adventure. If I take the slimmest of ideas to her, she’s like a flint stone with a spark.
– Alan Harler, Artistic Director, Mendelssohn Club
Long Live the Queen (a her-story of drag), hour-long cantata for drag soloist (tenor), chorus amd chamber ensemble to libretto by Cookie Diorio (in progress)
Smile Thy Shores for SATB chorus and cello, commissioned by The Presser Foundation (2023)
Prayer to the Shechinah (2020) for SATB chorus, cello and piano, commissioned by Conspirare, to poetry by Mirabai Starr. Watch the premiere.
Singing into Presence(2022) for SATB chorus and piano. Commissioned by University of New Mexico Choruses and Orchestra, directed by David Edmonds and Matthew Forte, to poetry by Catherine O’Meara on our personal and collective journeys as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Orchestral version premiered at UNM on May 5, 2022.
Singing into Presence(2022) for SATB chorus and orchestra, commissioned by University of New Mexico Choruses and Orchestra, directed by David Edmonds and Matthew Forte respectively, to poetry by Catherine O’Meara on our personal and collective journeys as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Premiered at UNM on May 5, 2022.
Standing at the Beam (2022) for SATB chorus and string quintet, commissioned by Edward D. Anderson Choral Scholars Fund in Honor of Michigan State University Chorale, David Rayl, conductor, to poetry by Anthony Silvestri. Premiered at Michigan State University, April 2, 2022.
When we Listen (2022) for SATB chorus. Commissioned and premiered by Singing City. Poetry by Susan Windle.
Beyond the Binary (2022) for SATB chorus, three soloists and percussion quartet, 40 minutes, commissioned and premiered by Mendelssohn Chorus, Dominick DiOrio, director. Libretto by Ellen Frankel, custom percussion instruments by David Kontak. Premiere at the Fillmore, Philadelphia on May 15, 2022.
HERE I AM: I AM HERE (2020) for 2 vocal soloists, 2 narrators, SATB chorus, string quartet and piano, commissioned by Coro Allegro.
The experience of working with Andrea was extraordinary. Her artistic standards are impeccable. It is clear that she crafts music of the highest order, but it is the union of the music and the messaging that makes Andrea’s music so powerful. More and more, Andrea has been tackling issues involving the LGBTQ+ communities, and her thoughtfulness and perceptiveness is just what is needed as we all embrace – and celebrate – all of the nuanced challenges that are before us these days. For the messaging to be heard, the music conveying that message must be superb, and Andrea delivers that and more. It is clear that in our current world, musical integrity and issues of social justice can intertwine to give voice to those who have been previously silenced. Andrea is that rare combination of brilliant artist, empathetic listener, and thoughtful communicator whose compositions can bring those marginalized voices to life.”
— David Hodgkins, Artistic Director, Coro Allegro
Agnus Dei (SATB- 2021), from A Brush with Our Time, 3 min.
Commissioned by Fourth Coast Ensemble, Bridget Skaggs, Artistic Director
Transformed by Fire (2022) for soprano and baritone soloists, SATB chorus and piano, 25 minutes to poetry by Ariana Kramer.
A Brush with our Time (2022) for solo vocal quartet, SATB chorus and chamber ensemble, 40 minutes to libretto by Doreen Rao after “Painting Peace: Art in a Time of Global Crisis” by Kazuaki Tanahashi
Pan with Us (2006, arr. 2022) for soprano and baritone soloists, SATB chorus and orchestra, 10 minutes to poetry by Robert Frost from “A Boy’s Will”
Welcome Home Child (SATB chorus, percussion and piano 2008, arr. by the composer in 2020) for the 2021 Hal Leonard Choral Catalogue, Rick Bjella’s San Antonio Chamber Singers series, poetry by Charlotte Blake Alston, 5 min.
Original cantata commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra
Farlorn Alemen (SATB, piano, 2010), 7 1/2 min.
