News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Contemporary Piano Settings 31 May, 2017

1 handbell.qxdrecommended by Caryn G. and Judy S., Sacred Keyboard Music Specialists

The Essential Collection of Contemporary Piano Settings arr. Lloyd Larson
This is a wonderful collection of fifty-five hymns and current sacred songs arranged by Lloyd Larson. The wide selection of titles brings together useful settings, in a variety of music styles, for preludes, offertories and special occasions. A useful topical index offers easy referencing, as well as a quick glance at the liturgical church year. Difficulty ranges from moderately easy to moderately advanced.

For more information about this collection or others, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit us at stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


MARY MCDONALD: Coming to Stanton’s This Summer! 30 May, 2017

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome back Mary McDonald as our clinician for the August Church Choral Music reading session, and we invite you to join us at Overbrook Presbyterian Church (4131 N. High Street, Columbus OH 43214) on Saturday August 12, 2017.

Mary McDonald is well-known in sacred music. With a career that spans over thirty-five years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than eight hundred anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to sacred literature.

homepageimageIn 2000, Mary became the first ever woman President of the Southern Baptist Church Music Conference. In addition she has served as accompanist for the Tennessee Men’s Chorale since 1985. Her greatest desire is “to give God glory for the songs He has allowed me to compose. He alone, is the true Creator behind my pen.”

In 2011, after serving as sacred music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio for more than twenty years, Mary answered a new call. Now she takes her tremendous passion and love for music making directly to churches as an independent artist. She is in constant demand in churches across the nation for composer weekends and conferences.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 35 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. We look forward to seeing you on August 12th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Sacred Choral Reading Session
Saturday 8/12/2017, 9:00 am-12:30 pm
Overbrook Presbyterian Church
4131 N. High Street, Columbus OH 43214
Cost: $25.00 (There is no pre-registration; you may register the day of the clinic beginning at 8:30)
email our choral department for more details

Sacred Piano Reading Session
also featuring Mary McDonald
Saturday 8/12/2017, 2:00 pm-4:30 pm
Stanton’s Sheet Music
330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Cost: Free!
email our keyboard department for more details

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Pärt Uusberg and the Music of Estonia 29 May, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

sczs5l1p.prpEstonian composer and conductor Pärt Uusberg graduated from the class of Heli Jürgenson at the Tallinn Georg Ots Music School in 2009. In 2014 he received a degree in composition with Tõnu Kõrvits at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre. Always an active choral singer, he started in the Riinimanda children and youth choirs conducted by his mother Urve Uusberg. Over the years he has also sung in the Estonian Youth Mixed Choir, Voces Musicales, and World Youth Choir. (Side note: he may perhaps be better known as an actor in his home country, having appeared in the film The Class).

New from Uusberg this year are these lovely settings of Estonian texts. Warm harmonies and pure vowels lend themselves nicely to choral singing, and IPA guides are included for all three.

leon-00156068-fMuusika (Music) – an incredible poem about the mystery and wonder of music. A dynamic build of sound and tone helps to express the importance of the text. Gorgeous harmonies and solid construction.

Õhtul (Evening) – the poem speaks of evening and of the images we associate with dusk. Tonalities are both familiar and otherworldly.

Valgusele (For Light) – a lovely work that speaks of someone dreaming of the world and of searching for love. Vocal writing is evocative and yet accessible. A chance to focus on the quiet and peacefulness of dreams.

Find more creative programming options on our website, or contact us for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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.


Classic Pops for Guys 26 May, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

I can always count on Roger Emerson to do a high-quality arranging job, especially on pops titles – and this collection for guys is no exception! Roger keeps the authentic, fun style of each title while also providing excellent teaching opportunities:

leon-503979Classic Pops for Guys arr. Roger Emerson
Develop enthusiasm and skill with this value packed collection for men’s chorus that will add to your repertoire and be fun to rehearse! Includes: “ABC” (The Jackson 5), “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” (Tokens), “Man in the Mirror” (Michael Jackson), “Pretty Little Angel Eyes” (Curtis Lee), “Silhouettes” (The Rays).

Find more fun pops for guys’ ensembles on our website, or contact us for more information – and remember, shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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.


