News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Is It Halloween, Already????? 30 September, 2015

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recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

No, it isn’t Halloween, already. It’s just that we musicians need to start practicing before a holiday occurs, so we have to start earlier than everyone else. For music teachers, it’s time to start students on their Halloween recital pieces. Stanton’s has Halloween piano pieces at every level, from primer to advanced. Many pieces are available as  single title sheets, while some are found in collections. Keep in mind that many advanced classical pieces for piano that we traditionally associate  with Halloween can be played throughout the year, including “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” by Dukas, used in Disney’s”Fantasia,” and “Funeral March of a Marionette” by Charles Gounod.

For more information about this holiday 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!

About the Author:

Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.


Happy Birthday, George Gershwin! 28 September, 2015

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recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

The collection “Gershwin at the Keyboard” contains eighteen hit songs arranged by George Gershwin. His songs and piano pieces have been mainstays of the American music scene since they were written. This collection contains his first national hit, “Swanee,” and seventeen more arrangements of Broadway tunes. The pieces are written on an advanced level. Other Gershwin piano compositions you might enjoy include his “Three Preludes” and “Rhapsody in Blue.” Happy Birthday, George Gershwin (September 26, 1898)!

For more information about this music or other Gershwin works, 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!

About the Author:

Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

 


Pentatonix for Choir 25 September, 2015

d747565199b4aa8388b50c766d38f5fe.650x430x1by Jen Sper, School Choral Specialist

With their unique arrangement style, tight vocal harmonies, and creative cover performances, Pentatonix is one of the most exciting a cappella groups around. After winning the third season of “The Sing-Off,” they have made masterful use of social media in expanding their fan base and distributing their music. Even if YOU haven’t heard of them, you can be sure that your students HAVE!

“But my ensemble isn’t quite ready for arrangements this difficult…,” or “I don’t know anything about vocal percussion!” you may say. Don’t worry! Here are some options based on the signature PTX arrangements – perform them entirely a cappella for the most authentic experience, or use the optional accompaniments and CDs for added support.

Save the World/Don’t You Worry Child arr. Mark Brymer – an accessible setting of the mash-up by Swedish House Mafia, available SATB, SAB and SSA

Rather Be arr. Mark Brymer – vocal showcase from Clean Bandit, available SATB, SAB and SSAA

Let It Go arr. Roger Emerson – the epic single from “Frozen,” available SATB, SAB and SSA

Silent Night arr. Roger Emerson – a unique arrangement of the beloved carol, available SATB, SAB and SSA

That’s Christmas to Me arr. Mark Brymer – a Pentatonix holiday original, available SATB, SAB and SSAA

White Winter Hymnal arr. Alan Billingsley – this Fleet Foxes cover uses creative body percussion, available SATB, SAB and SSAA

About the Author:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.


Happy 70th Birthday John Rutter 24 September, 2015

by Jen Sper, Choral Music Specialist

E53There’s always a little buzz of excitement in the Choral Department when a new piece by John Rutter comes across our desks. His works feel like old friends, even the first time you hear them – warm and comforting. With his 70th birthday in 2015, both Oxford University Press and Hinshaw Music are re-releasing a number of his most seminal compositions in new Anniversary Editions, with accompanying notes on both the music and performance written by Rutter himself.

Rutter’s work has strong footing in both the school and church choral markets, and an especially strong presence in the Christmas repertoire – his recordings with the Cambridge Singers are as Christmassy as the little drummer boy eating fruitcake!

Much of his secular music is less familiar, but equally well-crafted and memorable. Seeds Grow to Plants sets a lovely and thoughtful text about the cycle of life, and larger works such as When Icicles Hang and The Reluctant Dragon (which includes the charmingly funny Banquet Fugue) are refreshingly creative.

John Rutter was born in London in 1945 and received his first musical education as a chorister at Highgate School. He went on to study music at Clare College, Cambridge, where he wrote his first published compositions and conducted his first recording while still a student. His compositional career has embraced both large and small-scale choral works, orchestral and instrumental pieces, a piano concerto, two children’s operas, music for television, and specialist writing for such groups as the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble and the King’s Singers. From 1975 to 1979 he was Director of Music at Clare College, whose choir he directed in a number of broadcasts and recordings. After giving up the Clare post to allow more time for composition, he formed the Cambridge Singers as a professional chamber choir primarily dedicated to recording, and he now divides his time between composition and conducting.

