News & Views Monday, March 02, 2015

by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Specialists

Involve your youngest singers in worship this spring with one of these great anthems for children’s choirs!

An Easter Alleluia by Timothy Shaw
This jubilant anthem for Easter day recounts the miraculous story of Christ’s resurrection. Unison voices singing “alleluias” with the peal of optional handbells proclaim together the glorious news that Jesus lives!

Everyday Miracles by Donna Butler Douglas
Appropriate for older elementary, youth, or adult choirs, this poignant anthem reminds us to stop and recognize the simple blessings of life. In so doing, we can “capture a glimpse of God’s face.” Optional parts for violin and congregation enhance the song’s stirring melody and lush harmonies.

Lift High the Palms of Praise! by Brad Nix
Triumphant and joyful, this Palm Sunday piece urges one and all to “lift high the palms of praise” and prepare the way for David’s royal Son. A lilting 6/8 meter provides a celebratory processional feel while also enhancing the spirited piano accompaniment.

Make a Joyful Noise! by Jeff Reeves
Rhythmic chant, handclaps, and a spirited melody make this an instant favorite with young singers! Written in ABA form, the slower, reflective B section incorporates the first stanza of “Holy, Holy, Holy.” An easy, optional second voice part gives budding two-part choirs a chance to shine during the anthem’s final A section.

A Mother’s Love by Mark Patterson
This anthem, perfect for Mother’s Day, beautifully expresses how a mother’s love undoubtedly mirrors the love and grace of God. An optional solo for a teenage youth or adult male begins the anthem and introduces a stirring melody that is repeated throughout the piece by a unison children’s choir. The optional cello part, which could be played by any C treble or bass clef instrument, underscores a feeling of warmth and tenderness elegantly conveyed through text and music.

Scatter the Darkness, Break the Gloom arr. Jacob Weber
Jacob Weber’s dynamic new arrangement of this joyful hymn pairs the Easter text with the bright BESANCON tune. A strong unison line establishes the melody, while an optional descant part on the final stanza adds a celebratory touch. Changing meter in the accompaniment engages the listener, choir, and director alike. A triumphant way to celebrate the Easter season.

Table for Five…Thousand! by Allen Pote & Tom S. Long
Unforgettable melodies and poignant lyrics abound in this inspiring musical based on the account of Jesus feeding the five thousand. Found in all four New Testament gospels, the story reveals how one young boy with five loaves of bread and two fish, along with his apparent willingness to share, led to an event so startling that members of the crowd wanted to proclaim Jesus as King. Later, the event revealed an even greater truth as Jesus told his disciples, “I am the Bread of Life. Those who come to me will never go hungry.” The musical remains true to the Biblical accounts while underlining the theme that the most humble among us especially children can do great things with God’s help. An outstanding dramatic narrative employs numerous roles for girls and boys while also incorporating the congregation (or audience) during the climatic scene when Jesus feeds the five thousand. This worshipful musical fits perfectly into any worship setting, music camp, or VBS format.

Want more suggestions from Stanton’s? Contact our Choral Department 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.

Brothers, Sing On!: Conducting the Tenor-Bass Choir by Jonathan Palant is a welcome addition to the choral pedagogy literature addressing the training of male singers. An ideal resource for choral directors, teachers-in-training, singers and choral enthusiasts, this practical volume explores the challenges and rewards of working with evolving adolescent-through-adult male singer. In addition to his own valuable insights, Dr. Palant includes interviews with over two dozen seasoned vocal music educators. Topics include: A History of Men’s Choral Singing, Anatomy of the Male Voice, The Product: Choral Tone, Intonation, Parts and Placement, The Adolescent Male Voice: Categorization to Maturation, Programming and Repertoire Selection, Auditions, Warm-Ups, Sight-Singing, Recruiting, Fund-Raising, Travel, sample programs, repertoire lists, and much more!

We are excited to announce that author Jonathan Palant will be one of our featured clinicians at this year’s Joy of Singing clinic on July 31st! For information on this session, or for more valuable choral music resources, please contact us!

Featuring talented clinicians from major publishers, Stanton’s summer choral clinics are a fantastic way to jump-start your school year! We always look forward to visiting with our regular customers, matching up faces with names of new attendees, and meeting teachers new to Stanton’s from across the country.

