Words by Emily Dickinson
Music by Richard deCosta

Because I could not stop for Death –
He kindly stopped for me –
The Carriage held but just Ourselves –
And Immortality.

We slowly drove – He knew no haste
And I had put away
My labor and my leisure too,
For His Civility –

We passed the School, where Children strove
At Recess – in the Ring –
We passed the Fields of Gazing Grain –
We passed the Setting Sun –

Or rather – He passed Us –
The Dews drew quivering and Chill –
For only Gossamer, my Gown –
My Tippet – only Tulle –

We paused before a House that seemed
A Swelling of the Ground –
The Roof was scarcely visible –
The Cornice – in the Ground –

Since then – 'tis Centuries – and yet
Feels shorter than the Day
I first surmised the Horses' Heads
Were toward Eternity –

-=-

In the reclusive chambers of Emily Dickinson's 19th-century Massachusetts home, the haunting poem, 'Because I Could Not Stop for Death,' was conceived. Living much of her life in isolation, Dickinson's thoughts often ventured into the shadowlands of existence. This poem, published posthumously in 1890, offers a chilling reflection of her contemplation. The Grim Reaper, a timeless symbol, is portrayed as a carriage driver, guiding the reader through a somber journey that mirrors the ephemeral nature of life. Passing scenes of childhood innocence, maturity's labor, and the twilight of existence, it culminates in the cold embrace of the grave. Her words, etched in a gothic darkness, resonate with the uncertainties and fears of her time, transcending to speak to the eternal human condition.

Because I Could Not Stop For Death

Who Has Seen the Wind?
Words by Christina Rossetti
Music by Richard deCosta

Who has seen the wind?
Neither I nor you:
But when the leaves hang trembling,
The wind is passing through.

Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I:
But when the trees bow down their heads,
The wind is passing by.

-=-
Shrouded in the shadows of the night, this dark downtempo composition weaves a tale of sorrow and mystery. Vocal harmonies echo through haunted chambers, intertwining with ethereal sounds that resonate with the soul's deepest longing. Inspired by a timeless poem, the track invites listeners to journey into a gothic realm where beauty and melancholy dance in an eternal embrace.

Who Has Seen The Wind?

Within the abyssal depths of "Void Calling," unearth a sonic tapestry woven of shadow and eldritch resonance. Conjured from the poetic lore of cosmic enigmas and mystic realms, this aural incantation serves as a gateway to dimensions unfathomable. As haunting melodies entwine with arcane cadences, the listener is summoned into a ritual both sonorous and ineffable—a cosmic pilgrimage through auditory abysses best left unspoken.

Void Calling

Poem by Lord Byron (George Gordon)
Music by Richard deCosta

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o’er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express,
How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.

And on that cheek, and o’er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

She Walks In Beauty Like the Night

Full the the Gunnwales, an epic string orchestral masterpiece that will take you on a journey of bravery, courage, and triumph.

Full To The Gunwales

Buy the sheet music here: http://www.richarddecosta.com/product/serenade-for-organ-pdf-mp3-midi/

Also available:
A Mighty Fortress
Abide With Me
And Can It Be (Sagina)
Be Still, My Soul
Be Thou My Vision
Come Thou Almighty King
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (HyFrydol)
Crown Him With Many Crowns (Diademata) for Organ
Fanfare for Organ
Fantasy from C to D
It is Well (Ville du Havre)
La Moglie Della Mia Gioventù (The Wife Of My Youth)
la via Santa
Lament on Psalm 88
Let Us Rise in Early Morning
Meditation on Psalm 22
Mio Figlio, Mia Figlia (My Son, My Daughter) - A Lullaby for Organ
Of Sculptured Ivy and Stone Flowers
Rejoice the Lord is King (Darwall)
Serenade for Organ
Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne (Margaret)
Sing We Now of Christmas (Noel Nouvelet) 1.1
Settings on Wenceslas
O Come O Come Emmanuel
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Angels We Have Heard On High