For more information about John Rutter and his music, please visit his website.

Stanton’s Recommends: For the Beauty of the Earth, Candlelight Carol, Christ Is the Morning Star, Blow Blow Thou Winter Wind, Banquet Fugue, Seeds Grow to Plants

This article was originally posted Jan. 12th, 2015, and has been re-posted today in honor of the composer’s 70th birthday!

About the Author:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, and an active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys eating good food, running (to counteract the good food!) and the Muppets.


Meet the Stanton’s Team – Amy B. 23 September, 2015

We’ve written before on the Stanton’s blog about our knowledgeable staff. Now, we’d like to give you a chance to get to know our staff on a more personal level. Over the next several months, we will be having members of the Stanton’s team take our “30 Questions in 60 Seconds” questionnaire. We hope you will get to know the “real” us, and learn how we might better be of service to you!

amy bAmy is long-time Stanton’s employee in our Shipping and Bookkeeping departments. While Amy may be the smiling face you see when billing your account, our church customers may also know her as the trumpet player at our sacred reading sessions. Currently a member of the Dublin Silver Band, Amy enjoys spending time with her family and cultivating a great love of all things pasta!

  1. What department do you work in at Stanton’s? – Bookkeeping and Shipping
  2. What do you consider your specialties here? – Because I’ve worked in so many areas of the business, I can take an order from beginning to end, completing every step along the way. I believe I might be the only person here who could do that.
  3. How long have you worked at Stanton’s? – 19½ years
  4. What is your favorite task at Stanton’s? – Helping customers on the phone or in the store
  5. What is your hometown? – Canton, Ohio
  6. Where did you go to college? – Ohio State
  7. What is your major instrument? – Trumpet
  8. Where or with whom do you currently perform/teach? – I play cornet with the Dublin Silver Band, a British-style brass band.
  9. What do you like to do in your spare time? – Spend time with my family
  10. What days of the week can you be reached at Stanton’s? – Monday – Friday
  11. What is the last song/piece you listened to? – Three Dance Episodes from “On The Town” by Bernstein.
  12. What is the last song/piece you played/sang? – Kingdom of Dragons by Philip Harper
  13. If you had a chance to perform with three musicians, living or dead, who would it be? – My husband, son & daughter
  14. What is your most memorable musical moment? – My senior year in high school I played the Concerto by Arutunian at Solo and Ensemble Contest. I was so “in the zone” that I didn’t notice anything going on around me and my accompanist. The room had filled with people before I started to play and I was quite shocked to see them all when I finished. It was probably my best solo performance ever.
  15. If you could be instantly proficient on an additional instrument, what would you choose? – Piano
  16. What is the most unusual performance you have ever been a part of? – I used to play in a quintet that performed at the Ohio Village at the Historical Society. We would dress up in period costumes and play for various events at the village. Once we were playing while the vintage baseball teams were warming up before a game and a foul tip came back and hit the end of my trumpet and busted my lip! I was on the DL for a while after that!
  17.  What musical sound or noise do you love? – A great singer
  18. What musical sound or noise do you hate? – Didgeridoo – not sure what that thing’s about!
  19. If you had your choice watching a great concert tonight or performing in a great concert tonight which would you choose and why? – Performing. Nothing beats coming together with fellow musicians and making great music.
  20. If heaven exists, when you arrive at the Pearly Gates, what heavenly ensemble would you like to be assigned to? – Herald trumpets, of course!!
  21. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? – Dog trainer
  22. What profession would you not like to do? – Septic tank cleaner
  23. On a scale of 1-10, how funny do you think you are? – The more relevant question is, how funny do YOU think I am?
  24. Who was your first crush? – Kirk Lombardi, second grade, blue eyes and curly brown hair – need I say more?
  25. Is there anything you wish would come back into fashion? – If something goes out of fashion, it’s probably better left there!
  26. Do you love or hate roller coasters? – Love and hate
  27. If you were a super hero, what powers would you have? – Flying – not sure if that’s a super hero power, but it would be SO cool!
  28. How many pairs of shoes do you own? – Just enough
  29. Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job? – Perfect job. I would get bored otherwise.
  30. If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? – Pasta, pasta, pasta!