Commissioned by Nashirah Jewish Chorale
“Written for and premiered by Nashirah: The Jewish Chorale of Greater Philadelphia, this poem by Sima Faitelson is full of power, and loss and the pain that accompanies loss. This incredibly creative composition will leave listeners and singers breathless. ”
–G. Schirmer
“It was immediately clear that Andrea understood Nashirah and our hopes for this commission. Her suggestion of a choral setting of the Yiddish Holocaust poem “Farlorn Alemen” was completely in harmony with Nashirah’s mission and esthetic. We knew we had not commissioned a mere choral piece, but a relevant and contemporary piece of art. Andrea’s music is a reflective and deeply moving commentary on the Holocaust, and should be a permanent piece of the Holocaust artistic canon. It was an honor to premiere this challenging and rewarding work, and we are deeply fortunate to have been a part of its creation.”
–Jonathan Coopersmith, Artistic Director, Nashirah
The Song of Hannah (SATB chorus and organ; 2018), text to 1 Samuel 2:1-9, 6 min.
Commissioned by The Women’s Sacred Music Project
Khandroma (SATB chorus; 2017), 8 1/2 min.
Commissioned by The Esoterics
White Lotus:a prayer for Guru Padmasambhava (SATB, piano, re-recorded electronics 2015), 3 min. 30 sec.
Commissioned by Schola Cantorum on Hudson, Deborah Simpkin King, Artistic Director
Transformed by Fire Choral Suite (baritone and soprano soloists, SATB chorus and piano, 2022, premiered by the Florida State University Singers, Kevon Fenton, director ), 25 min.
. Original song cycle for baritone and piano for the Leopold Writing Residency. Choral Suite commissioned by two anonymous Taos residents and also supported by Bloedel Reserve.
Into the Blue (SATB, flute, vibes or marimba, piano; SATB, flute and piano; SATB and piano; 2008), 8 min.
Commissioned by the Rainbow Chorale of Delaware
“Everyone loved your piece – - I found it fresh, insightful, lyrical, and beautifully crafted. And, so hard to find – - a piece that sounds more difficult than it is, achieves terrific power without being incredibly challenging.”
–Lee Kesselman, Artistic Director, The DuPage Chorale
“The Rainbow Chorale of Delaware commissioned both the poem and the music of Into the Blue for its 10th anniversary concert. Andrea masterfully set Susan Windle’s poem. The singers enjoyed Andrea’s entire creative process, from conception, to sketch, and finally to manuscript. Her visits with the ensemble were warm and inviting, and she always left the singers feeling empowered. The music is complex and rewarding without being abjectly difficult, and it is a work that choirs at all levels can perform with pride and strength.”
–Stephen Caldwell, Artistic Director, The Rainbow Chorale of Delaware
Poet of the Body and the Soul (SATB, piano, 2012), 9 min.
Commissioned by The College of New Jersey Chorale, John Leonard, artistic director
Alleluia (SATB- 2015), 7 min.
Commissioned by Mendelssohn Club, Paul Rardin, Artistic Director, in honor of Maestro Alan Harler
Andrea’s Alleluia for Alan Harler glows. A lyrical four-note theme permeates this charming six-minute miniature, winding its way through both lilting, calming refrains and brassy fanfares, culminating in a rhythmic heartbeat of singers’ hands tapping their own chests (could this be Andrea’s own heart thanking her dear colleague Alan Harler for their many years of collaboration?). Thanks to very shrewd voice-leading, Alleluia falls into that category most prized by conductors: “Accessible Pieces that Sound More Challenging Than They Are.” Thank you Andrea — we can’t wait to bring this piece into the world on March 5.
–Paul Rardin, Artistic Director, Mendelssohn Club of Philadelphia
Alleluias for composers Higdon and Clearfield, both composers at their best…entrancing
–David Patrick Stearns, Music Critic, The Philadelphia Inquirer, 3/7/2016
“Poet of the Body and the Soul was the first commission by The College of New Jersey Chorale, and what a fantastic commissioning experience it was! Working with Andrea gives your musicians the experience of music-making in its purist form. It was an absolute joy for my ensemble, pianist and myself to bring her amazing setting of Whitman’s text to life. Andrea’s passionate music and spirit inspired each of us to give our very best to each performance. This is a piece that you cannot wait to share with your audience!”
