Alyssa Hess Reit
Alyssa Hess Reit
Alyssa Reit is a composer, arranger, harpist, storyteller, and teacher.
For nearly two decades, she composed theatrical-musical versions of classic myths and fairy tales for the arts troupe Singing Harp, presenting shows throughout the New York metropolitan area and Europe to critical acclaim. Other theatrical works include the Japanese tale Inch Boy, the native American story The Star Maiden, several settings of Aesop’s fables, the Arthurian tale The Loathly Lady, the Grimms classic The Brementown Musicians (as part of a grant from Meet the Composer), and three settings of Hans Christian Andersen tales (commissioned by the New York Scandinavian Summer Music Festival ). In the fall of 2015 she wrote, arranged and performed music for The Triumph of Love, a production based on the life and work of Botticelli, which premiered in Italy. In 2019 she was the featured harpist-composer at the American Harp Society Summer Institute, where they presented her newly commissioned work, The Tinder Box.
Alyssa’s non-theatrical compositions and arrangements have been played at events sponsored by Carnegie Mellon University, the Eastman School of Music, the Greenwich Symphony, and the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as at festivals all over the world. Her body of work ranges from solos for diverse instruments, brass quintets, mixed chamber music, and choral pieces, to music for string orchestra.
Recent projects include three commissions: a set of Suffragette songs, a multiple movement work for ten horns and percussion, and a setting of a Lenape Indian Creation myth, for storyteller, harp, and percussion. She recently completed and scored a full length musical, and is currently working on a ballet based on the classic H. C. Andersen tale “The Snow Queen.”
A Moravian Carol
Year: 2021
Duration (in minutes): 3:00
Difficulty: Low (student/pedagogical)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/harp-ensembles
Description: A setting for mixed level harp ensemble of a traditional Moravian carol.
A Potrait of Milton Phibbs
Year: 2021
Duration (in minutes): 13:30
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble, mixed instrument ensemble
Instruments: horn, percussion
Publisher: 7 Stars
Score PDF: A-Portrait-of-Milton-Phibbs.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/brass
Description: Milton Phibbs was a supremely talented horn player and also a composer who wrote music with eccentric sense of humor—especially challenging pieces for multiple horns.
Scored for ten horns and percussion, this commissioned piece is my tribute and portrait.
A few things worth mentioning: Milton was often, shall we say, “a little tipsy,” and sweetly so. The first movement is a nod to that aspect of his character. He was also an avid WWI buff; the second movement is a setting of the WWI song “When the Boys Come Home,” as well as a commentary on war. The final movement is my response to his wild and wonderful music.
Freedom Variations
Year: 2020
Duration (in minutes): ca. 21
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Freedom-Variations-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/brass
Description: Freedom Variations is a full length brass quintet in seven movements, based on the spiritual “Oh, Freedom.”
The Nightingale
Year: 2019
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: flute, harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: nightingale_th-hfls_p_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-nightingale
Description: In this story from H. C. Andersen, a Chinese emperor and his court are so impressed by the fake song of a mechanical bird that their contact with the living nightingale is broken. As the old emperor is dying at the end of the tale, the real bird returns to sing for him, charming Death into sparing the man’s life.
Set for narrator, flute (and piccolo), and pedal or lever harp, with a variety of light percussion played by the instrumentalists. The harpist may also be the narrator.
The lever harp part (34 string) requires advanced lever skills.
Miniatures for Solo Horn
Year: 2017
Duration (in minutes): 1:15; 3:00; 3:45; 1:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo brass instrument
Instruments: horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: miniatures_hnp_4_up_score_-_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/miniatures
Description: This is a set of four contrasting solo pieces: Opening; Rubenstein; Nevertheless, he continued...; Taming the Wild Beast.
They can be played as a suite or separately.
Reverie and Romp
Year: 2017
Duration (in minutes): ca. 5:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Reverie-and-Romp.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/reverie-and-romp
Description: This is a setting of a lively Celtic tune, for eight French horns.
When the Clouds Clear
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): 2:30; 3:30; 4:50
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: when_the_clouds_clear_set__fl2p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/when-the-clouds-clear
Description: The three movements in this composition (“A Difference of Opinion,” “You Can’t Be Serious!,” and “When the Clouds Clear”) are illustrations of inner or outer events, as suggested by the titles.