Richard DeCosta - Serenade For Organ

A Mighty Fortress
Abide With Me
And Can It Be (Sagina)
Be Still, My Soul
Be Thou My Vision
Come Thou Almighty King
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (HyFrydol)
Crown Him With Many Crowns (Diademata) for Organ
Fanfare for Organ
Fantasy from C to D
It is Well (Ville du Havre)
La Moglie Della Mia Gioventù (The Wife Of My Youth)
la via Santa
Lament on Psalm 88
Let Us Rise in Early Morning
Meditation on Psalm 22
Mio Figlio, Mia Figlia (My Son, My Daughter) - A Lullaby for Organ
Of Sculptured Ivy and Stone Flowers
Rejoice the Lord is King (Darwall)
Serenade for Organ
Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne (Margaret)
Sing We Now of Christmas (Noel Nouvelet) 1.1
Settings on Wenceslas
O Come O Come Emmanuel
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Angels We Have Heard On High

Meditation On Psalm 22

La Moglie Della Mia Gioventù (The Wife Of My Youth) - Organ

It Is Well (Ville Du Havre) - Organ

Crown Him With Many Crowns (Diademata) For Organ

Come Thou Almighty King - Organ

Be Thou My Vision - Organ

And Can It Be (Sagina) - Organ

Grab the sheet music: 
https://richarddecostacomposer.myshopify.com/products/a-mighty-fortress-toccata-on-ein-feste-burg-organ-pdf-score

A Mighty Fortress (Toccata on “Ein feste Burg”) is a fiery prelude with a constantly changing tonal center to keep your attention. The style of the arrangement was inspired by the kind of playing I witnessed in Virgil Fox. YouTube Link

A Mighty Fortress (Toccata) - Organ

PRINT the sheet music now! http://www.richarddecosta.com/product/sing-we-now-of-christmas-noel-nouvelet/

Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne (Margaret)
Sing We Now of Christmas (Noel Nouvelet) 1.1
Settings on Wenceslas
O Come O Come Emmanuel
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Angels We Have Heard On High

Sing We Now Of Christmas (Noel Nouvelet) - Organ

Buy the PDF score: https://www.richarddecosta.com/product/soon-as-i-beheld-thee-satb-organ-pdf-score-mp3/

Music by Richard deCosta

An orchestral, vocal, and percussion arrangement inspired by a 17th-century gazel penned under the pseudonym Farisî. This piece delves into timeless themes of love, heartache, and ineffable beauty, weaving together classical orchestration with Western and decidedly non-Western instruments and rhythms. Captivating vocals bring to life the emotionally charged poetry, set against a backdrop of rich orchestral layers and percussion. Experience a union of historical depth and contemporary artistry.


Fragment of gazel by Sultan Osman II (known as Osman the Young) under his pen name, Farisî (17th Century)

Soon as I beheld thee, mazed and wildered grew my sad heart;
How shall I my love disclose to thee who tyrant dread art?
How shall I hold straight upon my road, when yonder Torment
Smitten hath my breast with deadly wounds by her eyelash-dart?
Face, a rose; and mouth, a rosebud; form, a slender sapling

How shall I not be the slave of Princess such as thou art?
Ne'er hath heart a beauty seen like her of graceful figure;
Joyous would I for yon charmer's eyebrow with my life part.
Farisî, what can I do but love that peerless beauty?
Ah! This aged sphere hath made me lover of yon sweat-heart.

Translated by E. J. W. GIBB

Buy PDF Score

Soon As I Beheld Thee

Buy the score PDF: https://www.richarddecosta.com/product/shall-i-compare-thee-to-a-summers-day/
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? 
Words by William Shakespeare
Music by Richard deCosta

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate.
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And summer’s lease hath all too short a date.
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,
And often is his gold complexion dimmed;
And every fair from fair sometime declines,
By chance, or nature’s changing course, untrimmed;
But thy eternal summer shall not fade,
Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow’st,
Nor shall death brag thou wand'rest in his shade,
When in eternal lines to Time thou grow'st.
    So long as men can breathe, or eyes can see,
    So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.