“Shout for Joy, Ye People!” 21 September, 2015

recommended by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Specialists

Prepare for Christmas with your church choir with one of these outstanding anthems, carefully selected by our experienced Sacred Choral Music staff:

Comfort, Comfort Ye My People arr. Howard Helvey
This spirited setting of the Goudimel melody is sure to be a favorite for Advent year after year. Scored for mixed choir, piano and optional tambourine, this delightful choral setting and rhythmic accompaniment bring new life to a familiar text.

O Come, O Come Emmanuel arr. Pamela Robertson
This familiar Advent text is paired here with the shape-note tune PISGAH, by our newest composer in the Hope catalog, Pamela Robertson. For SATB voices and piano, this joyful setting truly sparkles with the addition of the optional violin plus 4 handbells, written simply to be rung by singing members of the choir.

Shout for Joy, Ye People! by Victor Johnson
The prophetic scriptures of Isaiah provide inspiration for this festive message of celebration. Set to energizing music, this creative piece is a fresh choice for Advent. Solid part-writing gives each section a moment to shine, and the invigorating accompaniment offers ample variety and flourish. Sensational for sanctuary or concert hall usage!

Come, Let Us Adore Him arr. Mary McDonald
Mary McDonald has filled Gary Hallquist’s Christmas original with a driving energy. After quiet statements of the refrain from “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” it rises in dynamic, pitch, and key until bursting forth with hand claps and capped by a soaring solo. Add Ed Hogan’s brass and rhythm score to complete the fun!

Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming arr. Howard Helvey
This glorious arrangement of the treasured original is scored for mixed choir and piano. A cappella sections are seamlessly woven into the fabric of voices in combination with exquisite accompaniment. There will be countless opportunities to program and appreciate this anthem.

Rise Up, Children, Arise! arr. Mary McDonald
Everyone will want to “rise up” and spread the Good News with this lively, yet soulful choral from Mary McDonald. Absolutely filled with joy and style from beginning to end, it also incorporates “Rise Up Shepherd” and “Go, Tell it on the Mountain” with great effect!

Gotta Whisper, Gotta Shout! by Victor Johnson
Fun and full of energy, this original Christmas spiritual employs distinctive dynamic contrasts that both whisper and shout the good news! Call and response between soloist and choir add interest, and sequencing modulations build to a rousing finish.

Now My Spirit Sings by Lee Dengler
This fresh setting of The Magnificat captures the expressive and worshipful reverence of the moment. “The Sussex Carol” is also gently incorporated, adding a layer of richness to the anthem.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, click here to view our complete Sacred Choral promotion for Fall 2015, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:

Judy Henry has been working in Stanton’s Choral Department since 1975. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from The Ohio State University. A member of the Grove City Chamber Singers, Judy also enjoys reading and spending time with her four grandchildren.

Jennifer Fry is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.


STANTON’S SPOTLIGHT: A Christmas Line 18 September, 2015

Each year, the knowledgeable staff at Stanton’s chooses select titles to promote to you, our valued customers. We listen to thousands of new issues from scores of publishers and composers to present you with the very best in new music for your ensembles. In our new Stanton’s Spotlight feature, we will put a special focus on one piece or resource that we particularly enjoy, and tell you how it can serve you and your students.

A Christmas Line

by Andy Beck and Brian Fisher

Recommended by Rachel Steele and Jen Sper

christmas lineIf you are looking for a new Christmas musical for your middle-to-upper level elementary students this year, look no further than A Christmas Line! We love Andy Beck’s spoof on Marvin Hamlish‘s hit 1970’s musical “A Chorus Line!”

All of your students will play auditionees who want a part in the North Pole’s annual musical. Everyone performs in the opening number, after which your chorus members are “cut” and move to the risers to accompany our finalists. These lucky folks include Seymour, a snowman from a showbiz family; Randy, little known reindeer; Cameron (boy or girl), just a regular kid; and Cocoa, Cinnamon, and Nog, three elves with attitude! A Stage Manager teaches and leads a dance audition, and Mrs. Claus makes a successful last-second plea to audition herself, adding to the fun.

Just like in the original, the part of the director (Santa) is an off-stage character that we only hear and never see, so it’s a perfect opportunity to feature a favorite teacher, principal, local celebrity or even Santa Claus himself!