Demeter and Persephone
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Demeter-and-Persephone-harp.pdf
Text PDF: Demeter-and-Persephone-Storyteller-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/demeter-and-persephone
Description: This timeless myth transports us to the realm of the ancient Greeks, bringing us a story about the mystery of the seasons, a mother’s fortitude, the relation of man to the Gods, and the expansion of Love in the universe.
Set for narrator and lever harp, with light percussion played by the harpist.
Dance of Impossible
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): ca. 9 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: harp, horn, percussion, timpani, trombone, trumpet, tuba, vibraphone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_dance_of_impossible_brenshppercp_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-dance-of-impossible
Description: This is a three part rhythmic work, featuring a lyrical trumpet solo, scored for brass ensemble, with harp and three percussionists.
Excellent for college or professional level performers.
The Ugly Duckling
Year: 2014? Revised 2022
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: English horn, harp, horn, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_ugly_duckling__th-hhns_p_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-ugly-duckling
Description: This famous H.C. Andersen classic follows the young "duckling "as he contends with a world that doesn’t understand or accept him, and celebrates his eventual self-discovery and triumph.
Many of the melodies in the setting are based on traditional Scandinavian folk tunes, making this an especially lovely presentation for school groups.
Set for narrator, French horn, and pedal harp, with colorful light percussion played by the French hornist. The harpist or both musicians may narrate. A version substituting English horn is also available.
Ready
Year: 2014
Duration (in minutes): ca. 2+ minutes
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: horn, trumpet
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: ready_-_br-tpthnp_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/ready
Description: This is a duet for horn and trumpet, intended for college level students.
The Emperor's New Clothes
Year: 2013
Duration (in minutes): 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker, trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: The-Emperors-New-Clothes-SCORE.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-emperor-s-new-clothes
Description: This classic H.C. Andersen tale comically highlights the human weaknesses of lying and pretense, exposed by an innocent child.
The story is set for narrator, trombone, and pedal harp, with an amusing collection of light percussion, played by the trombonist. The harpist may also be the narrator.
Mustard Seed
Year: 2011
Duration (in minutes): ca. 8 1/2 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: unpublished
Score PDF: Mustard-Seed-Score.pdf
Description: A piece for brass ensemble, inspired by the Biblical text "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible unto you."
Currently in revision.
Where?
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 3-4 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo brass instrument
Instruments: trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: where-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/where
Description: "Where" is a one movement concert solo romp — a series of journeys and returns, musically expressed in short melodic adventures separated by regular visits to an opening thematic idea.
“I have played ‘Where’ all over the world to rave reviews...it is one of my favorite unaccompanied solos in a recital.”—Paul Pollard, recitalist
Upon This Hallowed Ground
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 3 min
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: larger chamber ensembles - more than 4 players, woodwind quintet
Instruments: bassoon, clarinet, flute, horn, oboe
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: upon_this_hallowed_ground_wq_p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/upon-this-hallowed-ground
Description: This memorial is inspired by all those who fought and died at Gettysburg.
It was selected to be performed by the West Point Woodwind Quintet, and is dedicated to them.
Mercy of Forgiveness
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): ca. 4 1/2
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: choral, small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: alto, bass voice, cello, harp, piano, soprano, tenor voice
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: mercy_misc_p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/mercy-of-forgiveness-chor-pnohpvc
Description: The text is a prayer based on Christ's injunctions in an excerpt from the Sermon on the Mount. It begins: “Father, bless us with the mercy of forgiveness. Help us to love our enemies.”
The piece is for chorus accompanied by piano, harp, and cello.
Two Folksongs from the Americas
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 2:30; 1:45
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: larger chamber ensembles - more than 4 players, small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute, harp, viola
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Two-Folksongs-from-the-Americas-SCORE-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/folk-songs-of-the-americas-i-harp-duets-entire
Description: This set includes two traditional folk melodies from South America. La Vidalita is a song sung by the gaucho cattle herders of Uruguay and Argentina—very rubato and expressive. Las Tres Damas is a “joropo”-an extremely rhythmic, dynamic musical style, full of offbeat accents and syncopations, with added counter melodies.
Other versions of this set include a harp ensemble version--which has a two harp base of professional players, (with optional easier parts)--and a harp, flute, viola trio.