Mark your calendar for these dates:

	Elementary General Music Clinic Wednesday July 29, 2015 Clinician: Andy Beck
	The John Jacobson Workshop Thursday July 30, 2015 Clinicians: John Jacobson & Mac Huff
	The Joy of Singing Friday July 31, 2015 Clinicians: Mark Brymer, Mac Huff, John Jacobson & Jonathan Palant
	Stanton’s Super Session Saturday August 1, 2015 Clinicians: Andy Beck, Greg Gilpin & Jen Sper

Also in August 2015:

	Sacred Choral Reading Session Saturday August 8, 2015 Clinician: Joel Raney (no pre-registration for this session)
	Excellence in Choral Literature Saturday August 22, 2015 Clinician: James Gallagher

Registration will open on April 1st. For more detailed information regarding any of these clinics, contact the choral department at 1-800-426-8742, extension 1. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

by Jennifer Fry, Handbell Specialist

Are your ringers ready for a new challenge during the Lenten season? Try one of these excellent selections for Lent and Easter!

Prelude on Ellacombe arr. Michael Helman
Michael Helman expertly arranged Larry Shackley’s exuberant piano work “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” (70/1830L) to create a perfect handbell piece for concerts, festivals, and worship services. The mixed meter section incorporates numerous stopped-bell techniques which will delight and challenge your ringers.

Easter Glory arr. Cathy Moklebust
Cathy Moklebust expertly weaves together three dynamic hymns in this joyous arrangement proclaiming the Risen Christ! In addition to Easter morning, this piece is also a wonderful selection for festival and concert settings.

He Never Said a Mumbalin’ Word arr. Lloyd Larson
Lloyd Larson gives us a captivating arrangement of this beloved spiritual. Rich harmonies are featured throughout, and all parts get a chance to play the melody at some point in the piece. Great for ensembles looking for something a little different and not too technically demanding for their Lenten services.

O Sacred Head Now Wounded arr. Arnold B. Sherman
Arnold Sherman has taken the Passion Chorale and created a hauntingly beautiful arrangement of “O Sacred Head Now Wounded.” Written for 3-5 octaves of handbells, this piece is a must for the Lenten season.

From the Cross to Resurrection arr. Anna Laura Page
Master composer Anna Laura Page brings us this outstanding collection of handbell arrangements for the Lent, Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter seasons. These creative settings, featuring various skill-building techniques and optional handchimes, bring both the suffering and victory of Christ to glorious expression.

For more great recommendations, contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

by Jen Sper & Rachel Steele, School Choral Specialists

Involving young musicians in an elementary school choir is a great way to encourage budding musicianship and beginning ensemble skills. These octavos are perfect for students in grades 3-6, and will showcase your music program in the best possible way this spring!

Grow, Little Tree by Andrea Ramsey is perfect for end-of-the-year performances. The sweet text compares a child’s young life to a growing tree – “Grow, little tree / Stretch your arms and spread your leaves / What will you be?…” This also works beautifully as a combined number with your middle school or high school singers!

Interpreting text and poetry offers lots of teaching opportunities for young singers. Cynthia Gray’s If I Knew You features a sincere message about acceptance, friendship, and being sensitive to one another. Or, use In My Dream by Andy Beck and take a peek into your students’ imaginations, with far off lands, magic carpets and more!

Explore the music of Asia with Doraji, a popular Korean folksong. Because the melody is based on the pentatonic scale, it’s great for incorporating your classroom lessons into your performing ensemble. Mark Burrow’s original You Can Dance, You Can Sing also brings a fun world music flavor – add the percussion parts for extra rhythmic energy, and the optional descant for your singers who are ready for a part-singing challenge.

Chatter with the Angels is a cheerful spiritual option, with a bouncy and supportive piano accompaniment. The melody passes from part to part, and a back-and-forth “chatter” section (with descant) ups the difficulty level.

If your students enjoyed NBC’s live broadcast of “Peter Pan,” they’ll love singing I’ve Gotta Crow! Another great Broadway option is It’s Possible (In McElligot’s Pool) from “Seussical” – perfect ranges for young voices, and lots of fun!

For ensembles ready for the challenge of three-part singing, The Wise Old Owl by Cynthia Gray is an ideal choice. It moves easily from unison to canon, then three melodic parts. The playful interaction between the parts is delightful!

