News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

You Want Me to Teach WHAT?!?!? 29 May, 2015

you want me to teach whatWe specialize in panicked phone calls here at Stanton’s.  We’ve heard it all:  “I lost my judge’s copy!”  “I can’t find my Messiah!”  “It’s Christmas Eve and my O, Holy Night is nowhere to be found!”  These examples of immediate panic pale in comparison to another problem we’ve heard more and more about over the last couple of years.  Dazed choral, orchestral and band teachers, many with years of experience, come in and tell us they’ve been assigned to teach elementary general music.  Educators who don’t bat an eyelash at breaking up fights between high school boys in the lunch room or dealing with middle school girl drama are petrified of a classroom full of bright-eyed kindergarteners.

Never fear, Mari Schay and Michael Tolon have come to the rescue.  These self-described “recovering band directors” have successfully made the transition from upper level music teachers to elementary teachers.  In “You Want Me To Teach WHAT?” the authors guide you through this transition, dealing with such diverse topics as:

  • Your own emotions about your new assignment-negative and positive.
  • Getting to know the school, the kids, and the environment.
  • Learning styles and philosophies of elementary general music.
  • Playing instruments, singing, listening, reading and notating, and assessing.

There are also sample lesson plans for every grade level, and appendices about routine and purchasing materials.  The bonus part of this reference is that it is a joy to read.  Mari and Michael share their mistakes as well as their triumphs in a casual, conversational style that is funny enough to make you feel like you’re reading for pleasure instead of work.  If you are facing this challenge in your teaching career, or are a first year teacher who didn’t expect to be teaching this level, give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC and order a copy today.

You Want Me To Teach WHAT? (42787)……………………………………………………………………………..$19.99

Rachel Steele has been at Stanton’s since 2013. She previously taught middle school and high school band and choir for 13 years, and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music education from The Ohio State University. Currently a member of the Heisey Wind Ensemble and a musician at Epiphany Lutheran Church (Pickerington OH), Rachel also enjoys reading, sewing, baking and the Pittsburgh Steelers!


Sonata for Piano, by Justin Dello Joio 28 May, 2015

Dello Joio. 00145153 Does the name sound familiar?  Justin Dello Joio is the son of Norman Dello Joio, so he grew up with composing and the piano.  Justin’s most recent print release is the “Sonata for Piano“.  This work is full of energy and intensity, and is dedicated to Vincent Persichetti,  with whom Justin studied at the Julliard School.  There is a recording of Garrick Ohlsson playing it available at Bridge records  (CD9220).  Especially if you like 20th and 21st century music, you need to check this out!  Classical music is not frozen at Bach, Beethoven and Brahms.  Classical music is alive, so it grows and changes.  Don’t forget our past, and do embrace our future.  Dive in and check this out.  For more information about this or other piano music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs.


The Language of Music – NEW from Tim Seelig 27 May, 2015

language of musicMusic is the universal language. This we know is true. For us as choral musicians, however, there is an added layer of challenge and opportunity: WORDS! How many times have you heard a chorus sing and thought, “That was beautiful, but I have NO clue what they were singing about!”The Language of Music will take you from the most basic tools of delivering text to the overarching and magical communication that exists in choral singing. The book includes accompanying video clips that will guide you to a connection with your audience through your music that will touch everyone: singers and audiences alike!

Also available from Tim Seelig

The Perfect Blend (Book)…………………………………………………………(35022829) $24.99

The Perfect Blend (DVD)…………………………………………………………(35022830) $34.95

The Perfect Blend (Book/DVD)……………………………………………….(35022831) $49.99

The Perfect Rehearsal (Book)………………………………………………….(35022835) $24.99

The Perfect Rehearsal (DVD)………………………………………………….(35022837) $34.95

The Perfect Rehearsal (Book/DVD)………………………………………..(35022836) $.49.95

The Perfect Choral Workbook (Book/CD)……………………………….(35022833) $34.95

Quick Fixes (Book)………………………………………………………………….(35023658) $12.99

The Music Within (DVD)…………………………………………………………(35027237) $34.99


Aretha Franklin 20 Greatest Hits 26 May, 2015

00125964It has been a long time since there was a collection of Aretha Franklin sheet music.  This new publication from Hal Leonard includes twenty hits by the Queen of Soul.  When you hear the song “Respect” or “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”, I bet you hear Aretha Franklin‘s voice in your head.   She has been a very active artist since the 1960’s, and in 1987, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  In 2014, she covered Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep”, which debuted at 47 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.  In so doing, Franklin became the first woman to have 100 songs on that chart.  Welcome back to print music, Miss Franklin! I hope this isn’t the only book of your songs that we see!