—John P. Leonard, Director, The College of New Jersey Chorale
Les Fenêtres (SATB, soprano and mezzo soprano soloists with chamber orchestra or piano; 2011), 16 min.
Commissioned by Singing City
Three Tenses of Light (SATB and string quartet or SATB and piano; 2012), 8:18 min.
Commissioned by the Newburyport Chamber Music Festival
Dream Variations (SATB, flute, viola, harp, organ – 2008), 22 min.
Commissioned by The Debussy Trio
“You must program Dream Variations with your choirs!”
–Grant Gershon, Music Director, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Kabo Omowale (Welcome Home Child) (SATB, narrator, orchestra – 2008 – suitable for intergenerational choruses), 18 min.
Commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra
“The music’s broadly drawn strokes touched emotional bases as only music can. It was bound to make the audience jump up and cheer at the end. And it did.”
–David Patrick Stearns, The Philadelphia Inquirer, July 29, 2008
“What an incredible experience this has been, for me and for the chorus! We have really enjoyed the process and are looking forward to a stellar premier tomorrow evening! I’m greatly looking forward to conducting this work, and the impact it will have on our St. Louis audience! Thank you for this tremendous work.”
–Kevin McBeth, Associate Conductor, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Fire and Ice (sop. and bar. solos, SATB, orchestra – 2007), 46 min.
Commissioned by the Handel Society of Dartmouth College
“Fire and Ice was commissioned by the Handel Society in celebration of their bicentennial anniversary. This moving cantata is the first major setting of poetry by Robert Frost since the 1955 setting of Frostiana by Randall Thompson. Andrea’s writing is sensitive, intuitive, and deeply personal. Her commitment to the poet’s intent and colorful, intriguing orchestrations combined with the meticulous care she took when writing for the human voice allowed for Fire and Ice to become a significantly rewarding experience for both the performers and audience alike.”
–Robert Duff, Conductor, Handel Society of Dartmouth College
The Golem Psalms (bar. solo, SATB, orchestra – 2006), 30 min.
Commissioned by The Mendelssohn Club
“Among the many large, choral/orchestra works commissioned by Mendelssohn Club of Philadelphia in the past 20 years, Andrea Clearfield’s THE GOLEM PSALMS is one of the most compelling. Beautifully written for both choral and orchestral forces, it has a direct and powerful impact and it remains a favorite of our performers and our audience. The solo role of the baritone, as the Golem, is brilliant. This is a perfectly balanced piece. Working with Andrea is a conductor’s dream!”
–Alan Harler, Music Director, The Mendelssohn Club
The River of God (SATB, organ – 2003), 7 min.
Commissioned by the American Guild of Organists
“Learning and performing The River of God was an immense pleasure. For once, a new piece that was challenging, but, where the challenges were satisfying, not frustrating. The work itself has a tremendous sense of direction with a glorious climax. I fell in love with Clearfield’s work, thanks to The River of God.”
–Jeffrey Brillhart, Music Director, Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church and Singing City Choir
To the Thawing Wind from “Fire and Ice” to poetry by Robert Frost (SATB, piano, 2007), 5 min.
Commissioned by The Handel Society of Dartmouth College, Robert Duff, conductor
October from “Fire and Ice” to poetry by Robert Frost (SATB, piano, 2007), 6 min.
Commissioned by The Handel Society of Dartmouth College, Robert Duff, conductor
Stars from “Fire and Ice” to poetry by Robert Frost (SATB, piano, 2007), 6 min.
Commissioned by The Handel Society of Dartmouth College, Robert Duff, conductor
Awake at Dawn (sop. solo, SATB, flute, percussion, harp, strings – 2000), 15 min.
Commissioned by The Music Group of Philadelphia
"Andrea Clearfield composed a sweet exoticism…. I loved the work.”
–Peter Dobrin, The Philadelphia Inquirer, May 16, 2000
On the Pulse of Morning (sop. and bar. solos, SATB, chamber orch. – 1994), 30 min.