For more programming suggestions for your elementary choir, please contact us. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
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 eating good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

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 a Bachelor’s and 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!

One of this winter’s finest offerings is the Disney movie “Into the Woods“.  Meryl Streep is a great witch, Johhny Depp is a wicked wolf, and, well, it’s something some of us don’t mind watching twice.  Here is the matching songbook, with photos from the movie.   Enjoy an afternoon with the mixed up fairy tales as told by Stephen Sondheim!  For more information about this collection of movie sheet music or others, 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!

by Judy Henry and Jennifer Fry, Sacred Choral Specialists

It may still be cold and snowy outside, but it’s certainly not too early to be planning your choral anthems for this spring! We have carefully chosen these pieces to be appropriate for a variety of worship styles and services throughout the coming months.

For the Lenten season and Holy Week, Mercy Tree is an excellent choice. Mary McDonald’s arrangement of this contemporary tune is breathtakingly dramatic. Intense lyrics, expressive vocals, and powerful accompaniment options combine to bring Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection to the forefront of our minds and the depths of our hearts. In another option, Craig Courtney brings us a beautiful, thoughtful arrangement of Nothing But the Blood of Jesus. The choral parts develop in increasing complexity, including a warm a cappella section, combining seamlessly with the gentle piano accompaniment and violin obbligato.

Sing a Glad Hosanna is a great choice for Palm Sunday! This joyful anthem blends the traditional Shaker tune “Followers of the Lamb” with the traditional Hebrew melody LEONI. Susan Dengler’s text is celebrative, while Lee Dengler’s arrangement is fresh and full of energy.

Opening with the scene at Easter dawn, Risen with Him builds dramatically in intensity until the strains of the beloved EASTER HYMN bursts through with optional congregational participation. It is equally effective when performed with Mark Hayes’ keyboard accompaniment, orchestra, or brass and timpani.

For other Sundays this spring, try David Schowebel’s Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing. This beautiful anthem invites us to “leave the multitude” and accompany Christ on His journey to Gethsemane and the empty tomb. The lyrics, which span history and the wonderfully memorable melody comprise a musical experience your choir will not likely forget. Other excellent options include My God’s So Good to Me (a reminder of God’s many blessings with an infectious beat and bluesy melody), I Put My Hope in You (incorporating the text “My hope is built on nothing less…”) and Coming Home (an original prayerful ballad by Mary McDonald).

Did you miss out on our Sacred Choral Music Reading Session? Never fear! If you’re interested in receiving a packet from this year’s clinic (including these and many more selections for spring worship), please contact us! You can also click here to view our entire Sacred Choral promotion for Spring 2015, or visit our Virtual Workshop. 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.

by Jennifer Fry, Vocal Music Specialist

Known for his well-crafted choral music in both the sacred and secular realms, composer Dan Forrest has transcribed ten of his choral anthems most frequently requested as vocal solos in a new collection, Sacred Solos of Dan Forrest, available in High (general range D-G), Medium (general range B-flat-E-flat) and Low (general range G-C) voice editions. Accompaniment CDs, performed by Dan, are also available for all three books – so you can (somewhat) literally have the composer accompanying! Titles include: “Arise, My Soul, Arise,” “Lord of the Small,” “The King of Love My Shepherd Is,” “A Cradle Carol,” “And Can It Be?,” “Cry No More,” “How Great Thou Art,” “An Offering,” “My Jesus, I Love Thee” and “The Work of Christmas.”

For more vocal repertoire suggestions, please visit us online or contact us!

About the Author:
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.

by Jen Sper & Rachel Steele, School Choral Specialists

If you’re planning a concert of popular music with your choir this spring, we’ve got some great recommendations for you! Lighter repertoire is a fun option for end-of-year concerts, but don’t forget to find some good musical challenges for your students as well – you want to showcase all the progress they’ve made throughout the school year!

Shake It Off arr. Roger Emerson
Players gonna play, haters gonna hate, but I’m just gonna shake it off! Taylor Swift’s irresistible #1 hit from 2014 is pure pop delight!

With a Song in My Heart arr. Kirby Shaw
One of the greatest songs of all time, Rodgers & Hart’s classic romantic ballad will produce warm smiles all around as you luxuriate in the lush harmonies of this superb a cappella arrangement.