For more information about this collection, or those of other artists, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website, http://www.stantons.com.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs.


Happy Memorial Day 25 May, 2015

American flagHappy Memorial Day!  Stanton’s Sheet Music is closed today in observance of Memorial Day.  We will be back tomorrow to answer your calls at 1-800-42-MUSIC or you can shop our website anytime.

 


Pop Song of the Month: May 22 May, 2015

00702196On  May 10th of 1980, Bob Seger’s song, “Against the Wind” hit the radio waves.  It maintained the #5 spot for eleven weeks in a row.  It is still one of the best-known songs by Bob Seger.  Therefore, it is no surprise that we can still find “Against the Wind” in print.  “The Best of Bob Seger” is a book of sheet music for easy guitar containing eighteen Seger hits, including “Against the Wind”.  Reacquaint yourself with some classic rock!  For more information about this music, or other personality collections for guitar, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com. or visit our website. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Instruments, A-Z 21 May, 2015

imagesHave you ever tried to name one instrument for every letter of the alphabet?  Some letters aren’t too hard to name the instruments for: say, the letter “c” or “t”.  We will be choosing at least one instrument  for each month, “A” to “Z” until we run out of letters.  So this month, we start with “A”.  There are different classifications of musical instruments. Idiophones are  struck percussion of various kinds that have no membrane, (think “no drumhead”).  “Agung a tamlang” is in this class. The 2 slit drums are on the left, the 2 beaters are on the right in this photo.  The alphorn is a natural horn, which means it has no slides or valves. The Swiss Club in Columbus, Ohio, has a group that plays alphorns.  An unusual stringed instrument is the Aeolian harp.  People can build an Aeolian harp, but not play it. (Honest!)  Watch for next month, when we feature the letter “B”!


Stanton’s E-Tools: The Stanton’s App 20 May, 2015

smart phonesThe amazing staff at Stanton’s knows how valuable your time is.  That’s why we try to provide you with as many tools as we can to make choosing music easier, faster and more enjoyable.  In this series of blog posts, we will be profiling our E-tools. Whether you are a local customer here in Columbus, OH or one of our many friends around the world, we hope you will find a way to use our E-tools!stanton's bar code scannerStanton’s has an app? 

That’s right, just like everyone else these days, Stanton’s Sheet Music has an app.  It’s called the Stanton’s Bar Code Scanner, and it is available for both Android and iPhone.   Even better, it’s free!

What does the app do?

Our simple-to-use app is just what it sounds like.  It helps you to use your phone or tablet’s camera to scan bar codes on music.  Once you scan, you are taken automatically to the item’s page in our Listening Library.  Within seconds, you can be listening to the sample recording of the piece that you are holding in your hand!  If there is no sample recording of the piece provided by the publisher, you will still be guided to that item’s entry on our website where you will find a description, price, catalog number and other useful information.

How can I make the app work for me?

  • When you are shopping for music in our store, bring your headphones!  As you pull music off the shelf you can scan and listen immediately.
  • Going through your own music library?  Scan the titles you already own to refresh your memory or see if the item is still available to order.
  • When you send your students or church choir members home with a folder full of new music, have them download the app as well.  They can listen, look, and have a valuable listening example at their fingertips!

For questions about how to use the Stanton’s Bar Code Scanner, please feel free to give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC or visit us online or in person!

Previous posts in this series:  Listening Library

This post originally published on Aug. 8th, 2014.


Gospel Treasures for Organ 19 May, 2015

00144550Gospel Treasures is a new release from Hal Leonardwith 35 gospel hymns arranged for intermediate organ.  If you’ve been wanting an organ book of gospel music, this collection is a great addition to your library!  From the perennial favorite, “Amazing Grace” to the beautiful song “In the Garden”, or the rollicking “When the Roll is Called Up Yonder”, to the lyrical “Precious Memories”, this is a gospel library between two covers.  Check it out, and see what this collection has to offer. For more information about this collection or other organ music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs.

