News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

First 50 Songs (You Should Play on Ukulele) 29 January, 2016

00149250recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

This book, “First 50 Songs You Should Play on Ukulele,” is a one-of-a-kind collection. It includes “Both Sides Now” by Judy Collins, “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan, “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train, “The Rainbow Connection” from “The Muppet Movie,” “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz,  and more. This collection includes songs from a wide range of artists covering the decades from the 1960s to now. From the Beatles and the Eagles to Train and Jason Mraz, this collection covers a lot of songs and a period of decades. There is something to please everyone in this book, with folk, pop, country and rock songs in abundance.

For more information about this ukulele collection or others, 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!

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.


Organ Music for Easter 27 January, 2016

GetImage.ashxrecommended by Caryn G. and Judy S., Sacred Keyboard Specialists

It’s time to pick the Easter music, already! Two organ solo books to check out are “All Glory, Laud and Honor,” compiled by Michael  Shea, and the Augsburg Organ Library’s “Lent.”

“All Glory, Laud and Honor” includes fifteen organ solos for Palm Sunday through Eastertide. The music is written on three staffs, and the pedal part is somewhat busy. Just this one collection could carry an organist through the Easter season!

Augsburg Organ Library’s “Lent” includes forty-two 0800658973arrangements of hymns suitable for Lent, arranged by some of today’s best arrangers. This is a wealth of material for Lent between two covers. A church organist will turn to this collection year after year.

For more information about these organ books or others,  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!


Join us at OMEA for 2 Band Showcases! 26 January, 2016

by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist –

Hey Ohio band directors – we’re excited that in addition to our annual jazz and orchestra reading sessions, we are sponsoring 2 (count ‘em 2!) showcase sessions at this week’s OMEA Professional Development Conference in Cincinnati!

Motivation, Inspiration, & Differentiation in Your Beginning Band will be presented by Cincinnati’s own Richard Canter (Walnut Hills H.S.) featuring his popular (and newly released 2nd Edition!) Scale & Rhythm Chunks. This session will be on Friday, January 29 at 12:00 p.m. in room CC212. You can also catch Rick immediately after the session at the Stanton’s booth for a meet & greet, to discuss the series, and have a chance to win an “I  Chunks” t-shirt!

Canter Showcase

Assessment with a Purpose: Improving Your Band Students’ Sightreading and Music Literacy Skills (co-sponsored by C.L. Barnhouse) will be presented by composer and educator Dr. Ed Huckeby featuring the just released Sightreading 101, 201, & 301 series. It will take place on Saturday, January 30 at 8:00 a.m. (we know it’s early, but it’ll be worth it!) also in room CC212. Stop by the Stanton’s booth on Friday to meet Dr. Huckeby and discuss this new series (including its assessment component).

Huckeby Showcase

Of course, we will have plenty of each of these series on-hand at the booth, along with a whole host of other arrangements and music education resources – just look for the blue balloon. We look forward to seeing you there!

About the Author:
Ken is a former band director, and has been with Stanton’s since 2004. Now that the holidays are over, the countdown to Kennywood season has begun (opening day May 7!). He has the rest of hockey season (Let’s Go Pens!) and the upcoming releases of Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and Captain America: Civil War to tide him over.


Piano Music for Easter 25 January, 2016

00-34450recommended by Caryn G. and Judy S., Sacred Piano Specialists

March 24 is Easter, and Lent begins on February 14. It’s time to begin the season early, as we musicians do. “What Can I Play for Easter?” is a collection  of late intermediate piano arrangements for Holy Week. Arranged by Cindy Berry, these ten easily prepared pieces are perfect for a busy Holy Week. From “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” to “Jesus Christ is Risen Today,” every day of the week is covered.

A newly published collGetImage.ashxection, “His Sacrifice,” arranged by James Koerts, is a collection of eight intermediate pieces suitable for Lent or Communion. From the rousing “Power in the Blood” to the reflective “There is a Fountain,” this collection of piano solos is a delight.

For more information about these collections or others like them, 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!