Gone, Gone, Gone arr. Andy Beck
American Idol winner Phillip Phillips topped the charts with this single from his debut album. Great voice-leading and appropriate ranges make it a perfect choice for developing men’s groups. And the sweet, heart-felt lyrics of this folk-pop love song will reveal the softer side of your guys!

Seize the Day arr. Kirby Shaw
Now in an exciting a cappella setting! This showstopper from the award-winning composer Alan Menken was featured in the Disney film and Broadway musical “Newsies.” Featuring a powerful “brotherhood” text, it begins with a compelling chorale-like opening and then explodes into rhythm that encourages us all to “seize the day!”

For more suggestions, click here to view our complete School Choral promotion for Spring 2015, or contact us!

About the Authors:
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 eating good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

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 a Bachelor’s and 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!

It’s been a long time since those reading sessions at the end of last summer…come refresh your memory with our recommended choral music for finishing out the school year!

FREE
SPRING CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday, February 28 from 10:00-11:30

James E. Strouse Workshop Hall
Stanton’s Sheet Music
330 S. Fourth Street
Columbus OH 43215

We will read selected titles for SATB, men’s and women’s ensembles appropriate for high school spring concerts and graduation. Because we will be reading music directly from our large inventory and sharing the expertise of the Stanton’s School Choral staff, Jen Sper, Rachel Steele and Joyce Stonebraker, we are able to offer this reading session at no cost to you!

For more information, email us or call 1.800.426.8742 ext. 1.

by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist –

Teaching solid fundamentals of playing and basic musicianship are at the core of beginning and middle school band. Obviously there is already plenty to cover within your curriculum, and if your school district’s program is well-organized, there is a certain skill set and level of musicianship your students should reach before moving on to high school band. Throw in programming for a Christmas/winter concert and adjudicated performance/band trip, and your year is already really full. While all of these things are worthwhile, why not step outside the box a little bit and throw in a piece to teach style.

While I know there are reasons both musical and practical not to do this, there are a number of great reasons to do it, as well. First, it will provide some interesting variety to your concert programming. In addition to the usual concert overture/concert piece, lyrical selection, march, and programmatic piece, an authentic Latin or other “world” style, tango, waltz, or show-style piece will add some fun, flair, and may well be the highlight of your performance. Secondly, it will greatly enhance your group’s musicianship. Different styles place different reading and interpretation demands on players, and the more styles a musician encounters, the more versatile they become. As a big band saxophonist that came up through school music programs, I feel like we all learn to play legato really well. This is great for developing tone and for classical playing and study, but limits our scope for interpreting notation. On most gigs, styles change from one tune to the next and most students really only encounter a variety of styles through jazz ensemble. Of course this is limited to those who participate, and if the programming is really solid. It’s never too early to plant seeds of versatility, and your overall program will greatly benefit from the variety of skills and depth of understanding your students gain. Lastly, exposure to a variety of styles will broaden your students’ view of music overall and its place in history.

Below I have featured two of my favorite new pieces to teach style. Keep in mind that if they are cheesy, not authentic, or merely dressed up with percussion toys, they don’t make the cut. As when choosing pieces for jazz band, I recommend selecting a piece that’s about 1 grade level easier than your ensemble typically plays. This will allow your students to easily nail down notes and rhythms so you can focus on interpretation, articulation, and nuance. I have also listed a few more new titles for middle school band that capture their respective styles perfectly. We even think enough of them that they’re all in our middle school band promotion!  If you’re considering teaching style this year, these are all great starting places. Go ahead. Be brave. Your students and audience will thank you.

Camino del Sol by Steve Hodges        Grade 2.5
Camino del Sol is a solid, fun to play Latin selection that will greatly develop your ensemble’s technique, rhythmic interpretation, and cut-time reading. Underpinned by a characteristic, syncopated bass ostinato and Latin percussion, a light melody passes throughout the band complete with full-bar, 8^th note pick-ups and hits in all the right places. As always, articulation, note length (space!), and interpreting figures sets the style. The biggest challenges will be learning to hear & feel the figures in 2 (don’t over-count), and keeping the slurred melody from being too legato.