Pop Tunes for Marching Band 24 May, 2017

recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

leon-03746118-fStarboy arr. Ishbah Cox, Grade 3-4
Recorded by The Weeknd featuring Daft Punk, here is an energetic stands tune that skillfully passes the melody from section to section. Contemporary pop music at its best.

Cheap Thrills arr. Michael Brown & Omar Carmenates, Grade 3-4
Pop singing sensation Sia took the music world by storm with her hit Cheap Thrills. Featuring a distinctive Reggae flavor and a driving pulse, this is perfect for the stands or field.

leon-03746106-fHandClap arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Recorded by Fitz and the Tantrums, you’ll hear this catchy tune used in TV commercials as well as on the airwaves. This energetic chart is a great way to get the crowd involved with the signature hand clapping section.

Closer arr. Ishbah Cox, Grade 3-4
Here’s the popular and infectious tune recorded by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey, arranged in a driving and powerful version for the stands or field.

Stadium Jams Volume 11 arr. Jay Bocook, Grade 3-4
A dynamite collection of contemporary sounds for the stands, here are shortened versions of: Shut Up and Dance (Walk the Moon), Uma Thurman (Fall Out Boy), Fight Song (Rachel Platten), and Ex’s & Oh’s (Elle King).

Find more exciting charts for the upcoming marching season on our website, or contact us for more recommendations! Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grade 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in central Ohio, and joined the Stanton’s team in 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz to classic and alternative rock, symphonies, and classic songs from Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Besides music, he geeks out on comic books, amusement parks, the Muppets, football and hockey (especially the Steelers and Penguins), and all things Pittsburgh.


SUPER SESSION is Coming Soon! 23 May, 2017

ss logoStanton’s Super Session
Saturday 8/5/2017, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Columbia Heights United Methodist Church, 775 Galloway Road 43119
REGISTRATION: $55.00 (includes lunch)

Do you need to put a little “spark” in your choral program? Is there just too much new music out there for you to review? Join us for a fun, enriching day of music education with Andy Beck, Greg Gilpin, and Stanton’s own Jen Sper featuring music from Alfred Publications, Shawnee Press, Choristers Guild, Heritage Music Press, and other choral publishers. Nowhere else will you find such a variety of new choral selections and teaching resources to inspire and motivate you and your students as you begin the school year.

Visit our previous post for information on how to choose the Stanton’s session that is best for you. 

Registration opens on April 1st! Call us at 1.800.42.MUSIC for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


“A Mighty Fortress” 22 May, 2017

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Planning ahead for fall? Here’s a great option for Reformation Sunday, October 29, 2017 – celebrating the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses!

bpi-bp2101-fA Mighty Fortress Is Our God arr. Dan Forrest
Stand with Martin Luther as he nails his 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church and feel the emotion of this pivotal act in the Protestant Reformation. This stunning arrangement will make history come alive with its dramatic interpretation. Written for SATB choir, organ, brass sextet and percussion with optional orchestral accompaniment.

Contact us for more anthem recommendations for the coming church year, or visit us online – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Judy H. 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 F. 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.


Celtic Creations 19 May, 2017

recommended by Caryn G. and Judy S., Sacred Keyboard Music Specialists

1 handbell.qxdCeltic Creations arr. Larry Shackley
“Celtic Creations” is Larry Shackley’s fourth book of hymns and songs arranged in the Celtic style. Ten pieces in all, including “Ancient Words,” “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us,” “We are Called,” and “Christ Be in My Waking,” are full of the energy characteristic of the Celtic style, and are on an intermediate to advanced level. Suitable for prelude, offertory or postlude, the music from this collection is bound to be appreciated by your congregation!

For more information about this collection or other books of sacred piano music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit us online at stantons.com. And remember – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


“Vocalist’s Corner” – Vocal with BIG BAND 17 May, 2017

recommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

leon-502271Who Walks In When I Walk Out arr. Rick Stitzel
Famously recorded by Ella Fitzgerald with Louis Armstrong, here’s a medium swinger from the early days of jazz that makes a perfect showcase for a charismatic vocal soloist (optional duet for female and male). Everyone will have fun with this nostalgic romp! (Can also be performed using a duet of trumpet and tenor sax)

Route 66 arr. Mark Taylor
Composed in 1946 and recorded by countless artists over the years, here’s a jazz standard that never goes out of style! Mark’s medium tempo chart features a shuffle groove and feature spots for the band trading phrases with a solo trumpet. Fun for the singer and band alike.

leon-07012714-fHello arr. Paul Murtha
From Adele’s third album, this record-setting power ballad took the pop charts by storm and helped put the British singer back in the spotlight. This arrangement for vocal soloist (opt. alto sax) is beautifully paced, starting with just piano accompaniment then gradually building intensity as the full band joins in.