 


The Stanton’s Difference: Knowledgeable Staff 18 May, 2015

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music.  Over the next few weeks, we want to take the opportunity to highlight just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

Every teacher has experienced the frustration of trying to explain something musical to a non-musician.  Rest assured, that will never happen when you call Stanton’s!  All of our sales staff are college graduates with music degrees, many of whom have years of teaching experience in the classroom and/or private studio.  Even most members of our non-sales staff are active musicians with a wide range of experiences from rock musician to church pianist!

Want to know what key a piece is in?  The range of a trumpet part?  How difficult a piano solo is?  We will be happy to pull in-stock products for you or research to find an answer.

Our staff also spends hundreds of hours each year listening to all the new releases from countless different publishers.  We select the best of each catalog to become Stanton’s “Top Choices.”  Different from publishers interested in promoting certain products or composers, we make our selections with YOU in mind.  Our staff chooses quality literature to help you make the most of your teaching time and your budget dollars.

Like you, we enjoy flexing our “musical muscles.”  If you have a tricky question, call or email us with your specific needs.  Because we see so many products each year, we are able to suggest resources for almost any teacher, no matter how unusual the request.

To talk with one of the friendly members of our staff, visit us online at www.stantons.com, or give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC!

Previous posts in this series:  10% Educational Discount

Originally published June 16th, 2014


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Instrumentalists 15 May, 2015

The world of a musician or collegiate music major is often foreign and strange to those outside of the profession.  Parents, family and friends are often at a loss as to what graduation gifts might be most useful to high school graduates who plan to major in music, or college graduates pursuing music as a profession.   The members of our knowledgeable staff at Stanton’s have all been in their shoes, and we recommend these gifts (in a variety of price ranges) we could have used when we graduated!

For the high school graduates becoming instrumental music majors:

The A to Z of Foreign Musical Terms by Christine Ammer (4469)…………$10.75

The more a to z of foreign musical termsadvanced a student becomes, the more often they will be using upper level music that is often published overseas.  While standard music terms can be found in a traditional music dictionary, some instructions and descriptions will be written in the composers’ native languages.  This resource lists the terms most commonly found in French, Spanish, Italian, German, Latin and Portuguese scores.

The Musician’s Practice Planner by Molto/Leonard (00311358)……………$9.99

musicians practice plannerStudents are often a little shocked when they find out that they will be spending much more time in the practice room than they did in high school, (most collegiate teachers expect at least 3 hours/day) and staying organized is key.  This easy-to-use 8 “x 11″ spiral-bound book has two full pages devoted to each lesson. Designed to make lessons more enjoyable and efficient, it is used as an assignment book by teachers and as a practice log by students.

Trying to check items off your instrumental studio list? Stanton’s carries a full line of standard method books, etude books and solo repertoire! Visit www.stantons.com or give us a call – we’re sure we can help you find what you need! Oh, and don’t forget – Music Majors get a 10% Discount off most methods, etude books, and solos!!!

bach beethoven and the boysBach, Beethoven and the Boys: Music History As It Ought To Be Taught (0980916713)………………………………………………………………………………$17.95
If It Ain’t Baroque…More Music History As It Ought To Be Taught (0987849281)………………………………………………………………………………$15.95
Accidentals on Purpose: A Musician’s Dictionary (0980916720)………………………………………………………………………………$15.95

Just for fun, we offer a wealth of musical humor writings by David W. Barber.  The more educated the reader, the more fun they will have with Barber’s dry wit and knackfor putting musicians in their place.  Click here to see all of the author’s offerings.

For the First Year Band Director:

Handy Manual Fingering Charts by Clarence Hendrickson (O3876)………….$8.50

fingering chartsYou’re not alone – no one remembers all those fingerings for the bassoon they learned in a methods class 3 years ago!  That’s probably why we’ve never met a band or orchestra teacher who didn’t own at least one of these convenient little reference guides.  It includes fingering charts for all woodwind, brass and string instruments as well as drum rudiments, a transposition chart and ranges.  A must-have!