"Set to a poem Maya Angelou wrote for President Clinton’s inauguration, On the Pulse of Morning might be thought of as a secular oratorio. Hopeful and substantive, Clearfield layers an emotional story over Angelou’s. The composer crafts some beautiful and strong melodies…”
–Peter Dobrin, The Philadelphia Inquirer, March 1996.
Nes Gadol Hayah Sham (sop. and bar. solos, SATB, cello, piano – 1992), 7 min.
For Voces Novae et Antiquae
Diary of Justyna (sop. solo, SATB, saxophone, 2 keyboards, percussion – 1988), 30 min.
Collaborative work with Manfred Fischbeck
Treble Chorus
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with flute, percussion, harp and piano, or strings and piano, 2012), 32 min.
Commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir. Individual movements may be performed separately.
Now Close the Windows, poetry by Robert Frost, (SSA, piano), 3 min.
When I am Woman (SA, piano – 2014) to poetry by Sonia Sanchez, 4 1/2 min.
Commissioned by the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Published by Boosey & Hawkes. Order here.
“When I approached Andrea Clearfield to compose a work based on the poem “When I Am Woman,” by Sonia Sanchez, I knew she would take the meaning and run with it. The energy through her compositional style would be evident in her vocal lines and rhythmic drive. The unique compositional style that Andrea provides in her music allows the singer to engage full-heartedly and the listener is completely taken by her overall musical vision. Andrea’s primal complexity in her music exceeds the traditional techniques and establishes a new and vivid sonority.”
–Vincent Metallo, Music Director, Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Where Everything is Music(2022) for SSA and piano to poetry by Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks. Commissioned by Sigma Alpha Iota. Premiere at the SAI National Convention, Greensboro, NC, July 29, 2022
Home in Me (I. Body, II. Speech, III. Heart-Mind- 2019 – 2022) to poetry by Sienna Craig for SSA, 2 percussion and piano, commissioned by National Concerts and a consortium of treble choirs.
The Kiss (SSAA, cello and piano – 2013) to poetry by Susan Windle. 7:00 min.
Commissioned by the Grand Rapids Womens Chorus. Published by Boosey & Hawkes. Order here. Watch a video of the premiere.
“Working with Andrea Clearfield to commission “The Kiss” was a wonderfully enriching experience for our chorus.She brings so much of her passion to her work, and was very generous in sharing her insights and process with the group. She has an incredible talent of creating texture and making poetry come to life with her music, offering an intense and satisfying experience for all who sing, interpret, or listen to her work.”
–Lori Tennenhouse, Artistic Director Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus
Hagar (SSA and piano – 2011) to poetry by Ellen Frankel. 6:00 min. Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
The Long Bright (sop. solo, SSAA women’s or children’s chorus, also suitable for intergenerational treble chorus, orchestra – 2004), 60 min.
Poetry by David Wolman. Commissioned by David Wolman
“An hour-long cantata on a husband’s poetic response to the death of his wife from breast cancer might have been maudlin and depressing. Instead, this is a terrific piece, uplifting, optimistic, hopeful, featuring a wonderful part for children’s chorus, and a virtuosic role for solo soprano, sung beautifully at the work’s premiere with Orchestra 2001 – surely one of our most successful premieres ever – by the extraordinary Hila Plitmann.”
–James Freeman, Artistic Director, Orchestra 2001
““I really can’t express what a glorious job (Clearfield) has done and how defined … and moving it is,” said Hila Plitmann, a soprano singer who will be the featured soloist in the concert. “There are parts of the piece that are very hard to get through because they are so moving, both lyrically and musically. The combination of the two is just so iridescent and full of light and beauty that you want to start crying yourself while you’re practicing.””
–Hila Plitmann, Grammy award winning soprano in the Daily Bruin, Los Angeles, March 15, 2010
“The Long Bright” (Movement VI from the cantata, arr. for SSAA women’s or children’s chorus, piano – 2004), 5 min.
