News & Views Sunday, December 08, 2024

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

Little Voice arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano
“Sometimes a little voice can say the biggest things.” This beautiful Sara Bareilles ballad encourages us to find our authentic voice and courageously use it. This simplified, shortened arrangement makes an ideal piece for school choirs promising success and enjoyment.

I Ain’t Worried arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
One Republic is always a hit with student singers because the songs are melodic and fun to sing. The standout feature is an easy whistle melody that occurs at the beginning and between verses. Unison singing and call and response phrases are ideal for growing choirs.

Ripple (from Spirited) arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano
Throw a stone into the water and watch the ripples spread. This is the metaphor found in the song “Ripple.” Bursting with energy and life, the song encourages one and all to be the person who makes some waves and changes the world.

Soldier, Poet, King arr. Roger Emerson, SAB with piano and optional fiddle & rhythm
Based on the writings of C.S. Lewis, a deep and introspective lyric is given an almost whimsical treatment in this song from the folk rock duo, The Oh Hellos. This eccentric combination is part of the appeal and makes for a very singable selection for ensembles of all sizes and styles.

You Belong with Me arr. Bryan Sharpe, SAB a cappella
A Taylor Swift hit in three voicings! Bryan’s contemporary a cappella arrangement bubbles with youthful charm. There’s no divisi, but a full palette of choral colors is on display. A featured soloist is accompanied in a variety of ways by the other voices as they imitate instruments of a pop band. It’s a blast from start to finish.

Talking to the Moon arr. Cristi Cary Miller, SAB with piano
A haunting pop ballad with poetic lyrics and a melody that will echo in your mind, Bruno Mars’ “Talking to the Moon” is given a stellar choral treatment by Cristi Cary Miller. Intricate vocals and a driving piano part combine in a sweeping, cinematic sound.

Your Song arr. Mac Huff, 2-part with piano
This setting of the 1971 Elton John classic is marvelously singable, with warm harmonic textures and delicate piano stylings. Sure to produce a memorable concert moment.

I’m Still Standing arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
Elton John writes great songs, and this one is no exception. Featured in movies like “Top Gun” and “Sing,” this well known song is packed with energy and drive. A classic rock song from a classic performer!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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 Caryn G. and Christopher B., Sacred Piano Music Specialists

The Everlasting Song (Fresh Hymn Arrangements for the Piano) arr. Mary McDonald
Adding her distinctive touch to these classic hymns, Mary McDonald has provided a rich resource for church pianists everywhere. Ideally suited for times of prelude, prayer, response, Communion, offertory, and so much more, particularly during the Spring season, this collection is also ideal for times of personal worship at home. Titles include: “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” “Be Thou My Vision,” “I Am Resolved,” “Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley,” “Beneath the Cross of Jesus,” “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” “How Can I Keep from Singing?,” “I Love to Tell the Story,” “This Is My Father’s World,” and “Triumphant Resurrection.”

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
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.

Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Capriccio by James Barnes, Grade 3
“Capriccio” is the third composition by James Barnes that resulted from a commission by the Zushi High School Alumni Band in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a light-hearted, happy piece in rondo form, full of bell tones in the brass, accompanied by jazzy harmony, long melodic lines and lots of counterpoint in the woodwinds.

Forgotten Dreams by Leroy Anderson/arr. R. Mark Rogers, Grade 3
“Forgotten Dreams” was completed on May 28, 1954. The first performance was a few days later on June 2nd during a recording session for Delta Records in New York, at which time Leroy Anderson performed the piano solo himself. The main theme was intended to be played on the piano; however, the composer’s band edition of the piece allowed for a solo flute to substitute in its absence. It is also suggested the melody might be beautifully rendered on vibraphone due to the sustaining quality of that instrument. In any event, this charmingly romantic miniature will delight audiences whenever it is performed.

Midnight Fire Alarm by Harry J. Lincoln/arr. John Fulton, Grade 3.5
Prepare for a musical thrill ride with “Midnight Fire Alarm,” an electrifying concert band composition that ignites the stage with its blazing intensity and fiery passion. Arranged by John Fulton, this adrenaline-fueled masterpiece takes listeners on a heart-pounding journey through the chaos and urgency of a midnight fire alarm.

Rondo (from Third Suite) by Robert E. Jager/arr. Chris Bernotas, Grade 3
This arrangement from Jager’s timeless Third Suite is thoughtfully scored for intermediate-level bands. Memorable main themes and countermelodies, coupled with rhythmic drive, propel the music forward with momentum and excitement straight through to the end.

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 Austin Swack, Instrumental Education Specialist

Alis Volat Propriis by Soon Hee Newbold, Grade 5
A unique work with an opportunity to showcase an optional harp with your strings, “Alis Volat Propriis” (She Flies With Her Own Wings) is a stunning new work by Soon Hee Newbold. Contrasting sections with a lyrical melody and a driving presto section highlight different techniques and interesting lines among all voices. This piece captures elements of contemporary with the classical. An incredible work!

Salut d’Amour by Edward Elgar/arr. Soon Hee Newbold, Grade 4
This well-known and beloved melody has been exquisitely set for strings with beautiful lyrical lines shared by all voices of the orchestra. Originally titled Liebesgruss (“Love’s Greeting”), “Salut d’Amour” is one of Edward Elgar’s most loved and known works. Well crafted with a mature depth of orchestration, this arrangement by Soon Hee Newbold will be extremely memorable to your performers and audience.

Gravitas by Soon Hee Newbold, Grade 3
A grand opening or closing piece for your next concert, “Gravitas” is a powerful work celebrating strength, beauty, and the journey that shapes us. Highly cinematic and inspirational, Soon Hee Newbold’s music includes soaring lines that will take your group to the next level as the adrenaline rushes in. Optional harp and percussion add even more!

“Gravitas” was commissioned by the Columbus Symphony Chamber Strings for their 40th anniversary. The title pays tribute to the organization’s impact and the area, and the larger than life presence of their founder, Dr. Robert Gillespie. Also available in an edition for Full Orchestra.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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!