A Christmas Line might be the production for you if you are looking:

  • to feature 3rd-6th graders in your musical.
  • for a musical with minimal set (just requires a stage), costumes (cute hats would do the trick), and props (the only things you need are audition numbers, resumes, and headshots for the lead performers).
  • to teach a unit about Marvin Hamlisch and/or Broadway Musicals.
  • to feature a small cast of speaking parts but a large chorus.
  • to have a great time with well-written songs and adorable dialogue.

About the Authors:

Rachel Steele has been working in the choral department at Stanton’s since 2013. She previously taught middle school and high school band and choir for 13 years, and holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree 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!

A former middle school and high school choral director, Jen Sper holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.


“Let There Be Christmas” 16 September, 2015

recommended by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Specialists

Presenting a cantata with your church choir is a wonderful way to prepare your congregation to celebrate the birth of Christ. Stanton’s Sacred Choral Music staff highly recommends these cantatas for the Christmas season:

Let There Be Christmas by Joseph M. Martin
This service in song is a joyous celebration of hope and peace for the Christmas season. Using carols, narration, congregational participation and original anthems, this approachable work is the perfect choice for choirs of any size. From jubilant songs of praise to reflective carols of peace, this cantata is filled with moments designed to energize the spirit of the season in your community of faith. Extra musical suggestions offer directors creative options for presentation, and the wonderfully crafted and colorful orchestrations by Brant Adams further enhance the festive potential of this thoughtful work.

The Silence and the Sound by Heather Sorenson
More than just a re-telling of the nativity, this work explores both the mystery and the majesty of Christ’s birth. Filled with original sacred songs and beloved carols, this innovative cantata is not only a beautiful concert moment, but it is a true worship experience. The richness of both contemporary and traditional elements, along with thoughtful narrations, make this work an excellent choice for blended worship styles, and Keith Christopher’s stunning orchestrations complete the package. The perfect blending of artistry and ministry!

Sing We Now of Christmas by Howard Helvey
Exquisite, fresh carol settings are woven together with scripture lessons and poetic narration to create a refreshing celebration of Advent and Christmas. Howard Helvey’s artistry shines in each rich arrangement. Optional congregational readings and singing are included as well, to complete the presentation. The work is as singable as it is effective and inspiring, and will usher in the season of rejoicing with joy and festivity. Create a celebration of the Incarnation with “Sing We Now of Christmas.”

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, click here to view our complete Sacred Choral promotion for Fall 2015, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:

Judy Henry has been working in Stanton’s Choral Department since 1975. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from The Ohio State University. A member of the Grove City Chamber Singers, Judy also enjoys reading and spending time with her four grandchildren.

Jennifer Fry is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.


Voice Lessons in the Choral Classroom 14 September, 2015

by Jen Sper, School Choral Specialist

In many middle school and high school situations, the choral director is the only voice teacher most students will have – what a responsibility! And, what a worthwhile pursuit! Proper vocal technique opens up your choir to a much greater variety of literature, more expressive, sensitive singing, and a more satisfying experience for everyone in the room.

A varied set of warm-up exercises is of course your first step in developing vocal technique in your choir, but today I want to share some repertoire choices that can reinforce these skills.

Litanei (D. 343) by Franz Schubert/arr. John Leavitt
Schubert’s famous art song has been adapted for use with unison chorus accompanied by keyboard or the optional strings, creating an excellent opportunity to develop vocal tone, expression and diction. Perfect for treble, men’s or mixed voices.

Die Forelle by Franz Schubert/arr. D. Jason Bishop
The famous art song by Franz Schubert has been arranged for 3-part treble voices and tells of a casual observer admiring the movements of a frisky fish as it darts below the surface. The tone of the music changes when, to the observer’s horror, a fisherman puts an end to both his and the trout’s merriment by snagging the fish on his hook and reeling him in.

Gretchen am Spinnrade by Franz Schubert/arr. D. Jason Bishop
In this, one of Schubert’s first and most successful art songs, Gretchen reflects on her sudden infatuation with Faust. The piano accompaniment, with its relentless sixteenth notes in the right hand, depicts both Gretchen’s accumulating madness and the perpetual motion of the spinning wheel.