Instrument Repair for the Music Teacher by Burton Stanley (286)………$22.95

instrument repairThis concise guide for the band director covers the basics of woodwind and brass maintenance and repair. Topics include: changing pads, springs and key regulation for woodwinds, and caring for piston valves, rotary valves, and basic soldering for brasses. Although Stanton’s recommends maintenance and major repair through your local instrument dealer or selected repair shop, this book addresses basic fixes and can get you (and your student) out of a jam.

The Music Teacher’s First Year by Elizabeth Peterson (00317210)…………..$19.95

music teachers first yearFrom a first-year teacher whose instruments were stolen before entering his building, to a teacher who received “hate mail” before her first day, to a teacher whose sensitivity, flexibility and insight gained her the respect of her ensemble in only weeks, this collection of true stories from first-year teachers is a delightful description of their real world. In addition, each chapter includes discussion questions for pre-service and young teachers as they prepare for their teaching future.

Helpful Starting Places for Repertoire:
Teaching Music through Performance in Beginning Band, Vol. 1 (G5337)……..$39.50
Teaching Music through Performance in Middle School Band (G8871)………….$49.95
Teaching Music through Performance in Band, Vol. 1 (G4484)……………………..$53.50

Visit the Marching Band and Concert Band pages  for complete music resources, programming ideas, and more! Also, be sure to give your graduate Stanton’s phone number: 1-800-42-MUSIC, ext. 2! Our staff is a great resource with music knowledge, teaching experience, and full of ideas. Be sure to ask for Ken – he is a former band director who loves working with (helping?) new teachers!

Ken Tilger is a former band director, and has been with Stanton’s since 2004. He is excited to have finally seen Sesame Street Live! He also enjoys comic books, amusement parks, and plays saxophone with Swing’s the Thing Big Band.


Top Country Hits of 2014-2015 14 May, 2015

00142574Top Country Hits of 2014-2015 contains fourteen current country hits. Top country artists are represented;  Kenny Chesney‘s “American Kids”, Miranda Lambert‘s  “Somethin’ Bad”, Rascal Flatts‘ “Payback”, and Carrie Underwood‘s powerful “Something in the Water“, plus ten more.  Guitar chords are included in this book of country sheet music.  So sit down at the piano, or pick up your guitar, and play!  For more information about this songbook or others, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs.


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Jazz Studies 13 May, 2015

The world of a musician or collegiate music major is often foreign and strange to those outside of the profession.  Parents, family and friends are often at a loss as to what graduation gifts might be most useful to high school graduates who plan to major in music, or college graduates pursuing music as a profession.   The members of our knowledgeable staff at Stanton’s have all been in their shoes, and we recommend these gifts ( in a variety of price ranges,) we could have used when we graduated!

For high school graduates becoming Jazz Studies majors:

jazz deckJazz Deck by Brian Switzer (90572008)………………………………….$19.95

Decode chord changes & learn how to play jazz IMMEDIATELY.  By breaking down the complex and overwhelming lexicon of jazz into tangible tidbits of musical information, Jazz Deck helps players take a systematic and hands-on approach to learning how to interpret chord changes. The multi-dimensional presentation is suitable for players of all levels and instruments.

how to play jazzHow To Play Jazz and Improvise by Jamey Aebersold (V01)………………$19.95

This book includes chapters on scales/chords, developing creativity, improv and modes, practical exercises/patterns and licks, Dominant 7th tree of scale choices, nomenclature, chromaticism, scale syllabus, and more. This complete improvisation set, along with Volume 24, MAJOR AND MINOR, can greatly open your ears and improve your playing.  Did you know? To date there are over 130 different Play-Along books from Jamey Aebersold.  Click here to see some of our favorites!

realbookThe Real Book Vol. 1 (00240221)…………………………………$39.99

The Real Books are the best-selling jazz books of all time. Since the 1970s, musicians have trusted these volumes to get them through every gig, night after night. The problem is that the books were illegally produced and distributed, without any regard to copyright law, or royalties paid to the composers who created these musical masterpieces.