 

 

 


Suggestions for Choral Adjudications 2016 22 January, 2016

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

The beginning of 2016 is a perfect opportunity to look back at what your students have learned so far this school year, and to look forward to the new and exciting musical challenges you will present to them in the coming months. As you prepare for your upcoming concerts, festivals, or adjudicated events, we recommend these repertoire choices, carefully chosen from many new and recent publications as the “best of the best!”

for SATB Ensembles
Jenny by Nick Myers
Fluid vocal lines and a sensitive text shine in this powerful, yet heartfelt, recollection of a loved one no longer here with us. Perfectly capturing the essence of love that lives forever, it is both touching and haunting at the same time.

Juravit Dominus by J.M. Haydn/ed. Martin Banner
“Juravit Dominus” was completed by Johann Michael Haydn in 1784 in Salzburg. This edition adheres closely to the autograph score, and is an excellent example of Haydn’s work and of the Classical period.

Carnavalito arr. Will Lopes
This Bolivian folksong is alive with rhythm and movement! Body and vocal percussion give this a cappella setting intensity and drive – a wonderful showcase for mixed choruses in school and community!

Evening Star by Victor C. Johnson
Soaring melodic lines, lush harmonies and an artfully crafted accompaniment grace this gorgeous piece, based on a poem by Edgar Allan Poe. The Cello obbligato adds a special touch to this inspiring and reflective concert work. “O evening star, gently glowing star, fill our souls with peace tonight. Play for us the gentle strains of your symphony of light.”

for Women’s Ensembles
Rosas Pandan arr. George G. Hernandez
This Filipino or Visayan folk song is about joy and love. George Hernandez, conductor of the Saringhimig Singers from San Francisco has captured the native flavor in this rousing arrangement. Selected for the Ron Kean Multicultural series, high school and college choirs will love it.

Ride the Chariot arr. Stacey V. Gibbs
The spiritual comes alive with a plethora of upbeat rhythms and drama in this lively setting. As can be expected from Stacey Gibbs’s spiritual arrangements, a thrilling performance is sure to be given!

Drying Their Wings by Greg Gilpin
Greg’s stunning setting of the Vachel Lindsay poem features an expressive accompaniment that flows and weaves underneath the soaring melodic lines which seem to rise and fall, as if flying. This exquisite text allows for interpretation on many levels and sparks imaginative imagery. Also a wonderful teaching piece, it is a superb choice for concert or festival. A Learning Resource Page is included.

Holla Hi, Holla Ho! arr. Dave & Jean Perry
Arranger Jean Perry first heard this clever German folk song as a young girl singing around a fire at Girl Scout camp. It was so enchanting, she never forgot it. Now set for SSA voices, opportunities abound for teaching rhythmic precision, tonic, sub-dominant and tonic chord relationships, and independent part singing. A wonderful piece that will delight audiences and treble choirs of all levels.

for Men’s Ensembles
The Lone Wild Bird by Richard Burchard
Selected for the Georgia Music Educator’s Association High School All State Men’s Chorus in 2016, Richard Burchard has composed a sensitive and touching melody to this famous 19th century text. The harmonies match not only the text but Richard’s style of warmth. There is no divisi in this piece, it is consistently 4 part men – great for high school.

Hard Times Come Again No More arr. Alice Parker
One of the sweetest of Stephen Foster’s songs, balancing nostalgia with heartfelt lament. Seems made for male chorus, with the kind of piano or guitar accompaniment that would’ve been found in 19th century homes. Very accessible vocal writing with a simple accompaniment, making this a fantastic option for every men’s chorus.

Gloria by Antonio Vivaldi/arr. John Leavitt
From Vivaldi’s ever-popular Gloria, this is the joyous opening movement arranged for male voices. An excellent selection for concert or festival!

Goin’ Down to Cairo arr. Jeanne Julseth
Specifically designed for young men’s voices, Jeanne’s rousing, spirited arrangement features a vocal hoedown section which terraces the vocal parts one by one until there is a sense of vocal energy which demands a sudden ending to the frenzy. Several surprises occur along the way utilizing rhythmic repetition which is indicative of folk music. The tenor line resides within a cambiata register, staying true to the beginning stages of unchanged voices.