Svegliatevi nel core by G.F. Handel/arr. Brandon Williams
Translating to English “Awaken My Heart,” this da capo aria from Handel’s opera Giulio Cesare has been arranged for SSA voices for a delightful choral showcase. With options for drama and expression, choirs will enjoy the opportunity to experience this work of the Baroque era.

Singing these songs with your choir is a great opportunity to introduce young musicians to art song literature, and the wonderful marriage of music and text contained therein. For more concert suggestions for your ensemble, please contact us.

About the Author:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.


Piano Music from the Impressionist Era 11 September, 2015

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recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel come to mind immediately when we think of impressionism in piano music. Isaac Albinez and Paul Dukas also composed in this style. Impressionistic music focuses on suggestion and atmosphere. It conveys more moods and emotions of the subject rather than a more concrete musical picture. In “The Girl With the Flaxen Hair” by Debussy, we get the impression made by seeing the girl, but we don’t get a clear tone “picture” of her. Ravel’s “Gaspard de la Nuit” also gives an impression without the clear tone “picture” of the subject. If you haven’t tried this type of beautiful music, get a mixed collection of Impressionist composers, and check it out!

For more information about this collection or type of 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!

About the Author:

Barb has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

 


New Church Anthems for Fall 2015 09 September, 2015

recommended by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Specialists

As church choirs start up for the fall and Christmas season, Stanton’s Sacred Choral Music staff has carefully chosen these pieces to be appropriate for a variety of worship styles and services throughout the coming months:

Fanfare and Concertato on The Church’s One Foundation arr. Jon Paige & Brad Nix
Ideal for church heritage services, this treasured song of the faith will invigorate congregational participation. Featuring a fanfare opening, an attractive a cappella verse and a lofty descant, this regal anthem can also be supported by the optional brass, handbells and percussion. Impressive!

Fly Away Home by Pepper Choplin
Contemplative, heart-warming, and set in a simple, folk-ballad style, Pepper Choplin explores the promise of eternal rest promised by Jesus to His followers: “O fly away home. Come and claim sweet heaven’s prize.”

Go Rest High on That Mountain arr. Tom Fettke & Thomas Grassi
Vince Gill’s popular song has been given its first-ever choral setting. Perfect for memorial services of any kind, this anthem has a folk-like quality and soars as it incorporates the immortal “Amazing Grace,” leading to a quiet conclusion.

Be Thou My Vision by Mary McDonald
This old Irish hymn dates from the 8th century though the theme couldn’t be more relevant to the culture in which we live. It is only fitting that Mary McDonald found the inspiration to craft her own melody for this beloved hymn text. The words unfold in a stirring, new way with melody and harmonies that lift and transport them to new heights. The dynamic orchestration by Ed Hogan soars.

More Love to Thee by Timothy Shaw
Praise resounds from every measure of this new setting of the familiar hymn for SATB choir and keyboard. From the quiet beginning to the exuberant ending, we experience a growing dynamic of text and alleluias. This anthem is suitable for any service of praise and worship.

Marchin’ with the Saints arr. Patti Drennan
This rousing setting of two popular spirituals opens with a slower section of When the Saints Go Marching In and immediately segues into a bright two-beat setting of Give Me that Old Time Religion. Closing with a spirited partnering of the two tunes, this is the perfect selection for both worship or concert.

We Sing the Mighty Power of God arr. Anna Laura Page
The sturdy hymn tune ELLACOMBE is given a glorious new setting which skillfully interpolates the Doxology, resulting in a strong anthem of praise and proclamation of God’s power. Easily prepared, yet highly effective!

Give Thanks and Glorify His Name by Lloyd Larson
This spirited and engaging call to give thanks and praise is driven by a rhythmic accompaniment and includes the first verse of “Now Thank We All Our God.” Scored for SATB choir and keyboard, the anthem is accessible for the average church choir.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, click here to view our complete Sacred Choral promotion for Fall 2015, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:

Judy Henry has been working in Stanton’s Choral Department since 1975. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from The Ohio State University. A member of the Grove City Chamber Singers, Judy also enjoys reading and spending time with her four grandchildren.

Jennifer Fry is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.