Lover Come Back to Me arr. Mark Taylor
This familiar standard, first popular in the ’20s and ’30s, has been revisited over the years in a variety of styles. Here is an attractive, smooth samba version for vocal solo (opt. tenor sax) that includes a feature spot for the saxes accompanied by the vocalist in a vocalese style. A marvelous change of pace for festival or concert use.

Find more great options like these on our website! Contact us for more information, and remember – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.


31st Annual JOY OF SINGING 16 May, 2017

Stanton’s is thrilled to announce The Joy of Singing 2017 – two full days of the best new music from Hal Leonard!

THE JOY OF SINGING: Young & Developing Choir
Thursday 8/3/2017, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Columbia Heights UMC
REGISTRATION: $55 (includes lunch)
New music appropriate for the beginning choral singing level (unison/2-part/3-part mixed). Includes choreography and two spotlight sessions on specific areas.

THE JOY OF SINGING: Middle & High School Choir
Friday 8/4/2017, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Columbia Heights UMC
REGISTRATION: $55 (includes lunch)
New music appropriate for the middle/high school choral singing level (2-part, 3-part mixed, SAB, and SATB). Includes choreography and two spotlight sessions on specific areas.

Our clinicians this year will be John Jacobson, Cristi Cary Miller, Rollo Dilworth, and Mac Huff. Each director will receive a packet of complimentary booklets containing complete editions of arrangements suitable for both school and community choirs. You’ll have ample time to browse Stanton’s on-site store and chat with the clinicians throughout the day.

Visit our previous post for information on how to choose the Stanton’s session that is best for you.

Registration is now open! Contact us at 1-800-426-8742 or choral@stantons.com for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Disney Learning Books 15 May, 2017

recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Check out these exciting new children’s storybooks from Disney Learning and Explore Music, perfect for kids ages 4 and up! If you’ve stumbled upon our blog, you’re likely already a musician in some capacity – these books are great gifts for children whose parents who are not musicians, as they provide easy-to-implement ideas and suggestions for including music in a child’s daily life, and valuable information about the benefits of music for a child’s growth and development. They’re great for a child’s birthday, or even a baby shower for new parents!

00160409-leonMickey’s Found Sounds
This inventive story uses music, crafts and creative play to help children experience the fun of making music out of “found sounds.” The Main Street Parade has been rained out, but Mickey and his friends make their own parade as they discover items around the house that can be used to make musical instruments, including shakers, a glass jar xylophone, and more. The book includes special unique online activities including a video read-along, an audio sing-along, and activities to explore sounds and sound makers.

00160408-leonTangled: It’s Better When You Sing It
In this innovative musical exploration storybook, Rapunzel shows us that everything is better when you sing! This playful story uses music and creative play to help children experience the joy of singing and discover their own unique voice. The book includes special online activities, including a video read-along, an audio sing-along, and activities to explore sounds and singing.

These books can keep a child and parent (or babysitter) occupied for a whole afternoon with all the things to do that go along with the stories. Singing and music provide important benefits to children as they grow and learn. Encouraging children to be free to explore, play, and develop musical ability at their own pace can establish a love of music that can last a lifetime!

Stanton’s Sheet Music offers not only these colorful and fun storybooks, but also many books of children’s songs to sing, dance to, and act out, including My First Orchestra Book, Tubby the Tuba, and the Freddie the Frog series. Call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC for more information, or email us at keyboard@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.


Especially for SUMMER CHOIR 12 May, 2017

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

With summer fast approaching, many churches are nearing the end of the traditional “choir year.” Keep your choristers active during the summer by featuring them on a few services throughout the season – your congregation will thank you! Cancel your mid-week rehearsal and meet before the Sunday service to work up an easily-prepared anthem from one of these choral collections:

Easy Settings Volume 4 arr. Joel Raney, Mark Hayes, Jack Schrader & Lloyd Larson
Here is the 4th volume in our successful series of accessible voicings of top-sellers in the Hope Publishing catalog. All of these are proven winners arranged for SAB or Two-Part Mixed voices.