Click here for all of our suggestions for select pieces for adjudicated events – while we have specifically geared these selections to be appropriate for Ohio Music Education Association events, this quality repertoire is sure to be successful on any spring concert or other event as well! For even more recommendations, 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.


Edgar Allan Poe in the Choral Classroom 20 January, 2016

recommended by Rachel Steele and Jen Sper, School Choral Specialists

When we think of Edgar Allan Poe, poems like “The Raven” and stories like “The Tell-Tale Heart” come to mind. Sometimes we forget that this American master wrote not only of the supernatural, but more traditional subjects as well. Here are two new chorals that we love with completely different moods by this master of the macabre!

evening starEvening Star by Victor C. Johnson

Poe’s ode to the beauty of the moon is the complete opposite of what we expect from a Poe text. “O evening star, gently glowing star, fill our souls with peace tonight. Play for us the gentle strains of your symphony of light.” This beautiful piece is precisely what we love to see from Victor Johnson: a beautiful masterwork text, a soaring melody, interesting (but not difficult) harmonies and a well-crafted piano part make this a perfect piece for your fall/holiday program or concert/festival performances later in the year. Available in SATBThree-Part Mixed, and SSA.

 

lakeThe Lake by Jay Althouse

This piece, on the other hand, will make sure you never enjoy a vacation by the water again! “My infant spirit would awake; To the terror of the lone lake.” Dissonant harmonies and staccato singing make this a fun challenge for your group. The slower middle section is packed with fermate and caesurae, making it a wonderful opportunity for less experienced groups to work on expression and interpretation of conducting gestures. Available in SATB.

Extension activities abound when you program both of these pieces on the same concert. Consider slide shows or artwork with each piece, or partner with your language arts department for an entire Poe week right around Halloween. The possibilities are endless!

For more recommendations give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC ext. 1 or check out the “Favorite Texts/Poets” section of our Listening Lab.

About the Authors:

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!

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.


Pajama Party! 18 January, 2016


pajama partyPajama Party!

A Musical Revue About How Bedtime Can Be a Blast!

by Cristi Cary Miller and Jay Michael Ferguson
recommended by Rachel Steele and Jen Sper, School Music Specialists

When we review the scores of new products we receive each year for elementary general music teachers, one of the key things we look for are products that have clearly been “teacher tested, teacher approved.” It is obvious from the very first page that Pajama Party! falls into that category.

This musical for K-2 students is so adorable that you’ll want to start doing a musical with your early elementary students even if you’ve never attempted one before. Each of the songs is in a different musical style, and is about a different part of the bedtime routine. “Marching Orders” tells kids to pick up their toys and head for the bathtub in a fun march style. “Under My Bed” faces that scary monster that lurks in the shadows. Our personal favorite is the soft shoe-style partner dance “Cozy Special Friend,” where each student dances with their favorite teddy, blankie or doll. The cuteness knows no bounds!

Staging this musical is a breeze. Students play themselves and come in their favorite PJ’s, while a simple patchwork quilt-like backdrop can be made by hanging students’ old baby blankets. The rhyming script can be performed by as many or as few students as you like. There are no formal parts to cast!

This musical is an all-in-one package with a teacher book and a CD-ROM that includes performance and accompaniment tracks for each song as well as reproducible student songsheets, lyric pages and the script for just $49.99. Suggestions for choreography and staging are also included.

Have a great time with your younger students and throw a Pajama Party this spring!

For more recommendations for early elementary musicals, give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC ext. 1 or visit our Pinterest board, where we post our favorites for this age group.

About the authors:

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!

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.


Church Cantatas for Lent & Easter 2016 15 January, 2016

recommended by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Lead your congregation in Holy Week and Easter worship with one of these dynamic cantatas, as recommended by Stanton’s expert Sacred Choral Music staff!