Zombie Tango by James Meredith      Grade 2
Teach beyond notes and rhythms with this fantastic tango. Sure it’s spooky per the title, but more important is its authenticity – bringing any cultural or dance style to life requires appropriate accents, note lengths, and interpretation of figures. More than just dressing it up with percussion instruments, Zombie Tango features characteristic elements in spades (including a bridge)! Aside from being a fun programming change-up, learning to interpret this style from the page will work wonders for reading articulation and rhythmic figures. We couldn’t recommend this piece more!

Stanton’s also recommends: African Alleluia, Klezmer Clarinets, and Three Brazilian Folksongs

About the Author:
Ken is a former band director, and has been with Stanton’s since 2004. He is excited to have finally seen Jeff Coffin and the Mu’tet live! He also enjoys comic books, all things Pittsburgh (Let’s Go Pens!), and plays saxophone with Swing’s the Thing Big Band.

by Jen Sper, School Choral Specialist

The beginning of 2015 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 classic publications as “the best of the best!”

for SATB Ensembles
Red River Valley arr. Jeffrey Douma
This arrangement of the beloved folk song was first premiered by the Yale Glee Club in the fall of 2006, and has since become an audience favorite. Probably referring to the Red River that flows north between Minnesota and North Dakota into Lake Winnipeg, the sentiment expressed by the text is immediately understood by anyone who has had to bid farewell too soon to a loved one.

Ecce Sacerdos Magnus by J.M. Haydn/ed. Martin Banner
Johann Michael Haydn was a prolific composer who wrote hundreds of compositions including a Requiem. The text lends itself for use at ordination or a festival liturgy. Scored for mixed chorus with 2 horns and strings, the work is also easily accompanied by keyboard.

Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal by Greg Gilpin
Greg Gilpin’s setting of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s time-honored text is a musical example of text painting set to lush harmonic phrases and lyric melodies. The simple yet supportive accompaniment allows the vocals to be showcased throughout. A concert or festival winner.

Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel arr. Roger Emerson
Now available in a flexible SATB voicing, this driving rock spiritual features a subdued opening that explodes into high-powered energy sure to be a hit with your developing mixed choirs in middle and high school.

for Women’s Ensembles
La Maumariee (J’entends le loup) arr. Joni Jensen
An incredibly dynamic adaptation of this beloved French folk song. Quick and rhythmic, the work reflects the determination and liveliness of the girl in the poem who won’t let others dictate her love or her future. Meter changes, body percussion and the dancing oboe and piano parts all work together in this challenging arrangement. Sure to be a favorite of choirs and audiences alike! With piano, oboe, opt. frame drum and body percussion.

Kyrie (from Mass in B-flat Major #10) by W.A. Mozart/arr. Arkadi Serper
From the Mozart Missa Brevis K.275, this delightful work has been adapted for treble voices. An excellent introduction to Classical era style and performance practice!

Samiotissa arr. Serper/Serper
Explore the music of Greece with this traditional folksong that tells the story of a boy who loves a girl from the island of Samos. In 7/8 meter, the choral parts are accessible and it’s easy to add Greek folk dance steps to create an authentic experience. Includes pronunciation guide.

Now My Heart by Jacques Arcadelt/arr. Patrick M. Liebergen
Arcadelt’s French chanson, transcribed into English, was originally written for SAT voices. “Now My Heart” is an excellent example of Arcadelt’s tendency to set chanson in chordal style with simultaneous pronunciation of the text by all voices. The use of optional percussion will only add to the Renaissance experience, and is sure to be a concert or festival crowd-pleaser.

for Men’s Ensembles
Flanders Fields by Paul A. Aitken
This distinguished setting of the McCrae text was originally published for mixed choirs soon after being named the first winner of the ACDA Brock Memorial composition contest. Aitken’s new women’s and men’s voicings are just as inspiring as the original.

Praise the Lord by Stephen M. Hopkins
Hopkins’ highly spirited and rhythmic adaptation of Psalms 148 & 150 masterfully imbeds the hymn tune Lobe den Herren before a unison “Praise to the Lord.” Majestic at times, this piece offers a plethora of musical moments for men’s choirs.

Loch Lomond arr. Russell Robinson
One of the most well-known of all Scottish folk songs, Robinson’s arrangement of “Loch Lomond” captures the flavor of the Gaelic language – Scottish sounds and textures in both male voices and piano accompaniment. Sensitive, accessible and just plain pretty, it is sure to be a favorite of any concert or festival program.

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 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.