Singing Men Volume 6 arr. Joel Raney, Mark Hayes, Jack Schrader, Mary McDonald & Douglas E. Wagner
Here is the 6th volume in Hope’s successful series of settings for men’s choirs. Included are nine top-sellers composed and arranged for TTBB voices. A CD of Orchestral Accompaniment tracks is available for rehearsal and performance.

Hymns We Love to Sing Volume 2
With the overwhelming success of “Hymns We Love to Sing,” we are delighted to present the second installment of musically sound, accessibly voiced anthems. Featuring arrangements by some of the top composers and arrangers in the industry, this collection contains music written from a place of spiritual sincerity and musical practicality for today’s church choir. A number of the selections include the option for additional instrumentation, and an accompaniment CD is also available. With a wide breadth of styles and accompaniment options, this easy-to-prepare collection is sure to become a staple in your choral music library.

Find more collections like these on our website, or contact us for more recommendations – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Judy H. 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 F. 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.


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Pianists 10 May, 2017

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 AND COLLEGE GRADUATES with piano majors:

The Ultimate Piano Collection Series from G. Schirmer, $29.99-$37.50
Build your graduate’s repertoire library with these cost-saving collections! Available in Bach, Chopin, and Debussy editions, each comb-bound volume from the prestigious G. Schirmer Library of Musical Classics contains virtually every piece of piano music by these master composers.

The Musician’s Practice Planner, $9.99
Students 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 piano studio list? Stanton’s carries a full line of standard method books, etude books and solo repertoire! Visit http://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!!!

Leather Briefcase with G Clef Embroidery, $79.95
Perfect for toting music to-and-from gigs and rehearsals, this quality leather briefcase is 16” x 12”, and is easy to carry with both handles and the included shoulder strap.

The A to Z of Foreign Musical Terms by Christine Ammer, $10.75
The more advanced 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.

Harvard Dictionary of Music, $54.50
We 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.

Bach, Beethoven and the Boys: Music History As It Ought To Be Taught, $17.95
If It Ain’t Baroque…More Music History As It Ought To Be Taught, $15.95
Accidentals on Purpose: A Musician’s Dictionary, $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 knack for putting musicians in their place! Click here to see all of the author’s offerings.

Don’t forget to give your graduate Stanton’s phone number: 1-800-42-MUSIC! Our staff is a great resource with music knowledge and teaching experience, and full of ideas!


Elementary General Music Clinic 2017 09 May, 2017

gm logoElementary General Music Clinic
Wednesday 8/2/2017, 9:00 am-12:30 pm
Columbia Heights UMC
REGISTRATION: $25.00
Stanton’s Sheet Music is excited to welcome Sharon Burch as our clinician for the 35th edition of our Elementary General Music Clinic. This is one of Stanton’s longest running and most successful clinics, showcasing the best new teacher resources, song collections, games, musicals and more! We are sure that you will find materials that will keep you and your students interested throughout the year. Get your school year started on the right foot!

Registration opens on April 1st! Call us at 1.800.42.MUSIC for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Instrumentalists 08 May, 2017

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) that WE could have used when we graduated!

For HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES becoming instrumental music majors:

ecs-4469-fThe A to Z of Foreign Musical Terms by Christine Ammer, $10.75
The more advanced 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, $9.99
Students 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 http://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!!!

51Ek7jNuxpL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_Bach, Beethoven and the Boys: Music History As It Ought To Be Taught, $17.95
If It Ain’t Baroque…More Music History As It Ought To Be Taught, $15.95
Accidentals on Purpose: A Musician’s Dictionary, $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 knack for putting musicians in their place! Click here to see all of the author’s offerings.

For COLLEGE GRADUATES becoming First Year Band Directors:

Handy Manual Fingering Charts by Clarence Hendrickson, $8.99
You’re not alone – no one remembers all those fingerings for the bassoon they learned in a methods class three 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!

alfred-286-fInstrument Repair for the Music Teacher by Burton Stanley, $22.95
This 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, $19.95
From 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.

Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series, $39.50-$69.95
These books are the go-to resource for quality instrumental literature at all levels. The books are a wealth of information, and the accompanying CD sets have high quality recordings of each featured 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 Band Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, as well as Teaching Music Through Performance in Middle School Band, and Beginning Band Vol. 1 and 2. Books and CD sets sold separately.