35030635A Journey to Hope by Joseph M. Martin
This major sacred work is musically inspired by traditional spirituals and tells of the ministry, passion and resurrection of Jesus through familiar repurposed tunes, narration and scriptures. Two endings are provided, one for Holy Week and one with a jubilant Easter finale, making this a versatile and inspiring work for a variety of Spring programming. From the rhythmic vitality of “Ride On, King Jesus” to the languishing strains of “They Crucified My Lord,” from the stately dignity of “Give Me Jesus” to the festive joy of “Great Day,” this work delivers both ministry and artistry. Whether presented with Brant Adams’ inspired orchestrations, or with piano alone, you will find “A Journey to Hope” a unique and effective cantata experience.

The Alleluia Tree by Mark Hayes
The shame and pain of the cross was transformed into a triumphant symbol of hope through the message of Easter. This well-crafted 25-minute five song cantata beautifully and poetically depicts the Easter journey with fresh songs and familiar hymns…from reflection to resurrection. It’s easily prepared, yet powerful, and perfect for large and small choirs alike. It can be performed as a complete cantata or as separate anthems during Lent, Holy Week, and Easter.

A Living Hope by Tom Fettke & Thomas Grassi
Even Jesus’ closest friends doubted His promise: “In three days I will rise again.” However, Christ triumphed over death, and through His resurrection, those who follow Him have a new and “Living Hope.” This cornerstone of our faith serves as the foundation for Tom Fettke and Thomas Grassi’s impassioned extended work for Easter. Distinguished by its use of nineteenth-century American hymnody, Shaker melodies, and spirituals, this celebratory cantata also includes the option for three soloists and six narrations for one or more readers. Michael Lawrence’s powerful orchestration adds to the brilliance of this hope-filled work that is sure to engage your choir and congregation in celebration of the risen Christ!

For more recommendations for your church choir during the upcoming Lenten and Easter season, please call 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.


The Great Irish Songbook 13 January, 2016

Stanton's Sheet Music

great irish songbookSaint Patrick’s Day is coming!  Dan Fox has arranged a book of Irish sheet music for easy piano with guitar chords and words to the songs.  Some jigs, reels and hornpipes have been included as well.  There are some traditional Irish songs, and quite a few Irish-American songs.  There are over eighty selections for Saint Patrick’s Day, so you won’t run out of music!  For more information about this book of Irish songs or others, call 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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“A Cappella” by Deke Sharon 13 January, 2016

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

We’re excited to announce that the new resource book from a cappella master Deke Sharon, “A Cappella” is NOW AVAILABLE!

More than any other person, Deke is responsible for the current success of pop a cappella. Founder of the House Jacks (the original “rock band without instruments”), Deke continues to influence through his work with “The Sing-Off,” “Pitch Perfect,” “Pitch Perfect 2,” and “Vocalosity.”

Combine Deke’s expertise with that of directors Ben Spalding and Brody McDonald, add a foreword by Ben Folds, throw in advice from contributors like Peter Hollens, and you have the most comprehensive volume ever created on the subject of contemporary a cappella singing.

Find more valuable a cappella resources on our website, or contact us for more information!

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.


Meet the Stanton’s Team – Phyllis S. 11 January, 2016

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!

Phyllis SnedekerPhyllis S. is Stanton’s longest-serving employee – she’s been here almost 50 years! She’s also one of just a few of our current staff who worked side-by-side with our company founder, John Stanton. An accomplished performer and woodwind studio teacher, Phyllis is a valuable member of our Keyboard and Popular Music department, and is always happy to help our customers! (Phyllis answered a shortened list of questions from our questionnaire – she comes in at 17 answers!) :)

1. What department do you work in at Stanton’s? – I work in the Keyboard and Popular Music department.

2. What do you consider your specialties here? – I have no “specialty” in this department, just many years of knowledge!

3. How long have you been working at Stanton’s? – I started working at Stanton’s in January of 1968 when the store was located near the Ohio Theater on State Street. I have seen Stanton’s grow, change locations, and go through many improvements in the years I have worked here.

4. What is your favorite task at Stanton’s? – I enjoy working at Stanton’s whether it is helping a customer or just putting stock away. I try to do whatever needs to be done!