Hal Leonard is very proud to present the first legitimate and legal editions of these books ever produced. You won’t even notice the difference, other than that all of the notorious errors have been fixed: the covers and typeface look the same, the song list is nearly identical, and the price for our edition is even cheaper than the original! Every conscientious musician will appreciate that these books are now produced accurately and ethically, benefitting the songwriters that we owe for some of the greatest tunes of all time!

For college graduates in Jazz Performance and Education:

aria light and manhassett standManhassett Music Stand (M48)…………………………………………$57.95

Aria Brio Music Stand Light (BRIO)………………………………….$129.00

Gigging musicians never know what they’re going to find when they arrive at a job.  Floppy stands, bad lighting (or no lighting at all!) and no access to an electrical outlet are common problems.  This Manhasset stand is the choice of musicians everywhere; sturdy, lightweight, and relatively easy to transport.  The Aria Brio Stand Light comes with an LED bulb that lasts for up to 100,000 hours and a rechargeable battery.  Use it plugged in when you can, or charge it ahead of time for 3.5-15 hours of light (depending on brightness.)

 

teaching music through performance in jazzTeaching Music Through Performance in Jazz(G7268)……………….$43.95

Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz CD’s (CD772)……..$39.50
Teaching Music through Performance in Jazz brings together insights from top jazz educators and invaluable analysis of the best repertoire published for jazz ensembles.  Leading jazz educators and musicians contribute chapters on topics such as: “Why Teach Jazz?” by Wynton Marsalis; “A Multi-Cultural Approach to Jazz Education” by Ronald Carter; “Rehearsal Techniques: A Holistic Approach Integrating Composition, Improvisation, Theory, and Cultural Considerations in the Rehearsal” by Ron McCurdy; “The Rhythm Section: The Band within the Band” by Reginald Thomas; and “Promoting a High School Jazz Band” by Ron Modell. In addition, this book includes Teacher Resource Guides to more than 65 of the top jazz charts, broken down into developing, intermediate, and advanced categories. Each Teacher Resource Guide includes vital information on the composer, the composition, historical background, technical requirements, stylistic considerations, musical elements, form and structure, listening suggestions, and additional references.

Teaching Music through Performance in Jazz Volume 2 is due out soon, and Stanton’s own Ben Huntoon is a contributor.  Check with our instrumental department for availability, or for more information and gift suggestions at 1-800-42-MUSIC ext. 2.

Ben Huntoon is the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music. He received bachelors and masters degrees in music from Capital University and The Ohio State University respectively. As a professional trumpeter, Ben is accomplished in a wide variety of genres and has performed throughout the Midwest on many stages over the past 30 years. He also teaches trumpet, coaches brass ensembles and serves on the jazz faculty at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio.


Stanton’s Piano Workshop 12 May, 2015

00-26036On Friday,  August 7, Stanton’s will host a piano workshop presented by Nancy Bachus.   She is one of Alfred Music’s writers and editors.  A teacher, recitalist, and music historian, Nancy Bachus has been a featured clinician at numerous piano teacher organization and music conventions. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, Nancy studied with pianist Eugene List and accompanist Brooks Smith, and more recently she coached with Fernando Laires. Nancy was one of the performers in the original “Monster Concerts” in New York City (Lincoln Center, Radio City and Carnegie Hall), the White House and on the two “Monster Concert” recordings.  Among the titles she has edited are The Baroque Piano, The Classical Piano, The Romantic Piano, and The Modern Piano. Each volume includes 2 CD’s, and insights on the social scene of the time, styles and musical trends that would have had an influence on the composers of that period.

Come join us for this clinic on August 7 from 9:00 – 11:30 AM.  Pre-registration is available by calling us at 1-800-426-8742 or register at the door beginning at 8:30.  This event is presented to you FREE of charge.  We hope to see you there!


Music Major Graduation Gifts – String Players 11 May, 2015

The world of a musician or collegiate music major is often foreign and strange to those outside of the profession.  Parents, family and friends are often at a loss as to what graduation gifts might be most useful to high school graduates who plan to major in music, or college graduates pursuing music as a profession.   The members of our knowledgeable staff at Stanton’s have all been in their shoes, and we recommend these gifts (in a variety of price ranges,) we could have used when we graduated!