Short and Sweet VII
Year: 2007
Duration (in minutes): ca. 2:20
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: short__sweet_vii_bqp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/short-sweet-vii
Description: This is the final movement in a set of seven, originally designed to be played in sequence. However, this movement is very successful played "stand-alone." The other movements are in revision.
Earth, Air, Water, Fire
Year: 2006
Duration (in minutes): ca. 3 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo instrument other than piano
Instruments: harp
Publisher: unpublished
Description: This suite based on the elements is currently in revision.
Oisin in Tir na n-Og Suite
Year: 2005
Duration (in minutes): ca. 20 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo instrument other than piano
Instruments: harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Oisin-Suite-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/oisin-suite
Description: A suite composed to accompany the Irish myth, adapted for solo performance. Playable on both lever and pedal harp.
Oisin in Tir na n-Og
Year: 2005
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Oisin-in-Tir-na-N-Og-harp.pdf
Text PDF: Oisin-inTir-na-n-Og-Storyteller.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/oisin-in-tir-na-n-og
Description: This gallant saga from traditional Irish mythology unites the old world of the Fianna with the emerging civilization brought by St. Patrick. The great warrior-bard Oisin’s sojourn in the “land of the ever young” and his shocking return home raises questions of time and scale, as well as man’s relationship to struggle.
Set for narrator and lever harp; a pedal harp version is also available.
Legends of Isis
Year: 2004
Duration (in minutes): 9 min
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: string ensemble
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: legends_of_isis_score_orchunp-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/legends-of-isis
Description: The piece was written to capture the evocative atmosphere of the Temple of Isis in Egypt, and the sounds of an unusual vocal event that took place there. Although written for string orchestra, it is also successfully performed as a string octet.
Three Treasures
Year: 2004
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Three-Treasures-MUSICIAN-.pdf
Text PDF: Three-Treasures-SCRIPT.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-three-treasures
Description: A remarkable story from the Arabian Nights tells about an extraordinary Arabian princess as she sets about gaining three valuable treasures. Her quest takes her through unusual perils, and her cleverness and humility bring her to the prize where all others have failed. Her profound willingness to receive help and instruction uncovers surprising secrets and ultimately leads to the healing of her entire kingdom.
Set for 3 actors and lever harp, with light percussion played by the harpist.
Six Swans
Year: 2003
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_six_swans_th-hps3shphp-5.pdf
Text PDF: The-Six-Swans-SCRIPT-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-six-swans
Description: This is a setting of the tale from the Brothers Grimm, for three female actresses/narrators and harp.
Valiant Little Tailor
Year: 2003
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_valiant_little_tailor_th-hps-2apscore4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-valiant-little-tailor
Description: A clever, light-hearted commoner becomes a king in this hilarious comedy from the Brothers Grimm. Marionettes, wild boars, unicorns, and a host of characters all add to the overall mayhem and fun. The original production used three identical puppets of different sizes.
Set for 2 or 3 actors (one part may be played by the harpist), pedal harp and light percussion (played by the harpist).
Renaissance Suite
Year: 2002
Duration (in minutes): 2:15; 1:45; 2:00; 1:30; 2:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute, harp, horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: renaissance_suite_hhn_p_score_4_up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/renaissance-suite
Description: This five movement suite features settings of music by Byrd, Dowland, Morely, and Playford. The arrangements include the addition of counter-melodies, melodic embellishments, and harmonizations intended to honor the spirit of the time.
The selections can be performed successfully as a suite or independently—a great program opener!
The same suite is also available arranged for harp and flute.
Faith, Hope and Love
Year: 2001
Duration (in minutes): ca. 10 1/2minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp, horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: faith_hope__love_mvt.i_-4_up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/faith-hope-and-love
Description: This piece was conceived from reflections on the meanings of faith, hope, and love. Although in three movements, all three movements are about all three ideas.
Prigione V
Year: 2000
Duration (in minutes): 5:46
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp, piano, viola
Publisher: unpublished to date
Score PDF: il_prigione_v_score_3-20-08-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles
Description: This is the fifth in a series of pieces inspired by the sculptures of Michelangelo, exploring prison and freedom.
Appalachian Brass
Year: 1999
Duration (in minutes): 4:00; 2:45; 3:45
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass trio
Instruments: horn, trombone, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: appalach._brass_br-hntbntubpscore-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/appalachian-brass
Description: An arrangement of three traditional Appalachian tunes: Arise, Arise; One Morning; Sourwood Mountain.