Dive into the depths of romance with this ultra-romantic orchestral rendition. Enveloping the essence of a classic sonnet, the instrumental weaves a tale of love that is as enduring as a summer's day. Lush strings and warm harmonies invite you to experience a piece that's both timeless and intimate.

Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer's Day - Vocal Duet

The Pessimist
Words & music by Richard deCosta

LYRICS
Nothing to bite but dust.
Nothing to heal but pain,
Nothing to break but bread,
Nothing to count but loss again and again.

Nothing to draw but blanks,
Nothing to fill but voids,
Nothing to build but walls,
And nothing to hear but noise, noise, noise.

Nothing to prove but points.
Nothing to catch but breath, 
Nothing to play but roles,
Nothing to evade but death.

Nothing to find but flaws,
Nothing to change but plans, 
Nothing to hold but emptiness, 
In these shaking hands.

Nothing to trust but doubt,
Nothing to fight but war,
Nothing to get but bent,
Nothing to settle but the fucking score.

Nowhere to get but lost,
Nothing to fear but self,
Nowhere to piss but off.
Nothing to spread but wealth.

The Pessimist

"Come to Me in the Silence of the Night" is a hauntingly beautiful orchestral and choral piece inspired by the essence of a romantic poem. This composition blends impressionist choir textures with the rich, emotive layers of a romantic orchestra, creating an immersive soundscape. The music ebbs and flows like the stillness of night, weaving a tapestry of serene harmonies and deep emotional resonance. Perfectly capturing the ethereal quality of a silent, dream-filled night, this track is a reflection of deep, introspective thoughts and the quiet beauty of nocturnal tranquility.

 Echo
By Christina Rossetti
Come to me in the silence of the night;
   Come in the speaking silence of a dream;
Come with soft rounded cheeks and eyes as bright
   As sunlight on a stream;
      Come back in tears,
O memory, hope, love of finished years.

Oh dream how sweet, too sweet, too bitter sweet,
   Whose wakening should have been in Paradise,
Where souls brimfull of love abide and meet;
   Where thirsting longing eyes
      Watch the slow door
That opening, letting in, lets out no more.

Yet come to me in dreams, that I may live
   My very life again tho’ cold in death:
Come back to me in dreams, that I may give
   Pulse for pulse, breath for breath:
      Speak low, lean low,
As long ago, my love, how long ago.

Come to me in the Silence of the Night

Dryad's Dervish: a dynamic orchestral piece that captures the essence of a mythical forest dance. This vibrant and fast-paced composition, set in 6/8 time, is an exhilarating blend of classical elegance and adventurous spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the depth and drama of orchestral music.

Dryad's Dervish

Dedicated to the memory of my brother Dan on what would have been his 54th birthday. My first and most constant bandmate, taken from us far too soon. Missing you every day.

Also check out the Downtempo Cavern mix: https://soundcloud.com/richarddecostacomposer/great-great-grandchild-cavern-mix

Great Great Grandchild
Words & Music by Richard deCosta 

Great great grandchild… 
Great great grandchild…

 What is filling this old dish? 
Could you eat it? Oh, don't you wish? 
Are you warmed by the glow 
From the fires we started long, long ago?

Is it silent, the once-loud street?  
Do the echoes of joy now retreat?  
Are you haunted by laughter lost, 
In the winds of time, tempest-tossed?

CHORUS 
Great great grandchild,  
What have I left for you?
 Is it safe, is it sound? 
Or did we burn it to the ground? 
Great great grandchild? 
Great great grandchild?

VERSE Is it empty, the chair so dear?  
Are there whispers that only you hear?  
Do you miss the warmth now gone,  
From decisions we made at the dawn?

Is it fading, the evening light? 
Does it signal an endless night? 
 Do you feel the chill in the air, 
From the future we choose not to spare?

BRIDGE
 Did we grow old together, 
Did we  grow rough, tough as leather? 
Great great grandchild?
Great great grandchild?

