News & Views Thursday, February 20, 2025

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

For Good (from Wicked) arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
This gorgeous arrangement of the tender ballad about the love shared between best friends from the hit musical “Wicked” will be the perfect showcase of your young band’s tone, phrasing and musicianship. Masterfully scored to be either a stand alone arrangement or as an accompaniment to the choral arrangement by Mac Huff. Perfect for any concert program.

Music from Wicked arr. Michael Sweeney, Grade 2 Flex-Band
This very playable yet effectively powerful setting of highlights from the hit Broadway musical about the life and times of the Wicked Witch of the West is now available in flexible format. Titles include: “No One Mourns the Wicked,” “Dancing Through Life,” “Defying Gravity,” and “For Good.”

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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Pyramid Power by Doug Beach & George Shutack, Grade 1
This driving rock chart is sure to be a hit, not only with the band, but with the audience as well. The infectious groove, the building pyramids, and the catchy melody all combine to create a perfect chart for your next program. The Jazz Foundations scoring ensures that the chart will work with virtually any instrumentation.

Soul Chicken by Kris Berg, Grade 2.5
A very soulful alto sax 1 feature with a relaxed rock-flavored groove played around 86 BPM. Everything is written out for the alto including a suggested ad-lib solo section. Trumpet 1 range is to written G on top of the staff. An electric piano and bass will provide a nice texture. An outstanding chart for any performance.

Hey, Elephant! by Drew Zaremba, Grade 2
You may be familiar with Drew Zaremba from his YouTube channel which features his fantastic big band and a host of super solos. This chart is a rockin’ good time and will be a blast for your band and audience.

Megalovania arr. Rick Stitzel, Grade 1.5
Retro music from “old school” video games never goes out of style. This popular and quirky theme from “Undertale” will quickly become one of your students’ favorites. This easy version features modest ranges and easy-to-learn patterns.

Phat Tuesday by Peter Sciaino, Grade 4
In the composer’s own words, “I was going for a New Orleans vibe…like a Dirty Dozen Brass Band sort of thing but it went J.B. horns (James Brown) style at some point.” That beautifully sums up this great new funk chart – searing horn lines and a cooking rhythm section.

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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

recommended by Caryn G., Sacred Piano Music Specialist

From Heaven Above: Glorious Hymns of the Reformation Era for Solo Piano arr. Larry Shackley
Larry Shackley sets his sights on hymns stemming from the Reformation in the superb new collection. Featuring well-known hymns as well as musical gems that might be less familiar to many contemporary congregations, pianists will relish every page. Larry’s arrangements, crafted for the advanced pianist, feature all of the trademarks of his arranging style, including jazz harmonies as well as classical and contemporary stylings.

Titles include: “All Glory Be to God on High,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “From Heaven Above I Come to You,” “In Thee Is Gladness,” “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” “Bread of the World,” “Fanfare on the Doxology,” and “Comfort, Comfort Now My People.”

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About the Author:
Caryn G. is a graduate of Trinity Lutheran College (Washington state). She has over 24 years of experience working at Stanton’s in both the Piano and Choral departments, specializing in sacred piano music. She is a church pianist/accompanist and has enjoyed being a piano teacher and singing in many choirs over the years. When not working at Stanton’s or at church, she loves spending time with family members and friends, traveling and exploring, watching movies, reading, bike riding and most recently trying to better her culinary knowledge and be a little more artsy by painting rocks and water coloring.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Hallelu! He Lives! arr. Ruth Elaine Schram, 2-part with piano
Here’s a joyous, energetic praise anthem celebrating the resurrection. This partner song pairs the traditional chorus “Hallelu, Hallelu” with a simple complementary vocal line that creates an accessible part-singing experience for even younger elementary singers. Invite parents or even grandparents and other relatives to rehearse and sing with the children for an intergenerational worship moment.

Alleluia, Amen! arr. Vicki Hancock Wright, Unison/2-part with piano
“Alleluia, Amen!” is an energetic setting of a familiar hymn appropriate for children’s voices. It is a call for all to praise God and can be used at various times throughout the church year. Though it can be done completely in unison, there is an optional descant/response part that will provide an extra challenge for your more experienced singers.