Sine Nomine
Year: 1999
Duration (in minutes): 5-7 minutes
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Sine-Nomine-HpVcP-Score.pdf
Description: Sine Nomine --"No Name" --is a tribute to all that goes beyond words, and can not be named. Scored for harp and cello, it can be performed successfully at an unusually wide range of tempi.
Frog Prince (Faithful Henry)
Year: 1998
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_frog_princeth-hpsp_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-frog-prince
Description: An unusual promise bonds a Princess to a frog and leads to a moving transformation. This classic account of perseverance, courage, and faith from the Brothers Grimm is illuminated with storytelling, movement, and an extensive harp score.
Set for 3 mimes, narrator, and pedal harp; the harpist may also play the narrator.
The original unpublished version is a ballet, set for horn, harp, viola, and piano.
"What a pleasant and refreshing change to see a children’s show not steeped elbow deep in patronizing Panto over-enthusiasm…The Frog Prince’ is a tale regaled by a harp plucking narrator, wonderfully creating moods and atmosphere... Silent flowing movement from the players allows a magical setting to blossom on stage, while an audience, comprising far more three-year-olds than adults, sits mesmerized… A very welcome alternative to conventional children’s theatre.”--Three Weeks
Il Prigione I
Year: 1997?
Duration (in minutes): ca. 7:10
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Il-Prigione-I-SCORE.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles
Description: This is the first in a series of chamber pieces inspired by Michelangelo's profound sculptures depicting men half encased in stone, and half free. It is scored for harp and cello.
Il Prigione IV
Year: 1996
Duration (in minutes): 2:21
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: any string, cello, viola
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: prigione_iv_st-vavcp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/ll-prigione-iv
Description: “Il Prigione” is a series of sculptures by Michelangelo. Each is a man, half encased in stone and half free. Many believe that the statues were intentionally left unfinished, to represent a metaphor for man’s condition. This piece is the fourth of a set of compositions inspired by those sculptures.
American Songs
Year: 1992
Duration (in minutes): 0:07:51
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: american_songs_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/american-songs
Description: This medley of beloved American classics—including Blue Tail Fly, Arkansas Traveler, Shenedoah, and Oh, Suzannah!—is a highly successful concert work.
Reviews:
“...by the time this sequence got past ‘Jimmie Crack Corn’ and ‘Arkansas Traveler,’ and a close-harmony brass rendition of ‘Shenendoah,’ with fragments of‘ Turkey in the Straw’ and ‘O Susanna’ folded in, if there had been an aisle around I would have been dancing in it.”— Paul Kresh, Musical Heritage Review
“Despite the fact that I am not normally drawn to song medleys, I greatly enjoyed the intelligent arrangement by Alyssa Hess Reit...” -- Barry Kilpatrick, American Record Guide
“On behalf of the Eastern Brass Quintet, I would like to thank you for your “American Songs.” It has been a tremendous success in every way,...” - Richard Green, Eastern Brass Quintet
Veni Emanuel
Year: 1987
Duration (in minutes): ca. 3 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: veni_emanuelbqp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/veni-emanuel
Description: A setting of the traditional carol Veni Emanuel.
Silent Night
Year: 202
Duration (in minutes): ca. 1:45
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp, horn, trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Silent-Night-SCORE-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles?Categories=Small+mixed+ensembles++%E2%80%A2%5BWith+Harp%5D%E2%80%A2
Description: This arrangement of Gruber's beloved carol features jazz harmonies and the expansion of phrases. It is scored for horn, trombone, and harp but may be performed without trombone. The harp part may be played also by a lever harpist with advanced lever skills; a lever part as well as a pedal harp part is included.
Golden Bird
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Publisher: Grey Lake Music
Score PDF: the_golden_bird_th-hpspstor_4up-5.pdf
Description: A setting of the classic Grimm's tale with musical accompaniment
Alyssa Reit is a composer, arranger, harpist, storyteller, and teacher.