Meet the Stanton’s Team – Joyce S. 04 September, 2015

We’ve written before on the Stanton’s blog about our knowledgeable staff. Now, we’d like to give you a chance to get to know our staff on a more personal level.  Over the next several months, we will be having members of the Stanton’s team take our “30 Questions in 60 Seconds” questionnaire. We hope you will get to know the “real” us, and learn how we might better be of service to you!

joyce stonebreakerJoyce Stonebreaker is a retired public school music teacher with over 30 years of experience, mostly with high school choirs.  She is currently an active pianist and accompanist in the Columbus area.  Joyce spends her free time playing tennis and traveling.

  1. What department do you work in at Stanton’s? – Choral Department
  2. What do you consider your specialties here? – Choral Music (specifically high school)
  3. How long have you worked at Stanton’s? – This will be my 8th year working part-time/seasonally.
  4. What is your favorite task at Stanton’s? – Helping young and beginning teachers
  5. What is your hometown? – Cleveland, OH
  6. Where did you go to college? – THE Ohio State University (undergrad and grad)
  7. What is your major instrument? – Piano
  8. Where or with whom do you currently perform/teach? – I work part-time at Otterbein University as a staff accompanist. I accompany 2 choirs, studio classes, recitals, musical theatre rehearsals, etc.
  9. What do you like to do in your spare time? – Play tennis and go hiking
  10. What days of the week can you be reached at Stanton’s? – In general, Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays during the months of July-February.
  11. What is the last song/piece you listened to? – The Star Spangled Banner, sung by Marlana VanHoose before the NBA final game
  12. What is the last song/piece you played/sang? – Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, as I was babysitting my friend’s 3-month old yesterday.
  13. If you had a chance to perform with three musicians, living or dead, who would it be? – Sing under Robert Shaw, play piano duets with Frederic Chopin, and accompany Isaac Stern.
  14. What is your most memorable musical moment? –  Playing the Saint-Saens Piano Concerto No. 2 (1st. mvmt.) with the OSU Symphony Orchestra at the Ohio Theatre.  We were kicked out of Mershon Auditorium because “A Chorus Line” was on its first national tour … the best concert conflict ever!
  15. If you could be instantly proficient on an additional instrument, what would you choose? – Oboe
  16. What is the most unusual performance you have ever been a part of? – Singing in a back-up choir for Celine Dion, Barry Manilow, Michael Bolton, and the Judd’s at Polaris Amphitheatre.
  17.  What musical sound or noise do you love? – a perfectly tuned string quartet
  18. What musical sound or noise do you hate? – a very-out-of-tune string quartet
  19. If you had your choice watching a great concert tonight or performing in a great concert tonight which would you choose and why? – performing
  20. If heaven exists, when you arrive at the Pearly Gates, what heavenly ensemble would you like to be assigned to? – My mom’s family orchestra (my mom on piano, uncle on trumpet, one aunt on violin, and the other aunt on flute)
  21. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? – Actuarial science
  22. What profession would you not like to do? – Coal mining … that looks like the hardest job in the world!!
  23. On a scale of 1-10, how funny do you think you are? – Probably about an 8.  I like to tease people, especially those who I like.
  24. Who was your first crush? – A little boy named Johnny B in my Kindergarten class.  I kissed him when we were getting in line for our bathroom break.
  25. Is there anything you wish would come back into fashion? – Children and young adults taking piano lessons.
  26. Do you love or hate roller coasters? I used to love any roller coaster at Cedar Point, but as I’ve gotten older, I get sick
  27. If you were a super hero, what powers would you have? – The ability to solve all conflicts so that there are no more wars … anywhere!
  28. How many pairs of shoes do you own?  Probably around 15.
  29. Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job?  Both!  I’d still like to work, but then be able to give money to all of my nieces & nephews so that they could pay all of their bills.
  30. If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? – Breakfast at Bob Evans.

Fall, Time for New Beginnings 02 September, 2015

00-2104Fall brings the beginning of school.  It also brings new piano students and the return of those who have been studying piano for some time.  Stanton’s carries many of the most popular piano methods for teaching, and lots of standard literature for all ages and levels of players.  We have record books for teachers, and practice records for students.  We have easy piano solos for very beginning students, and Barenreiter and Henle editions for the advanced high school and college pianists.  Browse our website to see what we offer in piano music.  Then give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or go ahead and order online.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!