Celebrate Jesus! He’s Alive! by Lynn Shaw Bailey, Unison/2-part with piano and optional glockenspiel or handbells
With words of celebration and music that sparkles, the joy of Christ’s resurrection fills this anthem from start to finish. A brief snippet of the hymn tune, LLANFAIR, along with its acclamation of “alleluias,” heightens the sense of jubilation and praise. Optional glockenspiel or handbells provide a perfect addition for Easter worship.

Give of Your Best by Vicki Hancock Wright, Unison with piano
A classic hymn text takes on a new shine with captivating music and a flowing accompaniment. The lilting, seamless melody is tuneful and memorable, helping children internalize the message to truly give their best and live the fullness of God’s love in their lives.

Joyfully Sing! by Allen Pote, Unison with piano and optional flute
Seasoned composer Allen Pote has created a bright and lovely celebration of praise and thanksgiving to God for God’s gift of creation. The closing text reminds us that we are indeed all God’s children. It can be sung completely in unison, but the harmonized ending will be an exciting conclusion to the piece. Add the flute for an extra glow. Truly delightful!

My Faith’s Got Shoes by Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano and optional conga & shakers
This anthem features a catchy melody that kids will sing all year long, a grooving piano accompaniment with optional percussion, and a message that sticks. It’s no surprise that this song will become a favorite of your choristers. A great selection for a music and arts camp, vacation Bible school, or Sunday school theme song.

Shout! Shout Hosanna! by Charles McCartha, Unison/2-part with piano
This Palm Sunday anthem is bursting with energy, anticipation, and joy. Developing voices shine with a melody written in the perfect range for young treble voices. Add the optional second part for older elementary or middle school singers, allowing them to explore their expanded alto range and become confident part singers.

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Comfort Zone by Paul Clark, Grade 2.5
Paul Clark’s “Comfort Zone” is a super-hip laid-back jazz ballad featuring a trumpet, alto, tenor and trombone quartet trading off with great ensemble sections. Numerous abrupt dynamic changes really get the listener’s attention. The open solo section is over basic blues changes with tasteful backgrounds, and you can’t get any more comfortable than that. This chart is the perfect vehicle to “lay back” from all the up-tempo tunes and just wail away on some free and easy jazz. Wonderful writing at this grade level. Highly recommended!

Reggaeton by Steve Shanley, Grade 2.5
The “reggaeton” genre is one of the most popular musical styles in the world, and now you can finally play it with your jazz band! Steve Shanley’s “Reggaeton” utilizes the infectious groove in a jazz chart for developing musicians. You’ll love the accessible rhythm section parts and easy solo section, and your young jazzers will love the feel and groove of this fun chart. A perfect closer for your next concert or festival! Highly recommended!

10 Miles from Home by Steve Briody, Grade 3
This modern-jazz, moderate-tempo ballad features a beautiful melody and chord changes, combined with the forward pulse from your drummer’s ride cymbal pattern and the rhythm section. It’s a wonderful opportunity to feature your alto or flugel player on the lyrical (written-out) solo section. The wide range of dynamics leading to the inspiring outro section provides an outstanding musical “journey” for your students!

Rampart Street Festival arr. Kris Berg, Grade 3.5
The catchy and funky groove of New Orleans second-line style is beloved not only by the locals, but listeners worldwide. Kris Berg’s “Rampart Street Revival” is an energetic, re-imagining of the classic hymn “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” cast in the second-line style. This chart features catchy ensemble, creative harmonies, solo space for alto and trumpet, and an infectious groove! Perfect for any setting, “Rampart Street Revival” will have your audience dancing in the aisles like it’s Mardi Gras. Ça ç’est bon!

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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Aces of the Sky by Christina Huss, Grade 2
This new, accessible march from up and coming composer Christina Huss is the perfect introduction to march style. In a traditional style, this piece has everything you need to teach march style and put on a great show at the same time. A worthwhile chart for any concert band library.

