Just like a craft enthusiast who has accumulated more yarn than they can ever use in their remaining life, I suspect I will never finish finding new Catholic songs, even concentrating on Australian artists.
Going through the catalogue at Willow/AOV reminded me about the great Gen Bryant. They sell her collection Send Us Out, which is worth having, especially if you are working in schools. You can also purchase single sheets for various instruments so the whole school band is catered for.
As previously noted, the Catholic school sector is the healthiest part of the the church in Australia, so it is not surprising that so much of the music here comes from people working in schools. That does not mean the songs aren’t usable in a parish setting.
The title track, for example, would work fine as a recessional.
The lyrics are at her site. I made a BIAB backing to sing along with.
She has put up YouTube clips including backing tracks herself.
I soooo hear you in the comment about the craft enthusiast: at at today, I have 1581 items (hymns, books, and people) in my main website, and still 1185 entries in the private blog where I keep notes about hymn that I might write-up.
And it now feels like every time I research one hymn or song, I add 3-4 others to the “maybe one day” list.
Mary
I hope you have the time and inclination to continue all your good work.
Just looking at Michael Herry’s output is enough to terrify me, and I will soon be looking at David MacGregor who looks to be a one man publishing company.
cheers
Geoff