[CHORUS]

Great Great Grandchild - (PLUR Mix)

Captain Indifference Theme

Great Great Grandchild
Words & Music by Richard deCosta 

Great great grandchild…
Great great grandchild…

What is filling this old dish?
Could you eat it? Oh, don't you wish?
Are you warmed by the glow
From the fires we started long, long ago?

Is it silent, the once-loud street? 
Do the echoes of joy now retreat? 
Are you haunted by laughter lost,
In the winds of time, tempest-tossed?

CHORUS
Great great grandchild, 
What have I left for you?
Is it safe, is it sound?
Or did we burn it to the ground?
Great great grandchild?
Great great grandchild?

VERSE
Is it empty, the chair so dear? 
Are there whispers that only you hear? 
Do you miss the warmth now gone, 
From decisions we made at the dawn?

Is it fading, the evening light?
Does it signal an endless night? 
Do you feel the chill in the air,
From the future we choose not to spare?

BRIDGE
Did we grow old together, 
Did we grow rough, tough as leather?
Great great grandchild?
Great great grandchild?

[CHORUS]

Great Great Grandchild - Downtempo Cavern Mix - FREE DOWNLOAD!

Ladies and gentlemen, step back in time with 'The Chimes I Heard Today', a soul-stirring jazz ballad. This piece, reminiscent of the golden era of jazz, features a classic female vocal style akin to the greats of yesteryear. Let the melodious tunes and heartfelt lyrics transport you to a world of elegant romance and nostalgic charm. A perfect blend of emotion and sophistication, this track is a timeless gem for all jazz aficionados.

The Chimes I Heard Today
Lyrics by Thomas Cleveland Lane
Music by Richard deCosta

A day like any other day,
A dismal one, I want to say.
A day when all joy seems to have flown away.
Is misery to be my dole?
But what now do I hear within my soul?

They sing to me in lovely tones,
I feel it in my flesh and bones,
No longer will we be alone,
Gone the dark days of the past.
Gone the void, so dark and vast.
Emmanuel has come at last

CHORUS
I hear the chimes
So many times,
They ring out loud, so clear in my ear.
But they don’t sound in just my ear,
But deep in the hearts of all gathered here.

And as the chimes so sweetly ring,
Come, let us all rejoice and sing,
And hearken to the hope that they bring.

We wonder what that may allow,
If our Savior’s with us now.
We’ll know Him someday, 
We’ll know Him somehow.

CHORUS

deCosta & Lane - The Chimes I Heard Today (Christmas Jazz Carol Vocal)

Invictus (Sea Epic), a grand epic orchestral piece infused with emotive vocals. This symphonic rendition brings to life the timeless words of the poem, transforming them into a powerful, cinematic experience. Journey through the depths of resilience and the spirit of unyielding determination, as this composition masterfully intertwines classical orchestration with contemporary cinematic elements. 'Invictus (Sea Epic)' is not just a musical piece; it's a profound narrative that resonates with the unconquerable soul within us all.

 Invictus
By William Ernest Henley
Out of the night that covers me,
      Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
      For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
      I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
      My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
      Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
      Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
      How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate,
      I am the captain of my soul.

Invictus - A Sea Epic

The orchestral cover of Miley Cyrus's "Flowers" in a Mantovani style combines the modern pop essence of the original song with the lush, rich string arrangements characteristic of Mantovani's approach. This version emphasizes a symphonic texture, integrating sweeping string sections and a melodious harp, often employing cascading string techniques to create a romantic, full-bodied sound. The arrangement respects the original song's structure while infusing it with a classical elegance, creating a unique blend of contemporary pop and traditional orchestral styles. This Mantovani mix offers a sophisticated, cinematic quality, perfect for both classical music enthusiasts and modern pop fans.

