News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

“All Aboard, Little Children!” 29 September, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper and Alissa Ruth, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialists

Welcome your elementary singers back to school with one of these great choral octavos, as featured on Stanton’s Elementary General Music Clinic with Sharon Burch:

alfred-514491All Aboard, Little Children! arr. Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid
Get on board with this lively partner song adaptation of the well-known traditional spiritual! Featuring easy-to-sing countermelodies for both the verse and chorus, it’s a snap to put together and an excellent first experience with singing in parts.

El Coqui arr. Mark Burrows
This traditional song from Puerto Rico is a whimsical tune about a small, nocturnal tree-frog. It features easy and interesting 2-part writing and the use of percussion instruments including a “croaking frog” will be fun for a wide range of ages. The piece may be sung entirely in Spanish, entirely in English or in a mixture of both! Fantastic opportunities for musical and multicultural learning.

leon-512099The Erie Canal arr. Cristi Cary Miller
This is a favorite song for connecting music to American history and culture! Singers in elementary and middle school will gain important performance skills and sound their best with this easily learned setting.

Shoo Fly! arr. Greg Gilpin
This frolicsome American folk song is sure to leave toes tapping and hands clapping. A spoken rhythmic introduction ushers in the familiar melody, which is ultimately accompanied by independent counterlines at the height of Greg’s playful arrangement.

leon-509436Swing Song by Mac Huff
Here is an original jazz suite that is perfectly suited to treble choirs or developing mixed groups in middle school and high school. The lyrics for all three songs are about the joy and fun of singing and include an opening tune in medium swing, a jazz waltz and an uptempo cut-time swing.

We’ll Meet Again arr. Roger Emerson
This song, one of the most famous of the World War II era, was reprised on the last broadcast of The Colbert Report by Stephen Colbert and an assembled crowd of many of his most prominent guests. A great concert closer or graduation selection!

For more exciting elementary choral resources, please contact us, and remember – 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 good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Columbus area, and spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.


SO THERE from Ben Folds 28 September, 2017

HOT OFF THE PRESS from Hal Leonard is the new vocal folio “So There,” from Ben Folds‘ 2015 album. Ben Folds says in the introduction to the songbook, that his “goal was to transcribe these songs in a way that relays what I would ideally play.” The piano solo parts are satisfyingly challenging, words to the songs are included, and the melody stands apart from the piano accompaniment. A special bonus is exclusive online access to six all new studio recordings featuring Ben Folds alone at the piano!

This is the first new album from Ben Folds in quite some time – it’s time to treat yourself to some new music! Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Community Band Spotlight: At the Movies 27 September, 2017

by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist –

This post is part of a series highlighting music for community bands.

Next up in the Community Band Spotlight are several new movie arrangements that will be guaranteed hits with your audience.  James Horner’s score writing is as unique and instantly identifiable as anyone who has written for Hollywood.  At the Movies with James Horner features music from The Pelican Brief, Troy, and Glory.  We’re sure your ensemble will enjoy playing his music.  We have 2 arrangements that we’re excited to share from Disney’s Moana – a medley of the movie’s most popular songs, Selections from Moana; and a wonderful Matt Conaway arrangement of lead character Moana’s big song, How Far I’ll Go.  Not only was it nominated for Best Original Song, Auli’i Cravalho’s performance on the soundtrack is phenomenal!  Both of these arrangements are sure to be popular with the preschool and elementary set in your audience (and probably some adults, too!).  Rounding out the group is the in-demand Highlights from La La Land.  The music from this movie was such a refreshing hit that we had continuous requests for band and orchestra arrangements at all of the music education conferences last winter, and we couldn’t keep the piano and vocal collections in stock!  By popular demand, Michael Brown has crafted a fine medley from the award-winning soundtrack.  Visit our concert band page for more great new and back-list arrangements, and shop Stanton’s for all your community band sheet music needs.

At the Movies with James Horner
arr. Justin Williams
Belwin Concert Band
Grade 3                                    $77.00
James Horner’s film scores are fresh, unmistakable, and timelessly melodic. This collection is not so much a medley of tunes as it is a portrait of his styles and moods. Incorporating selections from The Pelican Brief, Troy, and Glory, the piece is a tapestry of the dramatic and emotional cinematic textures only James Horner can provide.