5. What is your hometown? – I was born in Sturgis, Michigan.

6. Where did you go to college? – I graduated from the University of Michigan School of Music with a degree in Music Education, and was a member of the University Symphonic Band directed by the renowned teacher and conductor, Dr. William D. Revelli.

7. What is your major instrument? – Alto saxophone, although I am proficient on all of the woodwinds.

8. Where or with whom do you currently perform/teach? – I no longer perform or teach due to severe arthritis in my hands. I did perform with many musical groups in Columbus, Indiana, and Michigan and also taught woodwinds privately in those places. My husband, Paul, and I received the Community Music Educator Award from the Columbus Symphony Orchestra in 2007.

9. What do you like to do in your spare time? – In my spare time, I like to read, watch sports, and spend time with my family and friends. I also like to travel – I have been to Russia, Cuba (during the Batista era), Europe twice, and I most recently had a wonderful trip to Alaska.

10. What days are you available at Stanton’s? – I now work just two days a week.

11. What is the last song/piece you listened to? – I like to listen to all kinds of Classical music.

12. What is your most memorable musical moment? – The University of Michigan hosted the American Bandmasters Convention while I was in college, and I had the privilege of playing under many notable composers and conductors including Percy Grainger, Robert Russell Bennet, and Henry Fillmore.

13. What is the most unusual performance you have ever been a part of? – The most unusual performance I was a part of happened during a concert while in college. We were playing Wagner’s “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral” and the big climax near the end has a big cymbal crash, and the person who was playing the part struck the cymbals with such an upward force that the cymbal flew out of his hand and crashed to the floor. Needless to say, the conductor was very unhappy!

14. What musical sound or noise do you love? – A beautiful woodwind soloist.

15. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? – If I had not chosen music as a profession, I would have been a third grade teacher. I did teach third grade for a couple years during a shortage of teachers and I enjoyed it.

15. Is there anything you wish would come back into fashion? – If I had a choice to change the popular music of today, I would prefer the music of the 30s through the 70s.

16. Do you love or hate roller coasters? – When I was younger I liked riding in roller coasters!

17. Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job? – If I would win the lottery I would share it with my family, charities and travel. I have worked long enough!


Fiddle Tunes for Baritone Ukulele 08 January, 2016

00153260This collection of sheet music for baritone uke is a fun mix of American, Irish and Scottish fiddle tunes arranged for baritone uke.  (You can also play them on the top four strings of a guitar.)  This book includes Online Audio, which lets you stream or download the recording of the tunes.  There are fifty-five tunes to choose from, which include chord symbols for anyone who wants to strum along.  This is great entertainment, either for yourself or to share with friends!  For more information about this collection or other baritone uke music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our web site , http://www.stantons.com.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


GLORY 06 January, 2016

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

GLORY arr. Mark Brymer

The dramatic song by American rap artist and actor Common and singer/songwriter John Legend is featured in the historical film drama “Selma,” based on the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders of the time. A powerful learning opportunity for a new generation!

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.


Church Reading Session – THIS SATURDAY! 04 January, 2016

Lullington_Church_with_spring_flowers_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1103346Attend Stanton’s Sacred Choral Reading Session this Saturday, January 9th 2016, and you’ll be fully prepared for the remainder of your church choir season. We will be featuring the best new choral publications for Lent, Easter and beyond, as chosen by Stanton’s sacred choral staff. This January’s clinic will be held at Livingston United Methodist Church, just a few blocks from our store in downtown Columbus!

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION

Saturday January 9th, 2016

9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Attending this clinic is a fantastic way for you to choose new church anthems for your choir by hearing the music read live. This January’s clinicians will be Stanton’s own Judy Henry and president emeritus Jim Strouse. Please feel free to contact Stanton’s at 1-800-42-MUSIC and speak with a choral staff member for the details of the event. We look forward to seeing you at 8:30 on January 9th for registration, coffee and doughnuts followed by a wonderful morning of singing!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Happy New Year! 01 January, 2016

Happy New Year from all of us at Stanton’s Sheet Music! We’re closed today, but we’ll be back tomorrow to help you prepare for the new year!