The Attorney General by Karl L. King/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 4
Here’s a Karl King march that is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! “The Attorney General” has all the hallmarks of great King marches – tuneful melodies, exciting countermelodies, and that unique sound you’ll only find in a “Kingtune!” Exciting parts for all sections of the band make this a sure favorite for performers as well as audiences.

The Crosley March by Henry Fillmore/arr. Loras John Schissel, Grade 4
Written for Powell Crosley of the Crosley Radio Corporation, “The Crosley March” arranged by Loras John Schissel resounds with the zest of Fillmore at his best. It’s not easy, but it’s worth any time needed to work it up.

Trouping Days by Karl L. King/arr. Gene Milford, Grade 3
“Trouping Days” is a popular “band wagon” march, played fast and loud as the band rode through towns to attract customers. This arrangement by Gene Milford exhibits Karl King’s wonderful gift for melody and is scored for the current concert band from his original edition.

Heartland March by Randall D. Standridge, Grade 2
Take a trip down home in this dazzling work that mixes bluegrass music with the traditional march structure. Fiddle and folk harmonies inspire the catchy melodies, with engaging parts for all instrumentalists. With optional parts for authentic bluegrass instruments, this march will be sure to leave your audience’s toes tapping at your next concert or festival performance!

Blackthorn March by Randall D. Standridge, Grade 1.5
Return to the Darklands with this exciting Grade 1 march. Dark harmonies and precise articulations combine to paint a portrait of Lady Blackthorn, the mysterious figure who rules the outer edges of the kingdom. Mixing elements of traditional march structure with a cinematic flair, this work will be an excellent introduction to the genre for younger and developing musicians and will be a perfect choice for your next festival or concert performance!

March of the Hobgoblins by Randall D. Standridge, Grade 1.5
Dance rhythms and creepy melodies combine in this new 6/8 concert march for young band! Inspired by the mischievous spirits of the British Isles, it paints a portrait of imps dancing and cavorting in a dark forest. Scored carefully to serve as an approachable introduction to compound meter, your performers and audiences will enjoy the catchy melodies, dark harmonies, and colorful scoring as every player gets the chance to shine!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Crown Him Lord of All arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional brass, organ & timpani
This rousing resurrection anthem blends the familiar hymn with Sharon Damazio’s popular Easter praise song, “Crown Him King of Kings.” To enhance your Easter celebration, there are options to add organ, brass, and timpani.

Risen Indeed! by Victor C. Johnson, SATB a cappella
Victor Johnson showcases his artistic brilliance in this original a cappella spiritual. The call-and-response section between choir and soloist, the rollicking ostinato featured in the final pages, and the irresistible rhythmic vitality of the choral writing all contribute to a winning anthem that expresses the joy believers share on Easter morning.

Alleluia! He Lives! arr. Dennis Allen, SATB with piano and optional praise team & congregation
This arrangement is from the new and bestselling Choir + Praise Series featuring choral anthems with optional praise team. The pairing of Beethoven’s classic HYMN TO JOY with Bill and Gloria Gaither’s universally loved “Because He Lives” results in a joyful celebration of praise!

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists

Spirituals Dialect: A Practical Guide for Singers, Voice Teachers, and Choral Conductors by Rosephanye Powell
Rosephanye Powell’s brilliant guide helps singers sing, interpret, and express the meaning and beauty of the spiritual. While it is written as a quick reference for the independent singer, vocal instructor, or choral director, it can be a valuable resource for private voice lessons, diction courses, studio classes, choral classes, and any setting where spirituals are studied and performed – a brilliant resource provided by a world-class singer, composer, arranger, teacher, and scholar.

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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.

recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist

Blessed Assurance arr. Sondra K. Tucker, 3-5 (6) octaves handbells & handchimes, Level 3
With an easy lilt that feels like a stroll on a Sunday afternoon, this creative arrangement of the familiar hymn ASSURANCE is sure to bring comfort and a sense of peace to your worship service. Written in 9/8, the piece flows along with melody first in treble bells, then with chimes in the battery, and ending with a fuller statement of the opening. A charming piece that all will enjoy.