Contemporary a cappella music gets more and more popular every year! With high-profile features like “The Sing-Off” and “Pitch Perfect,” many high schools and colleges are getting in on the action as well! Here are a few of Stanton’s new favorites for contemporary a cappella ensembles:

fun. (Medley from The Sing-Off) arr. Deke Sharon
America’s favorite a cappella show returned for another smash mini-season in 2013 with show-stoppers like this medley from super group fun. If you are up for no lip-synching, back-up bands or safety net, this chart is for you! Includes: Carry On, Some Nights, We Are Young.

I Need Your Love arr. Ben Bram
DJ Calvin Harris collaborated with English performer Ellie Goulding on this top-forty hit. Ben Bram’s contemporary treatment is sure to be a hit with your a cappella group!

Groovin’ arr. Kirby Shaw
The #1 hit from 1967 by the Young Rascals in a smooth vocals-only setting perfectly captures the relaxed slow groove of the song with an easy vocal accompaniment and an irresistible solo. Also available TTBB and SSAA.

I’ve Had the Time of My Life arr. Deke Sharon
Featured on NBC’s The Sing-Off, this #1 hit by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes from the 1987 film “Dirty Dancing” features two soloists with a rich vocal accompaniment. Opening simply, it builds consistently through two key changes to an electrifying final cadence.

Skyfall arr. J.A.C. Redford
The hit single by Adele from the motion picture “Skyfall” has been creatively arranged by J.A.C Redford, the orchestrator of the film. Using vocal percussion and divisi vocal parts, J.A.C. has created a setting that is perfect for jazz and show choirs as well as concert choirs.

If I Die Young arr. Ben Bram
This poignant story about a young life lost too early touched listeners around the world when released by The Band Perry. Ben’s contemporary a cappella setting is an appropriate choice for more reflective concert occasions. Also available SSAA.

Royals arr. Deke Sharon
This 2013 song by Lorde topped the Hot 100, AC and Rock charts and won the Grammy for song of the year and best pop performance. This a cappella setting will be a hit with pop, jazz and a cappella groups in high school, college and beyond! Also available SSAA.

Turn on the Radio arr. Bryan Sharpe
Contemporary a cappella groups will enjoy this Reba McEntire top hit as they sing about a relationship gone bad. “So listen Romeo, when you’re feelin’ kinda lonely, let me tell you where to go: turn on the radio!”

Little Lion Man arr. Deke Sharon
The debut single from 2009 by Mumford & Sons from their debut album “Sigh No More” packs a folk rock punch in this arrangement for unaccompanied male voices.

The Circle Game arr. Kate MacColl
Originally created for Vancouver’s ensemble Elektra, this concert arrangement features a soloist as it weaves the melody through every section in the ensemble. Multiple key changes add to the musicality of this delightful setting of a Joni Mitchell favorite.

For more a cappella suggestions, contact our Choral Department at 1.800.426.8742, ext. 1.

by Jen Sper & Rachel Steele, School Choral Specialists

If you’re planning a concert of popular music with your choir this spring, we’ve got some great recommendations for you! Lighter repertoire is a fun option for end-of-year concerts, but don’t forget to find some good musical challenges for your students as well – you want to showcase all the progress they’ve made throughout the school year!

Shooting Star arr. Audrey Snyder
It’s time for you to shine! The fresh sounds of Owl City continue to delight fans across the globe. Young singers will love recreating the music with this accessible arrangement!

Wooly Bully arr. Jay Althouse
Sam the Sham and The Pharoahs became a worldwide sensation with this novelty hit based on a standard blues progression. Easy-to-sing harmonies and fun lyrics will stick with you long after the concert has ended. As for the strange title: according to Sam, “The name of my cat was Wooly Bully, so I started from there.”

Can’t Buy Me Love arr. Roger Emerson
Celebrate 50 years of the Beatles with this energetic song from 1964! Set in a rock style swing, the voices trade off, and the blues chord progression makes it easy to add guitar! A great showcase for younger and developing choirs!

Aladdin (Broadway Medley) arr. Mac Huff
Disney’s hit film from 1992 is now a dazzling, enchanting and invigorating Broadway musical! With the fabulous classic songs and several delightful new additions, this 14-minute medley will be a spectacular concert feature for choirs of all ages. It’s “Genie-us!”

