New Church Anthems for Fall 2015 Wednesday, September 09, 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 b
y 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.