For nearly two decades, she composed theatrical-musical versions of classic myths and fairy tales for the arts troupe Singing Harp, presenting shows throughout the New York metropolitan area and Europe to critical acclaim. Other theatrical works include the Japanese tale Inch Boy, the native American story The Star Maiden, several settings of Aesop’s fables, the Arthurian tale The Loathly Lady, the Grimms classic The Brementown Musicians (as part of a grant from Meet the Composer), and three settings of Hans Christian Andersen tales (commissioned by the New York Scandinavian Summer Music Festival ). In the fall of 2015 she wrote, arranged and performed music for The Triumph of Love, a production based on the life and work of Botticelli, which premiered in Italy. In 2019 she was the featured harpist-composer at the American Harp Society Summer Institute, where they presented her newly commissioned work, The Tinder Box.
Alyssa's non-theatrical compositions and arrangements have been played at events sponsored by Carnegie Mellon University, the Eastman School of Music, the Greenwich Symphony, and the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as at festivals all over the world. Her body of work ranges from solos for diverse instruments, brass quintets, mixed chamber music, and choral pieces, to music for string orchestra.
Recent projects include three commissions: a set of Suffragette songs, a multiple movement work for ten horns and percussion, and a setting of a Lenape Indian Creation myth, for storyteller, harp, and percussion. She recently completed and scored a full length musical, and is currently working on a ballet based on the classic H. C. Andersen tale “The Snow Queen.”
A Moravian Carol
Year: 2021
Duration (in minutes): 3:00
Difficulty: Low (student/pedagogical)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/harp-ensembles
Description: A setting for mixed level harp ensemble of a traditional Moravian carol.
A Potrait of Milton Phibbs
Year: 2021
Duration (in minutes): 13:30
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble, mixed instrument ensemble
Instruments: horn, percussion
Publisher: 7 Stars
Score PDF: A-Portrait-of-Milton-Phibbs.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/brass
Description: Milton Phibbs was a supremely talented horn player and also a composer who wrote music with eccentric sense of humor—especially challenging pieces for multiple horns.
Scored for ten horns and percussion, this commissioned piece is my tribute and portrait.
A few things worth mentioning: Milton was often, shall we say, “a little tipsy,” and sweetly so. The first movement is a nod to that aspect of his character. He was also an avid WWI buff; the second movement is a setting of the WWI song “When the Boys Come Home,” as well as a commentary on war. The final movement is my response to his wild and wonderful music.
Freedom Variations
Year: 2020
Duration (in minutes): ca. 21
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Freedom-Variations-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/brass
Description: Freedom Variations is a full length brass quintet in seven movements, based on the spiritual “Oh, Freedom.”
The Nightingale
Year: 2019
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: flute, harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: nightingale_th-hfls_p_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-nightingale
Description: In this story from H. C. Andersen, a Chinese emperor and his court are so impressed by the fake song of a mechanical bird that their contact with the living nightingale is broken. As the old emperor is dying at the end of the tale, the real bird returns to sing for him, charming Death into sparing the man’s life.
Set for narrator, flute (and piccolo), and pedal or lever harp, with a variety of light percussion played by the instrumentalists. The harpist may also be the narrator.
The lever harp part (34 string) requires advanced lever skills.
Miniatures for Solo Horn
Year: 2017
Duration (in minutes): 1:15; 3:00; 3:45; 1:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo brass instrument
Instruments: horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: miniatures_hnp_4_up_score_-_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/miniatures
Description: This is a set of four contrasting solo pieces: Opening; Rubenstein; Nevertheless, he continued...; Taming the Wild Beast.
They can be played as a suite or separately.
Reverie and Romp
Year: 2017
Duration (in minutes): ca. 5:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Reverie-and-Romp.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/reverie-and-romp
Description: This is a setting of a lively Celtic tune, for eight French horns.
When the Clouds Clear
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): 2:30; 3:30; 4:50
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: when_the_clouds_clear_set__fl2p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/when-the-clouds-clear
Description: The three movements in this composition (“A Difference of Opinion,” “You Can’t Be Serious!,” and “When the Clouds Clear”) are illustrations of inner or outer events, as suggested by the titles.
Demeter and Persephone
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Demeter-and-Persephone-harp.pdf
Text PDF: Demeter-and-Persephone-Storyteller-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/demeter-and-persephone
Description: This timeless myth transports us to the realm of the ancient Greeks, bringing us a story about the mystery of the seasons, a mother’s fortitude, the relation of man to the Gods, and the expansion of Love in the universe.