How Far I’ll Go (from Moana)
arr. Matt Conaway
Hal Leonard Concert Band
Grade 3                                    $55.00
From Disney’s animated blockbuster Moana, and nominated for “Best Original Song,” here is the energetic and upbeat single How Far I’ll Go in a solidly scored and well-paced version for the concert stage.

** By Popular Demand!! **
Highlights from La La Land
arr. Michael Brown
Hal Leonard Concert Band
Grade 3                                    $70.00
The critically acclaimed and widely popular movie musical La La Land features fresh-sounding songs and an award-winning soundtrack. Beautifully scored for concert band, this medley includes Another Day of Sun, City of Stars, Mia & Sebastion’s Theme, and Audition (The Fools Who Dream).

Selections from Moana
arr. Jay Bocook
Hal Leonard Concert Band
Grade 3                                    $70.00
Disney’s blockbuster animated film features catchy songs from the composer of Broadway’s Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda. Here’s an entertaining medley for the concert stage that includes: How Far I’ll Go, We Know the Way, Where You Are, and You’re Welcome.

About the Author:
Ken is a former band director, and has been with Stanton’s since 2004.  His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies.  Besides music, he geeks out on amusement parks, hockey (especially the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champion Penguins), the Steelers, and all things Pittsburgh.


EVERYBODY PLAYS: Guitar Ensembles 26 September, 2017

recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

g1043Looking for exciting music for guitar ensembles in the classroom or studio? The FJH series “Everybody’s Guitar Method” has two great sets of guitar ensembles perfect for up to six players. The arrangers, Philip Groeber and Matthew Joy, have written parts at varying skill levels to accommodate as many players as possible. Recordings are included to assist the student in the important skills of accurate note playing and rhythm.

“Everybody’s Guitar Ensembles” is designed to teach guitarists how to perform well with other musicians – a valuable school for students as they learn! All pieces in this book are adaptable to either pick-style playing or classical technique, and have been carefully graded so that beginning students may participate very early in their music training. The easiest ensemble uses all quarter notes (except for the final note), with each performer playing natural notes on only one string (each part using a different string). New concepts such as sharps, flats, chords, and other rhythm values are introduced gradually throughout the book.

EVERYBODY PLAYS! #1 includes “Amazing Grace,” “Go, Tell It On the Mountain,” “Hope It’s Santa,” “Look At the Stars,” and “Mary Ann.” EVERYBODY PLAYS #2 includes “Blues for Fela,” “El Condor Pasa,” “Fur Elise,” “Ja-Da,” and “Relentless Rocker.”

Find more resources for guitar ensembles on our website, and 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.


“Child of the Promise” 25 September, 2017

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

Prepare for Christmas with your church choir with one of these outstanding anthems, carefully selected by our experienced Sacred Choral Music staff.

alfred-46503-fPeople, Look East arr. Howard Helvey
With an optional, brief a cappella opening, this anthem continues with a refreshing and hopeful tone for a people longing for the Messiah. This traditional Advent French carol is a staple in choral repertoire, and Howard Helvey’s setting is welcome and delightful.

All My Heart This Night Rejoices arr. Trevor Manor
This beautiful arrangement of the traditional German carol, scored for SATB choir and optional French horn or optional brass quintet, harp, organ and percussion, is rich and warm in its harmonies and gentle rhythms.

Fear Not! by Mary McDonald
The soulful, gospel touch to this anthem is the perfect musical connection to enrich words of comfort and celebration to “fear not.” Also incorporating the carol “How Great Our Joy,” this offering is a celebration of good tidings of great joy!

HopeChoralTemplateIt Came Upon the Midnight Clear arr. Joel Raney
This lovely, artistic setting is sure to be a highlight of many Christmas concerts, school programs, and Christmas worship services. The piano part plays a significant role in creating an ethereal, peaceful, and solemn Christmas night building to the moment when “all the weary world rejoice!”-simply stunning!

Bring Us Hope by Ruth Elaine Schram
Choirs large and small will find this flexible anthem to be a tender, readily learned addition to their Advent programs. The message touches on several prominent themes, making it an ideal option to return to again and again: “Bring us hope, bring us love, bring us peace from above.”

lorenz-515080Child of the Promise by Jay Rouse
From the very beginning, this anthem draws you in with its stirring original text from Rose Aspinall. Combined with a lovely melody from Jay Rouse, this piece invites us all to worship the Child of the Promise. Jay creatively pairs the chorus melody with an excerpt of “O Holy Night” in the latter part of the piece to add familiarity and further draw in the listener.

