Composer Notes About the Text: 
The Agnus Dei has been incorporated into countless choral and orchestral pieces of music over the years. If you listen to classical music enough, you will encounter the Agnus Dei quite often. The musical setting I chose for it was inspired by the choral music I experienced through my college choral professor, the late Alfred Skoog. Throughout my time at Arkansas State University, I was introduced to a wide realm of choral music from Mr. Skoog. It was his encouraging words and guidance that led me to indulge in my passion of putting God’s word upon the lips of singers through choral music.

About the Composer: 
Dana Johnson (b. 1975) is a graduate of Arkansas State University where she received her bachelor of music education. While at ASU, she studied choral music with the late Alfred Skoog, who was instrumental in encouraging her to continue composing choral music. Johnson has been composing since age fifteen, and her works have been performed by churches, high schools, and universities; however, her favorite experiences of hearing her music performed have been through her students at Brookland High School in Brookland, Arkansas, where she is currently the high school choral director. She also performs as a vocalist/pianist in Congressman Rick Crawford’s band (Triple Nickel) and has been the choral director/organist at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lafe, Arkansas for over twenty five years. Her passion for a variety of music, as well as performing, has given her many opportunities to share the stage with several award-winning artists such as Lonestar, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Shenandoah, and Rascal Flatts. Johnson currently resides in Lafe, Arkansas, with her husband, Ben, and their son, Bennett Johnson.