Set for narrator and lever harp, with light percussion played by the harpist.
Dance of Impossible
Year: 2016
Duration (in minutes): ca. 9 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: harp, horn, percussion, timpani, trombone, trumpet, tuba, vibraphone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_dance_of_impossible_brenshppercp_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-dance-of-impossible
Description: This is a three part rhythmic work, featuring a lyrical trumpet solo, scored for brass ensemble, with harp and three percussionists.
Excellent for college or professional level performers.
The Ugly Duckling
Year: 2014? Revised 2022
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: English horn, harp, horn, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_ugly_duckling__th-hhns_p_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-ugly-duckling
Description: This famous H.C. Andersen classic follows the young "duckling "as he contends with a world that doesn’t understand or accept him, and celebrates his eventual self-discovery and triumph.
Many of the melodies in the setting are based on traditional Scandinavian folk tunes, making this an especially lovely presentation for school groups.
Set for narrator, French horn, and pedal harp, with colorful light percussion played by the French hornist. The harpist or both musicians may narrate. A version substituting English horn is also available.
Ready
Year: 2014
Duration (in minutes): ca. 2+ minutes
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: horn, trumpet
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: ready_-_br-tpthnp_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/ready
Description: This is a duet for horn and trumpet, intended for college level students.
The Emperor's New Clothes
Year: 2013
Duration (in minutes): 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker, trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: The-Emperors-New-Clothes-SCORE.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-emperor-s-new-clothes
Description: This classic H.C. Andersen tale comically highlights the human weaknesses of lying and pretense, exposed by an innocent child.
The story is set for narrator, trombone, and pedal harp, with an amusing collection of light percussion, played by the trombonist. The harpist may also be the narrator.
Mustard Seed
Year: 2011
Duration (in minutes): ca. 8 1/2 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass ensemble
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: unpublished
Score PDF: Mustard-Seed-Score.pdf
Description: A piece for brass ensemble, inspired by the Biblical text "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible unto you."
Currently in revision.
Where?
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 3-4 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo brass instrument
Instruments: trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: where-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/where
Description: "Where" is a one movement concert solo romp — a series of journeys and returns, musically expressed in short melodic adventures separated by regular visits to an opening thematic idea.
“I have played ‘Where’ all over the world to rave reviews...it is one of my favorite unaccompanied solos in a recital.”—Paul Pollard, recitalist
Upon This Hallowed Ground
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 3 min
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: larger chamber ensembles - more than 4 players, woodwind quintet
Instruments: bassoon, clarinet, flute, horn, oboe
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: upon_this_hallowed_ground_wq_p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/upon-this-hallowed-ground
Description: This memorial is inspired by all those who fought and died at Gettysburg.
It was selected to be performed by the West Point Woodwind Quintet, and is dedicated to them.
Mercy of Forgiveness
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): ca. 4 1/2
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: choral, small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: alto, bass voice, cello, harp, piano, soprano, tenor voice
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: mercy_misc_p_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/mercy-of-forgiveness-chor-pnohpvc
Description: The text is a prayer based on Christ's injunctions in an excerpt from the Sermon on the Mount. It begins: “Father, bless us with the mercy of forgiveness. Help us to love our enemies.”
The piece is for chorus accompanied by piano, harp, and cello.
Two Folksongs from the Americas
Year: 2010
Duration (in minutes): 2:30; 1:45
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: larger chamber ensembles - more than 4 players, small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute, harp, viola
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Two-Folksongs-from-the-Americas-SCORE-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/folk-songs-of-the-americas-i-harp-duets-entire
Description: This set includes two traditional folk melodies from South America. La Vidalita is a song sung by the gaucho cattle herders of Uruguay and Argentina—very rubato and expressive. Las Tres Damas is a “joropo”-an extremely rhythmic, dynamic musical style, full of offbeat accents and syncopations, with added counter melodies.
Other versions of this set include a harp ensemble version--which has a two harp base of professional players, (with optional easier parts)--and a harp, flute, viola trio.
Short and Sweet VII
Year: 2007
Duration (in minutes): ca. 2:20
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: short__sweet_vii_bqp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/short-sweet-vii
Description: This is the final movement in a set of seven, originally designed to be played in sequence. However, this movement is very successful played "stand-alone." The other movements are in revision.