Flowers - Miley Cirus - Orchestral Cover (Mantovani mix)

Richard deCosta

Inner Fire

Official score video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-xgnVYIJbI
Buy the PDF sheet music for organ: https://www.richarddecosta.com/product/a-mighty-fortress-organ-pdf-score/

Believers, gather and lend your ears to the divine orchestration of "A Mighty Fortress is Our God," a symphonic testament of faith rendered in the grandest orchestral fanfare. Here, the timeless hymn ascends to celestial heights, carried aloft by the sacred union of organ, brass, and string. Each note, a prayer; each chord, a proclamation of the Almighty's steadfast love and protection. This rendition, both uplifting and solemn, invites us into a spiritual journey, echoing the majesty of the heavens in every resonant harmony. Let this orchestral fanfare be a beacon, guiding us through the tribulations of life with its inspirational melody, as we join in chorus to celebrate the unshakeable fortress that is our God.

A Mighty Fortress is Our God - Orchestral Fanfare

'Fanfare and Dance in F for orchestra,' a luminous and spirited opus. It is as though the very essence of joy and radiance has been captured in melodic form, echoing the exuberant fanfare of a grand celebration. The piece dances with an energy that is both infectious and uplifting, igniting the soul with its vibrant rhythms and brilliant harmonies. Like a beacon of light in the auditory firmament, it inspires and invigorates, leaving an indelible mark upon the hearts of all who hear it.

Fanfare and Dance in F for Orchestra

A fusion of pipe organ's solemnity, "Lord of the Rings'" mystique, and orchestral grandeur.

Bach Toccata And Fugue In D Minor for Orchestra (Excerpt)

To One in Paradise
By Edgar Allan Poe
Thou wast that all to me, love,
For which my soul did pine—
A green isle in the sea, love,
A fountain and a shrine,
All wreathed with fairy fruits and flowers,
And all the flowers were mine.

Ah, dream too bright to last!
Ah, starry Hope! that didst arise
But to be overcast!
A voice from out the Future cries,
“On! on!”—but o’er the Past
(Dim gulf!) my spirit hovering lies
Mute, motionless, aghast!

For, alas! alas! with me
The light of Life is o’er!
No more—no more—no more—
(Such language holds the solemn sea
To the sands upon the shore)
Shall bloom the thunder-blasted tree,
Or the stricken eagle soar!

And all my days are trances,
And all my nightly dreams
Are where thy grey eye glances,
And where thy footstep gleams—
In what ethereal dances,
By what eternal streams.

Imagine an orchestral piece inspired by a poem about a lost paradise. The composition evokes a serene yet melancholic atmosphere, capturing the essence of a forgotten, idyllic place through sound. The opening is soft, with strings and woodwinds introducing a theme that is ethereal and shrouded in mystery, like mist enveloping an ancient garden. As the piece progresses, the melody becomes more intricate, with ancient trees represented by the deep tones of cellos and basses, their branches heavy and intertwined with the delicate, otherworldly harp and flute melodies that mimic delicate flowers and dense foliage.

A narrow, winding path through this soundscape is suggested by a solo violin, leading to a secluded fountain, represented by a gentle percussion and soft, reflective piano notes, mimicking still waters and their subdued reflections. The color palette of the piece is subdued, with minor keys and modal harmonies in shades of musical green, blue, and hints of gold, suggesting a place of beauty frozen in time yet touched by sadness.

The overall composition blends detailed, nature-focused motifs with mystical, ethereal qualities, creating a bridge between reality and fantasy. The climax is rich and full, with the full orchestra coming together in a moment of enchanting beauty tinged with a sense of loss and longing, before gradually diminishing into a soft, lingering finish that invites the listener into a world that exists beyond the reach of ordinary perception.

To One In Paradise (Poe) - A Lament for Romantic Orchestra

An arrangement of the classic tune by Martin Luther. Composed and arranged by Richard deCosta.

Sheep music is available: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/a-mighty-fortress/21290730

www.richarddecosta.com

Buy Sheet Music

A Mighty Fortress - Organ

A neo-Baroque arrangement of the classic hymn.

Popular tracks by RicharddeCostaComposer