All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name arr. Sandra Eithun, 3-6 octaves, Level 2+
Suitable for Easter, Christ the King, or general worship, this setting is a solid piece of handbell literature that will make your ensemble shine. The use of LV against thick chords conveys the strength of the hymn.

Blessed By the Spirit arr. Karen Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2+
This lush, flowing medley of two gorgeous hymntunes provides a moment of calm assurance. Intricate harmonies abound, and the addition of melody lines on handchimes enhances the beauty of this setting.

A Blessing by Michael Helman, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2+
Written in honor of his grandsons, this delicate original from Michael Helman is perfect for the intermediate choir looking to focus on their musicality. Flowing accompaniment lines and a heartfelt melody combine to make this a truly gorgeous experience.

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands arr. Benjamin A. Tucker, 3-5 (6) octaves handbells & handchimes, Level 3
Enjoy this swing setting of the cherished spiritual – the stopped techniques make it sing! A walking bass, an ethereal B section for “He’s got the wind and the rain,” and some jazz chords along the way make this a fun piece for worship or concert.

In Christ Alone arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves with optional piano, Level 2
The popular contemporary Christian hymn is set here for Level 2 handbells and optional piano. Beautiful and accessible.

It Is Well with My Soul arr. Karen Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves with optional piano, Level 2+
Enveloping listeners in an atmosphere of peace and serenity, this setting captures the essence of the beloved hymn’s message of faith and resilience. While it can be performed with handbells only, the piano accompaniment fills in harmonies and adds rhythmic interest, deepening the emotional resonance of the piece.

Jerusalem, My Happy Home arr. Anna Laura Page, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
Simple and lush, this setting of the hymntune LAND OF REST is perfect for use throghout the church year. With minimal technical challenges, ensembles can instead focus on growing in their musicality and performance.

The King of Love My Shepherd Is arr. Jantz A. Black, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
Simplistic beauty is the best way to describe this lovely arrangement. Accessible at Level 2, ringers and listeners will be enchanted by its charming beauty.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty arr. Sondra K. Tucker, 2-5 octaves, Level 2
Accessible to most groups, yet energetic and exciting, this setting of Lobe den Herren is written for two to five octave handbells, making it an excellent festival selection or worship selection for groups large or small.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
This approachable setting of the hymntune LOBE DEN HERREN is perfect for use throughout the church year. The melody moves throughout the ensemble, giving all parts a chance to shine, and there are just enough harmonic twists to keep each verse fresh and exciting!

Prelude on Abbott’s Leigh arr. Sandra Eithun, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2
Enchanting and expansive, here is a new arrangement of the historic tune commonly paired with Fred Pratt Green’s “God Is Here!” and Jeffery Rowthorn’s “Lord, You Give the Great Commission.” Sweeping harmonies in the beginning give way to crisp mallets in the middle section, then return to create a glorious finish.

Rejoice, the Lord Is King arr. Ron Mallory, 3-5 octaves, Level 3
This sparkling arrangement of Darwell’s 148th features Mallory’s trademark rhythmic accompaniment and uses stopped techniques to add interest and excitement right up to the end!

Rejoice, the Lord Is King arr. Linda Scholes, 2-3 or 3-6 octaves, Level 2+
This powerful setting of DARWALL’S 148TH is a perfect choice for the Easter season or any time something bold and celebratory is called for. Available in compatible 2-3 and 3-6 octave settings, its bold harmonies and driving rhythms are equally at home in church as in concert or festival settings.

When In Our Music God Is Glorified arr. Sondra K. Tucker, 3-5 octaves with optional keyboard, brass & congregation, Level 2
This flexible setting of the beloved hymn tune, ENGLEBERG, stands alone as a handbell piece, and features optional parts for keyboard, brass, and a soprano descant. Any combination of the instruments can also serve as the accompaniment to congregational singing. Additional texts set to ENGELBERG include, “We Know That Christ Is Raised,” and “All Praise to Thee, For Thou, O King Divine.”

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.