Earth, Air, Water, Fire
Year: 2006
Duration (in minutes): ca. 3 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo instrument other than piano
Instruments: harp
Publisher: unpublished
Description: This suite based on the elements is currently in revision.
Oisin in Tir na n-Og Suite
Year: 2005
Duration (in minutes): ca. 20 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: solo instrument other than piano
Instruments: harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Oisin-Suite-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/oisin-suite
Description: A suite composed to accompany the Irish myth, adapted for solo performance. Playable on both lever and pedal harp.
Oisin in Tir na n-Og
Year: 2005
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Oisin-in-Tir-na-N-Og-harp.pdf
Text PDF: Oisin-inTir-na-n-Og-Storyteller.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/oisin-in-tir-na-n-og
Description: This gallant saga from traditional Irish mythology unites the old world of the Fianna with the emerging civilization brought by St. Patrick. The great warrior-bard Oisin’s sojourn in the “land of the ever young” and his shocking return home raises questions of time and scale, as well as man’s relationship to struggle.
Set for narrator and lever harp; a pedal harp version is also available.
Legends of Isis
Year: 2004
Duration (in minutes): 9 min
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: string ensemble
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: legends_of_isis_score_orchunp-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/legends-of-isis
Description: The piece was written to capture the evocative atmosphere of the Temple of Isis in Egypt, and the sounds of an unusual vocal event that took place there. Although written for string orchestra, it is also successfully performed as a string octet.
Three Treasures
Year: 2004
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Three-Treasures-MUSICIAN-.pdf
Text PDF: Three-Treasures-SCRIPT.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-three-treasures
Description: A remarkable story from the Arabian Nights tells about an extraordinary Arabian princess as she sets about gaining three valuable treasures. Her quest takes her through unusual perils, and her cleverness and humility bring her to the prize where all others have failed. Her profound willingness to receive help and instruction uncovers surprising secrets and ultimately leads to the healing of her entire kingdom.
Set for 3 actors and lever harp, with light percussion played by the harpist.
Six Swans
Year: 2003
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 min.
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_six_swans_th-hps3shphp-5.pdf
Text PDF: The-Six-Swans-SCRIPT-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-six-swans
Description: This is a setting of the tale from the Brothers Grimm, for three female actresses/narrators and harp.
Valiant Little Tailor
Year: 2003
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_valiant_little_tailor_th-hps-2apscore4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-valiant-little-tailor
Description: A clever, light-hearted commoner becomes a king in this hilarious comedy from the Brothers Grimm. Marionettes, wild boars, unicorns, and a host of characters all add to the overall mayhem and fun. The original production used three identical puppets of different sizes.
Set for 2 or 3 actors (one part may be played by the harpist), pedal harp and light percussion (played by the harpist).
Renaissance Suite
Year: 2002
Duration (in minutes): 2:15; 1:45; 2:00; 1:30; 2:00
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: flute, harp, horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: renaissance_suite_hhn_p_score_4_up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/renaissance-suite
Description: This five movement suite features settings of music by Byrd, Dowland, Morely, and Playford. The arrangements include the addition of counter-melodies, melodic embellishments, and harmonizations intended to honor the spirit of the time.
The selections can be performed successfully as a suite or independently—a great program opener!
The same suite is also available arranged for harp and flute.
Faith, Hope and Love
Year: 2001
Duration (in minutes): ca. 10 1/2minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp, horn
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: faith_hope__love_mvt.i_-4_up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/faith-hope-and-love
Description: This piece was conceived from reflections on the meanings of faith, hope, and love. Although in three movements, all three movements are about all three ideas.
Prigione V
Year: 2000
Duration (in minutes): 5:46
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp, piano, viola
Publisher: unpublished to date
Score PDF: il_prigione_v_score_3-20-08-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles
Description: This is the fifth in a series of pieces inspired by the sculptures of Michelangelo, exploring prison and freedom.
Appalachian Brass
Year: 1999
Duration (in minutes): 4:00; 2:45; 3:45
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass trio
Instruments: horn, trombone, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: appalach._brass_br-hntbntubpscore-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/appalachian-brass
Description: An arrangement of three traditional Appalachian tunes: Arise, Arise; One Morning; Sourwood Mountain.
