Commissioned for the Oregon MEA All-State Middle School Treble Choir, this unique set of two short pieces is a splendid addition to treble chorus repertoire. Featuring two texts by Secretary Sho?tetsu, a Japanese poet and monk of the Rinzai Sect who lived during the mid-Heian period, and written in contrasting styles, the opening, deeply expressive In the Coldness of the Night is followed by the vibrant and lilting Up Above the Winds. The optional violin adds warmth and intriguing tone color to this innovative work for concert and festival appearances. A pronunciation guide and translation are provided for the Japanese lyrics.