Posts by Sam Kauffman
Now available: “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” with new lyrics about a modern-day refugee
I have collaborated with Australian poet Richard Chisholm on a new choral arrangement of “Poor Wayfaring Stranger.” Unlike my earlier versions which use the traditional words, this one has brand new lyrics which tell the moving story of a refugee, a wayfaring stranger who has come to live among us. He’s Just a Poor Wayfaring…
Read MoreNow available: The Wind in the Wheat, co-winner of the “Voices of the Prairie” composition contest
After my composition “The Wind in the Wheat” was named one of the winners of the “Voices of the Prairie” composition contest, I got to attend the premiere by Sonus Chamber Choir in Topeka, Kansas. It’s now available for sale. A recording by Sonus Chamber Choir will be available in October 2026. For many years…
Read MoreNow available: Poor Wayfaring Stranger for solo trombone and brass quintet, world premiere video featuring Peter Steiner
The Intrepid Brass commissioned me to adapt my arrangement of “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” for solo trombone and brass quintet, and they premiered it with the world-renowned trombonist Peter Steiner. Watch it on YouTube. The sheet music is now available: Poor Wayfaring Stranger (trombone + brass quintet)
Read MoreWorld Premiere featuring Peter Steiner
I’ve been commissioned by the Intrepid Brass Quintet to adapt my choral arrangement of the folk song “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” into an instrumental version for solo trombone and brass quintet. The premiere will be in Wichita in February featuring world-famous Italian trombonist Peter Steiner! He may also play it at other locations on his upcoming…
Read MoreWinner of the “Voices of the Prairie” composition contest
I am pleased to announce that my choral composition “The Wind in the Wheat” has been named one of the winners of the “Voices of the Prairie” composition contest, held by Sonus Chamber Choir in Topeka, Kansas. For many years I’ve wanted to compose choral music based on the poetry of the prairie, and this…
Read MoreNow available: Reed Quintet No.1
It started as a trombone quartet. Then it became an award-winning saxophone quartet. Now this piece is available as a reed quintet with optional contrabass clarinet. Reed Quintet No. 1
Read MoreNew arrangement: O Holy Night for SSAA choir
This choral arrangement of the classic Christmas carol balances the familiar with fresh flourishes and allows a soprano soloist to shine. Now available for SSAA, in addition to SATB and TTBB. O Holy Night
Read MoreNew video: Saxophone Quartet No. 2
This piece was one of the winners of the 2024 UConn Saxophone Quartet Composition Competition. This is the premiere, performed at the University of Connecticut. Saxophone Quartet No. 2
Read MoreNew video: Eagles’ Wings (SATB)
The Eastern Mennonite University Chamber Singers performed this on their 2023 European Tour. This performance was at Witmarsum, Friesland, Netherlands. Eagles’ Wings
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