News & Views Friday, April 26, 2024

“Let There Be Christmas” Wednesday, September 16, 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.


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