Help your graduate build their reference library with these other fantastic resources!
National Core Arts Standards by Wendy Barden, $12.95
Habits of a Successful Band Director by Scott Rush, $29.95
Habits of a Successful Middle School Band Director by Scott Rush, $29.95
Developing the Complete Band Program by Shelley Jagow, $39.95
Urban Music Education by Kate Fitzpatrick-Harnish, $19.95
Strategic Plans for a Successful Booster Club by David W. Vandewalker, $44.95
Boosters to the Rescue! Handbook for Educators by David W. Vandewalker, $44.95

Visit our 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 and teaching experience, and full of ideas!


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Jazz Studies 05 May, 2017

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) that WE could have used when we graduated!

For HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES becoming Jazz Studies majors:

aberso-v01-fHow To Play Jazz and Improvise by Jamey Aebersold, $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!

The Real Book Vol. 1, $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, benefiting 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, $61.95
Aria Brio Music Stand Light, $129.95
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).

gia-g7268-fTeaching Music Through Performance in Jazz, $25.95-$46.95
The Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz series 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. Available titles include Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz Vol. 1 & 2, as well as Teaching Music Through Performance in Beginning Jazz. Books and CD sets sold separately.

Don’t forget to give your graduate Stanton’s phone number: 1-800-42-MUSIC! Our staff is a great resource with music knowledge and teaching experience, and full of ideas!


Music Major Graduation Gifts – String Players 03 May, 2017

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) that WE could have used when we graduated!

For HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES studying string instruments in college:

so you want to be a music majorSo You Want To Be a Music Major by Robert Franzblau, $14.99
There’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, $54.50
We 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 attachedStrings Attached by Joanne Lipman & Melanie Kupchynsky, $24.99
Every 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 them 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 GRADUATES becoming string teachers:

Teaching Music Through Performance in Orchestra series, $39.50-$49.50
These books are the go-to resource for quality orchestral literature at all levels. The books are a wealth of information, and the accompanying CD sets have high quality recordings of each featured 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 Orchestra Vol. 1, 2 & 3. Books and CD sets sold separately.

habits of a successful orchestra directorHabits of a Successful Orchestra Director by Christopher Selby, $29.95
This resource is rich with practical strategies for developing a successful orchestra program. This book will inspire young and veteran orchestra directors looking for fresh ideas about teaching students of all ages to: perform with refined intonation, expressive musicianship, and a beautiful tone; develop advanced performance technique, rhythmic precision, and ensemble skills; sight-read better, rehearse more efficiently in class, and practice better at home; and become orchestra leaders and take greater pride and ownership in your ensemble.

Help your graduate build their reference library with these other fantastic resources!
Strategies for Teaching Strings, $76.95
Orchestral Bowings and Routines, $21.99
String Teaching in America: Strategies for a Diverse Society, $22.99
ASTA (American String Teachers Association) Curriculum, $49.99
String Clinics To Go: Art of Recruiting DVD, $34.95
String Clinics To Go: Getting Started DVD, $34.95

Don’t forget to give your graduate Stanton’s phone number: 1-800-42-MUSIC! Our staff is a great resource with music knowledge and teaching experience, and full of ideas!


Music Major Graduation Gifts – Vocalists 01 May, 2017

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 plans 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) that WE could have used when we graduated!

For HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES pursuing a degree in vocal music:

ipa made easyIPA Made Easy by Anna Wentlent, $12.99
Don’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, $14.99
There’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 literatureStandard Vocal Literature ed. Richard Walters, $22.99
available for Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Tenor, Baritone, and Bass
All 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, contain a variety of art song and arias in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, 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, $17.95
We all need to be able to laugh a little at ourselves. Whether your graduate is an 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: C-C or F-F, $32.40
Useful 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 choirTeaching Music Through Performance in Choir series, $25.95-$47.95
These books are the go-to resource for quality choral literature at all levels. The books are a wealth of information, and the accompanying CD sets have high quality recordings of each featured 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 & 4 as well as Teaching Music Through Performance in Middle School Choir. Books and CD sets sold separately.

Also, be sure to give your graduate Stanton’s phone number: 1-800-42-MUSIC! Our staff is a great resource with music knowledge and teaching experience, and full of ideas!