For High School Students becoming String College Music Majors:

So You Want To Be a Music Major by Robert Franzblau (00121797)……………………$14.99

so you want to be a music majorThere’s a famous story about a music professor who looked at his or her entry level theory class of bright-eyed freshman on the first day and said, “Look to your left.  Now look to your right.  One of these people won’t be here by the end of the semester.”  Success as a music major depends greatly on a number of factors, sometimes the least of which is talent or ability.  Go in prepared with this book about how to make a successful transition from high school musician to collegiate music student.

 

Harvard Dictionary of Music (0674011635)……………………………………………………………..$54.99

harvard dictionary of musicWe know, we know, there’s an app for that.  Sometimes, though, you can’t beat an old fashioned reference book.  This is the standard against which all other music dictionaries are measured, and every professional has one on their shelves.

 

Strings Attached (00124967)………………………………………………………………..$24.99

strings attachedEvery college student has a crisis moment when they wonder “What did I get myself into?  I can’t do this!  It’s too much!”  Give an inspiring story to read in this moment of self-doubt.  Jerry Kupchynsky, known as Mr. K, was a Ukrainian-born taskmaster who yelled and stomped and screamed, and who drove his students harder than anyone had ever driven them before. Through sheer force of will, he made them better than they had any right to be. Strings Attached tells the inspiring, poignant, and powerful story of this remarkable man, whose life seemed to conspire against him at every turn and yet who was able to transform his own heartache into triumph for his students.

For College Music Majors becoming New String Teachers:

Strategies for Teaching Strings (0199857227)………………………………………………….$64.95
Orchestral Bowings and Routines (0899176062)………………………………………………$21.99
Basic String Maintenance:  A Teacher’s Guide (1974S)……………………………………..$21.99
String Teaching in America: Strategies for a Diverse Society (0739076396)…….$22.99
ASTA (American String Teachers Association) Curriculum (0615439013)……….$49.99
String Clinics To Go: Art of Recruiting DVD (SCG1DVD)…………………………………..$34.95
String Clinics To Go: Getting Started DVD (SCG2DVD)…………………………………….$34.95

Dan Clark has worked at Stanton’s since 1979, primarily with orchestra music and print promotions.  A “working” musician, he’s a classical cellist, a rock & jazz bassist and a folk & country guitarist/singer. His free time is spent with family or reading, gardening, cycling and working puzzles. His series of musical puzzles (RP3 Rebus Puzzle Picture People) can be found on the Stanton’s Facebook page each Sunday.  He also has a reputation as a pretty good joke teller. Seriously.


Graduation Music For Band and Orchestra 08 May, 2015

Uh-oh….Did you forget graduation is around the corner?  Order a new copy of your old standby so you’re sure to have all the parts, or try something new this year!  The instrumental department at Stanton’s keeps plenty of copies in stock so give us a call today!

Best-Selling Arrangements for Concert Band:

Academic Processional & Recessionalarr. Robert W. Smith & Ed Huckeby
012-3874-00 – Grade 3 – $72.00
At last, a fresh and welcome new treatment of the ceremonial “must-haves” – Pomp and Circumstance and Sine Nomine – for the Grade 3 level! Skillfully scored for success even with limited instrumentation, they nevertheless sound full and solid, with some inspired creative touches.
crown imperial

Crown Imperial William Walton/W.J. Duthoit  – 48010656 – Grade 4/5 – $120.00
This “old warhorse” will give your upper level bands something to challenge them right up until the end of the school year.


Fanfare and Processional/Fanfare and Recessional
– by Edward Elgar/arr. James D. Ployhar – BD00492 – Grade 3 – $65.00
THE standard for over 40 years! Featuring Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance, as well as original fanfares and a recessional by James D. Ployhar, this arrangement is a staple of high school band libraries across the country.

