Josh is a true force of nature; his passion, enthusiasm and love of music knows no bounds. His music is accessible, well-constructed and full of beauty, without being trite or simplistic. He is that rarest of birds in the music world; a terrific composer who is also a talented choral conductor. He’s generous of spirit and time, and is genuinely beloved by his choirs and colleagues. Sing his music and, if you can, get him to work with your choir. You won’t regret it.
— Dr. Justin Smith, Director of the Portland Phoenix Choirs
 
 

Performed by the Arvada West High School Vocal Showcase; Chris Maunu, director; Emily Keelan, piano.

Music by Joshua Rist. Text by Roger Weaver.

"The ground fits his foot perfectly as he runs, each breath fits his lungs. The earth pushes back with its slow spin. While he crosses the golden field of barely, it seems, to him, his body will burst into song.”

Text and Music by Joshua Rist. Live performance by William McLean and the South Salem High School Symphonic Choir at the 2019 National ACDA Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, with Joshua Rist playing piano. My deepest thanks to my friend and colleague for the collaborative work he and his students did to birth this piece.