Poetry by David Wolman. Commissioned by David Wolman
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SATB and SSA choirs) chamber orchestra or reduced scoring with piano, 2012), 32 min.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Shar Ki Ri (Mountain in the east) Treble chorus (SSA) with piano or piano and percussion. Also available for treble chorus and chamber ensemble: flute or clarinet, harp, piano, percussion,– 2012), Sung in Tibetan. 4:00 min. Watch a video of the 2015 Colorado All State Chorus performing “Shar Ki Ri” and “Tse Go La”. Published by Seeadot Music Publishing.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and Pennsylvania Girlchoir
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (SSA and piano, or SSA and chamber ensemble (flute or clarinet, harp, piano, percussion – 2012), Sung in Tibetan. 3:00 min. Published by Seeadot Music Publishing.
Co-commissioned by the Mendelssohn Club and the Pennsylvania Girlchoir
The Shape of my Soul (SSAA, suitable for high school or women’s chorus with string quartet or piano – 2005), 7:30 min.
Commissioned by the Anna Crusis Women’s Choir
Farlorn Alemen (Losing Everybody) SSAA and piano – 2008, arr. 2012), 7 1/2 min.
SATB version commissioned by Nashirah.
“It was immediately clear that Andrea understood Nashirah and our hopes for this commission. Her suggestion of a choral setting of the Yiddish Holocaust poem “Farlorn Alemen” was completely in harmony with Nashirah’s mission and esthetic. We knew we had not commissioned a mere choral piece, but a relevant and contemporary piece of art. Andrea’s music is a reflective and deeply moving commentary on the Holocaust, and should be a permanent piece of the Holocaust artistic canon. It was an honor to premiere this challenging and rewarding work, and we are deeply fortunate to have been a part of its creation.”
–Jonathan Coopersmith, Artistic Director, Nashirah
Jocheved (SSA, narrator, piano – 2000, arr. 2002), 5:00 min.
Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
Jocheved (mezzo solo, SSA, narrator, flute, percussion, piano – 2000, arr. 2002), 5:49 min.
Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
Sarah (SSA, narator and piano; 2000, arr. 2002), 6 min.
Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
Sarah (soprano solo, SSA, narrator, flute or violin, percussion, piano – 2000, arr. 2002), 7 min.
Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
TTB/TTBB Chorus
Long Live the Queen (a her-story of drag) (drag soloist, TTBB, percussion, bass, piano, Part 1: 22 min.)
Commissioned by the Women’s Sacred Music Project
Tse Go La (At the threshold of this life) (TTB chorus and piano, 2013), 4 minutes, a lyrical movement from Tse Go La cantata. Sung in Tibetan
Commissioned by Mendelssohn Club and Commonwealth Youthchoirs
That Summer: A Fantasia on Family (TTBB chorus, 2 percussion, piano 2015), 17 min.
Commissioned by The Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, Joseph Buches, Artistic Director
“Composer Andrea Clearfield and librettist Tom Gualtieri composed their cantata That Summer: A Fantasia on Family, to musically explore the historical arc of LGBTQ people achieving marriage equality in their own country. Inspired by the real-life experiences of members of the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, That Summer powerfully and eloquently expresses the truth, soul and heart of their stories.”
–Lewis Whittington, arts journalist
Our Better Angels (ten. and bar. solos, TTBB, 4 trumpets, 4 horns, 3 trombones, (2 tenor, 1 bass), tuba, 2 percussion, harp, organ – 2009), 40 min.
Commissioned by the Turtle Creek Chorale
“Andrea Clearfield has an uncanny way of capturing the very deepest essence of the texts she sets. OUR BETTER ANGELS is a wonderful example of pairing intense, rich poetry with passionate, fiery music. Singers attach themselves to the words and melodies quickly, and are able to provide nuance early on in the preparation.The complex rhythmic intensity in the orchestration helped make our performances thrilling for singer and audience member alike.”
–Jonathan Palant, Artistic Director, The Turtle Creek Chorale
“Simply Love Them” from Our Better Angels (arr. for ten. and bar. solos, TTBB, piano – 2009), 5 min.
Commissioned by the Turtle Creek Chorale