Other options for Concert Band

Pomp and Circumstance Elgar/Stanton (Build-a-Band Series with flexible instrumentation) – 026-4066-00 – Grade 3 – $50.00

Pomp and Circumstance Marches Elgar/Williams (themes from all 4 Elgar marches in the Alfred Challenger Series) – 22252- Grade 2 – $48.00
Pomp and Circumstance/RecessionalElgar/Hill & Elledge (correlates with the Best in Class Band Method Book 2) – GB865 – Grade 2 – $40.00

For Full Orchestra-

Crown ImperialWalton/Stone (graduation warhorse for better orchestras) – GMCL013 – Grade 4-5 – $70.00
Pomp and Circumstance Elgar/Whitney (close to original, but somewhat easier) – 33680 -Grade 3.5 – $58.00

For String Orchestra-

Pomp and Circumstance Elgar/Del Borgo (very playable version from an established arranger) – BSO9703 – Grade 2-3 – $45.00
Pomp and CircumstanceElgar/Frost (nice and easy, but still sounds complete) – SO246C – Grade 2.5 – $45.00


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Vocalists 07 May, 2015

The world of a musician or collegiate music major is often foreign and strange to those outside of the profession.  Parents, family and friends are often at a loss as to what graduation gifts might be most useful to a high school graduate who plan to major in music, or college graduates pursuing music as a profession.   The members of our knowledgeable staff at Stanton’s have all been in their shoes, and we recommend these gifts ( in a variety of price ranges,) we could have used when we graduated!

For high school graduates pursuing a degree in vocal music:

IPA Made Easy by Anna Wentlet (42789) ……………………………………………………………$9.99

ipa made easyDon’t worry mom and dad, in this case IPA doesn’t stand for a type of beer.  It’s the International Phonetic Alphabet, a system of symbols depicting vowel and consonant sounds across all languages.  Vocal students spend a lot of time studying IPA, and this handy pocket-sized guide includes online examples of every sound spoken by a professional vocalist.

So You Want To Be a Music Major by Robert Franzblau (00121797)……………………$14.99

so you want to be a music majorThere’s a famous story about a music professor who looked at his or her entry level theory class of bright-eyed freshman on the first day and said, “Look to your left.  Now look to your right.  One of these people won’t be here by the end of the semester.”  Success as a music major depends greatly on a number of factors, sometimes the least of which is talent or ability.  Go in prepared with this book about how to make a successful transition from high school musician to collegiate music student.

Standard Vocal Literature ed. Richard Walters ……………………………………………………$22.99              Available for Soprano, (00740272) Mezzo Soprano, (00740273) Tenor, (00740274) Baritone, (00740275) or Bass (00740276)

standard vocal literatureAll college students complain about the cost of textbooks, but music majors have to spend an amazing amount on the music that they learn and perform.  These standard books are used by most vocal majors, and include online audio access to recorded accompaniments and diction lessons.

For college graduates pursuing a career in vocal music:

When the Fat Lady Sings: Opera History As It Ought To Be Taught by David W. Barber (0987849274)……………………………………………………………………………………………….$17.95

when the fat lady singsWe all need to be able to laugh a little at ourselves.  Whether your graduate is opera specialist or not, they’ll get a kick out of David Barber’s tongue-in-cheek take on this venerable art form.

 

Pitch Pipe (#6459 or #6459C)………………………………………………………………..$29.40 or $31.80

pitch pipeUseful to lots of musicians in a variety of situations, pitch pipes are especially important to vocalists needing a starting pitch when there isn’t a keyboard or other instrument around.  Due to their diminutive size they are easily lost, so you can never have too many!

Teaching Music Through Performance in Choir ed. Buchanan/Mehaffey                                                 (item numbers vary) ………………………………………………………………………………..$25.95-$45.95

teaching music through performance in choirThese are the go-to resource for quality literature at all levels.  The books are a wealth of information, and the accompanying CD sets have high quality recordings of each piece.  While a worthwhile investment, they can be out of reach for those on a first-year teacher’s salary.  Available titles include Teaching Music Through Performance in Choir Vol. 1, 2 & 3 as well as Teaching Music Through Performance in Middle School Choir.  Books and CD sets sold separately.

Rachel Steele has been at Stanton’s since 2013. She previously taught middle school and high school band and choir for 13 years, and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music education from The Ohio State University. Currently a member of the Heisey Wind Ensemble and a musician at Epiphany Lutheran Church (Pickerington OH), Rachel also enjoys reading, sewing, baking and the Pittsburgh Steelers!