For more suggestions, click here to view our complete School Choral promotion for Spring 2015, or contact us!

About the Authors:
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 eating good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

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 a Bachelor’s and 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!

Stanton’s is proud to feature author and composer Mark Shelton as our first guest author for the Stanton’s blog.  Check out what Mark has to say about his latest resource, “Give Me A Bucket.”

Whether you are a middle school band director looking for a clever way to feature your percussionists or a general music teacher searching for a crowd-pleasing instrumental, a bit of bucket drumming can provide a fun-filled solution.  Bucket drumming has come to the elementary music classroom and the band hall with instructors and students getting in on the joy of pounding a pail.  Forming this type of ensemble is easy on the budget and provides a great vehicle for learning rhythms and exploring tone colors.

Clear directions are laid out for bucket drumming success in Give Me A Bucket (click here for a short tutorial.)  In addition to guiding you through the process of setting up your bucket ensemble, Give Me A Bucket provides a dozen short, easy-to-learn pieces, rehearsal tips, simple choreography, and a recording for study and inspiration.  Give Me A Bucket is suggested for grades 4-8 and the pieces are grouped by level of difficulty. All the pieces can be played with basic single stroke percussion skills. There are no rolls, flams, or complicated sticking patterns in the entire collection.

While most of the ensembles are written for different sizes of buckets playing polyphony,  a few works are scored for unison playing. One such ensemble is “Strange Asparagus” which makes clever use of Boomwhackers™ as the striking implement. The pitched tubes provide a bit of harmony and a colorful visual component.

Give Me A Bucket was featured at Stanton’s General Music Clinic facilitated by nationally recognized elementary music specialist, Sharon Burch http://youtu.be/TN067m4iddQ

Check out a performance of “Bucket Rock 101” with fourth and fifth grade students from Lannoye Elementary in Pulaski, WI.   http://youtu.be/ruB0VqgkHYo

My short bucket drumming tutorial can be found at http://youtu.be/-eGFsWHGong

Go ahead…set up a few pails, hand your students some sticks, pass out the parts, and let the bucket jam begin!

Mark Shelton has presented hundreds of arts-in-education performances as a percussion soloist and as leader of the world music ensemble Tin Roof Tango. From the early days of his career as Visiting Artist at Coastal Carolina Community College to his current work as a soloist, clinician, sideman, and entrepreneur, Mark has created programs, products, and educational services for a variety of ages. Educational articles by Mark have appeared in Percussive Notes, Activate!, Dulcimer Players News, and Worship Musician.  (If you love “Give Me A Bucket“, also check out Mark’s previous publication “Give Me A Groove“.)

by Jen Sper & Rachel Steele, School Choral Specialists

If you’re planning a concert of popular music with your choir this spring, we’ve got some great recommendations for you! Lighter repertoire is a fun option for end-of-year concerts, but don’t forget to find some good musical challenges for your students as well – you want to showcase all the progress they’ve made throughout the school year!

Counting Stars arr. Mark Brymer
The band OneRepublic performs music that reflects many musical influences, from rock to pop to indie and more. This hit from 2013 has a driving rhythm and unforgettable chorus that will electrify your stage! The 3-part mixed and 2-part alternate voicings offer a nice opportunity for a combined number for all your ensembles.

Ease On Down the Road arr. Mac Huff
From “The Wiz,” this stand-out R&B classic retains all the energy, optimism and Broadway pizzazz you could ever imagine! Now in a fantastic new arrangement, it’s perfect for pop, show and concert choirs as an opener, closer or concert theme.

Save the World/Don’t You Worry Child arr. Mark Brymer
Inspired by the vibrant a cappella sounds of the vocal group Pentatonix, this accessible setting of the mash-up by Swedish House Mafia is accompanied with keyboard and rhythm section, making this a fantastic showcase for high school pop and show choirs. Or, try it a cappella for true Pentatonix flavor!

Step In Time arr. Philip Kern
From Disney’s hit Broadway musical “Mary Poppins” comes this toe-tapping, broom-sweeping jewel! Accessible vocal writing provides thrills throughout for mixed voices and for the guys as well. Instrumental parts for this show-stopper are also available.

For more suggestions, click here to view our complete School Choral promotion for Spring 2015, or contact us!

About the Authors:
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 eating good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

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 a Bachelor’s and 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!