Sine Nomine
Year: 1999
Duration (in minutes): 5-7 minutes
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Sine-Nomine-HpVcP-Score.pdf
Description: Sine Nomine --"No Name" --is a tribute to all that goes beyond words, and can not be named. Scored for harp and cello, it can be performed successfully at an unusually wide range of tempi.
Frog Prince (Faithful Henry)
Year: 1998
Duration (in minutes): ca. 35 minutes
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Instruments: harp, narrator/speaker
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: the_frog_princeth-hpsp_score_4up-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/the-frog-prince
Description: An unusual promise bonds a Princess to a frog and leads to a moving transformation. This classic account of perseverance, courage, and faith from the Brothers Grimm is illuminated with storytelling, movement, and an extensive harp score.
Set for 3 mimes, narrator, and pedal harp; the harpist may also play the narrator.
The original unpublished version is a ballet, set for horn, harp, viola, and piano.
"What a pleasant and refreshing change to see a children’s show not steeped elbow deep in patronizing Panto over-enthusiasm…The Frog Prince’ is a tale regaled by a harp plucking narrator, wonderfully creating moods and atmosphere... Silent flowing movement from the players allows a magical setting to blossom on stage, while an audience, comprising far more three-year-olds than adults, sits mesmerized… A very welcome alternative to conventional children’s theatre.”--Three Weeks
Il Prigione I
Year: 1997?
Duration (in minutes): ca. 7:10
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: cello, harp
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Il-Prigione-I-SCORE.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles
Description: This is the first in a series of chamber pieces inspired by Michelangelo's profound sculptures depicting men half encased in stone, and half free. It is scored for harp and cello.
Il Prigione IV
Year: 1996
Duration (in minutes): 2:21
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: any string, cello, viola
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: prigione_iv_st-vavcp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/ll-prigione-iv
Description: “Il Prigione” is a series of sculptures by Michelangelo. Each is a man, half encased in stone and half free. Many believe that the statues were intentionally left unfinished, to represent a metaphor for man’s condition. This piece is the fourth of a set of compositions inspired by those sculptures.
American Songs
Year: 1992
Duration (in minutes): 0:07:51
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: american_songs_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/american-songs
Description: This medley of beloved American classics—including Blue Tail Fly, Arkansas Traveler, Shenedoah, and Oh, Suzannah!—is a highly successful concert work.
Reviews:
“...by the time this sequence got past ‘Jimmie Crack Corn’ and ‘Arkansas Traveler,’ and a close-harmony brass rendition of ‘Shenendoah,’ with fragments of‘ Turkey in the Straw’ and ‘O Susanna’ folded in, if there had been an aisle around I would have been dancing in it.”— Paul Kresh, Musical Heritage Review
“Despite the fact that I am not normally drawn to song medleys, I greatly enjoyed the intelligent arrangement by Alyssa Hess Reit...” -- Barry Kilpatrick, American Record Guide
“On behalf of the Eastern Brass Quintet, I would like to thank you for your “American Songs.” It has been a tremendous success in every way,...” - Richard Green, Eastern Brass Quintet
Veni Emanuel
Year: 1987
Duration (in minutes): ca. 3 min.
Difficulty: Medium (college/community)
Category: brass quintet
Instruments: horn, trombone, trumpet, tuba
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: veni_emanuelbqp_4_up_score-5.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/product-page/veni-emanuel
Description: A setting of the traditional carol Veni Emanuel.
Silent Night
Year: 202
Duration (in minutes): ca. 1:45
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: small chamber ensembles - 2 to 4 players
Instruments: harp, horn, trombone
Publisher: 7 Stars Publishing
Score PDF: Silent-Night-SCORE-.pdf
Purchase score URL: https://www.alyssareit.com/mixed-ensembles?Categories=Small+mixed+ensembles++%E2%80%A2%5BWith+Harp%5D%E2%80%A2
Description: This arrangement of Gruber's beloved carol features jazz harmonies and the expansion of phrases. It is scored for horn, trombone, and harp but may be performed without trombone. The harp part may be played also by a lever harpist with advanced lever skills; a lever part as well as a pedal harp part is included.
Golden Bird
Difficulty: High (professional)
Category: musical theater
Publisher: Grey Lake Music
Score PDF: the_golden_bird_th-hpspstor_4up-5.pdf
Description: A setting of the classic Grimm's tale with musical accompaniment