Behind the Scenes – True Stories from the Stanton’s Staff 06 May, 2015

questioning girlquestioning girlLife has a way of supplying incidents that make you want to scratch your head in amused bewilderment!  Here are some true “Stanton’s Stories” that made us ask the proverbial question, “?!?!?”

A customer who directs a community band called to order single parts to dozens of band pieces.  Why?  His second trumpet player had his house broken into and the thief not only took valuable musical instruments and equipment, but also stole his 2nd trumpet folder. – ?!?!?

A professionally dressed woman came in to the store to buy a beginning violin book for her child.  This being her first experience, she asked, in all innocence, “What happens when we’re done with the book – do you buy them back?” – ?!?!?

Apparently some people are so sure that “big brother is watching” that they don’t feel the need to provide any pertinent information we could use to help them.  We got an anonymous email from a customer that simply said, “wrong cd.” -?!?!?

We got a call from a school band director who said, “I’ve been calling everyplace to find this piece that’s not published yet – do you have it?” – !!!?

Whatever happened to “Thou Shalt Not Steal?”  Someone once tried to use a stolen credit card to order some sacred church music. – ?!?!?

A school music teacher ordered some classroom books via email and wrote, “We have a new middle school building, so do not send the music to the old 123 Main Street address.”  However, she didn’t feel the need to tell us the new address. -?!?!?

When a fellow ordered some unusual manuscript paper online, we were concerned since it was a very specialized paper that had to be ordered in from Germany.  It was expensive and could take several weeks to import.  We contacted the customer to relay this information and to confirm that this was the product he was hoping to get. He said, “Oh no, just send any staff paper.  I’m a drummer and want to write down some rhythms!” – ?!?!?


End of the Year Awards 05 May, 2015

panicThe end of the school year can be a very busy time.  Final performances are looming, you need to get your room cleaned out, and final grades must be entered on time!  It is easy to forget that end of the year awards are coming too.  Stanton’s carries a variety of gift items for students of all ages, interests and abilities.

If you’d like to get something small for all your students, consider a pencil, pen or eraser.  We have several styles to choose from, and maybe, just maybe, your kids will have a pencil on the stand for the next rehearsal.

Recognize your outstanding students with something they will wear and use as they continue their musical career.  In our jewelry collection you will find something unique and beautiful in lots of different styles.  For your male students, consider a necktie.  You’re sure to see it next year at solo and ensemble!

Graduating students will look back on their experiences in your musical ensembles as some of the best in their high school career.  Those continuing their musical pursuits might find a tuner, metronome, or pitch pipe useful.  Others may love a great coffee mug or water bottle to take along to college.

For questions about these or other gift items, contact our Keyboard Dept. at 1-800-42-MUSIC or email keyboard@stantons.com.  Congratulations on finishing another great school year!


A World Without Led Zeppelin??? (Nooooo!!!!!!!!) 04 May, 2015

OK, if you don’t like rock music, that’s fine.  If you do like rock music, especially classic rock music, you have 00-42832to like Led Zeppelin at least a little.  Their music has always been available for sale on whatever recording medium has been current, and their printed music has never been out of print. That’s not bad for a group that only performed for about twelve years!   Jimmy Page and Robert Plant wrote timeless rock classics for their band. Along with John Paul Jones and John Bonham, they were one of the most innovative, influential, and successful rock bands in history.  This collection of sheet music for guitar, “Led Zeppelin, Acoustic Classics“, is from the Authentic Guitar Tab Edition line produced by Alfred.  There are fifteen selections for guitar in this collection, including “Black Mountain Side“,  “Tangerine”, and “Hey, Hey What Can I Do“. For more information about this collection or other Led Zeppelin sheet music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Sing at First Sight: More Melodies! 01 May, 2015

sing at first sight more melodiesIt’s the end of the year, and singing through those same sight-singing exercises over and over again can really start to get to you.  Why not freshen things up a bit with Sing At First Sight…More Melodies.  While this reproducible collection does correlate with the “Sing at First Sight” series, it can be used with most sight singing methods.  Use this as a review, or as an assessment tool to show progress at the end of the year.  The included data CD has files of all the pages to print or project.

Sing at First Sight…More Melodies! by Andy Beck & Brian Lewis………..$39.99