Once In Royal Bethlehem by Ruth Elaine Schram
Cleverly combining two Christmas favorites, this tender anthem provides the opportunity for a children’s choir to open with the melody to “Once in Royal David’s City.” Transitioning seamlessly into “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” the optional cello accompaniment beautifully sets a tone of peace and comfort.

When Came In Flesh the Incarnate Word by Howard Helvey
New music from the uncommonly creative Howard Helvey is paired with a poetic 19th century text to create a quietly majestic new anthem. The exquisite organ accompaniment provides a solid foundation for this message of hope and contemplation.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, visit our website or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. 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.


Composer Profile: Craig Courtney 22 September, 2017

by Alissa Ruth, Choral Specialist

Whenever I see one of Craig Courtney’s pieces comes my way, I know that it will have a singable melody, warm, rich harmonies, and an expressive piano accompaniment.

Mr. Courtney is currently a Composer and the Executive Music Editor for Beckenhorst Press, and his music is performed all over the world. He began playing the piano at the age of three and the cello at the age of eleven, and both his Bachelors and Masters degrees in piano performance are from the University of Cincinnati.

Mr. Courtney studied piano with Illonka Deckers in Milan, Italy for three years, then moved to Salzburg, Austria to join the faculty of the famed Mozarteum, serving as a piano teacher and accompanist for the woodwind and brass department. During his time in Salzburg, he also served in the music ministry of the Salzburg International Baptist Church, and it was for this position that he began composing sacred choral music due to the unavailability of English language music.

His first published octavo “Thy Will Be Done” came to the attention of John Ness Beck, and the men worked closely together until Mr. Beck’s death in 1987. In making plans for the ongoing of Beckenhorst Press, Mr. Beck appointed Craig Courtney to assume his responsibilities as staff composer and editor.

At this point in time, Mr. Courtney’s published works include more than two hundred choral octavos, nine vocal collections, a piano solo collection and six extended works for choir and orchestra. Compositionally, Mr. Courtney combines his training and background as a pianist, a cellist, a vocal coach, an accompanist and a choral director to create works that bear his unique style. He has been a frequent recipient of ASCAP achievement awards and his composition, “Peace I Give to You,” was awarded 1st place in the 2003 John Ness Beck Foundation competition.

The music of Craig Courtney is available through Stanton’s from several publishers, including Beckenhorst Press and The Lorenz Corporation. For more information about Craig Courtney and his music, please visit his website.

Stanton’s Recommends: Come Home, The Yearning, We Three Kings, Father of Light, Mercy, Ukrainian Alleluia

About the Author:
Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, as well as various choirs in the Columbus area, and she spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.


Halloween Piano Party! 21 September, 2017

recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Many piano teachers host Halloween recitals and a party afterwards for their studios. The students (and parents sometimes too!) dress up for the evening and have games and refreshments after the recital – what fun!

wp411Halloween-themed piano solos are available in varying difficulty levels for students of all ages. From Jane and Lisa Bastien, the collection “Halloween Treats” is available from Primer level to Level Four. Alfred Music has different levels of Halloween piano solos, too, including solos sheets such as “The Galloping Ghost” by Glenda Austin, or “October Moonlight” by Jeanne Costello. There are books of Halloween solos that include songs like “Monster Mash,” the Twilight Zone theme, and more! Spoooooky!!

Now is the time to start planning for an evening of Halloween fun! 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.


Let’s All Sing! – Song Collections for Elementary 20 September, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper and Alissa Ruth, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialists

Gettin' Down with Mama Goose 4.0Gettin’ Down with Mama Goose 4.0 by Mark Burrows
Suggested for grades K-3

Mark Burrows gave us “The Ultimate Gettin’ Down with Mama Goose” in a collection packed with music, rhyme and fun! His creative mind continues using the Mother Goose rhymes in this collection, “Gettin’ Down with Mama Goose 4.0,” inspiring teachers and students with a variety of subjects, musical styles, texts, languages and smart activities that take learning to a whole new level – all while reinforcing literacy! This budget stretcher features piano/vocal arrangements, as well as digital access to performance/accompaniment audio recordings and singer PDFs for projection and reproducible options.

We like this collection because of the age-appropriate ranges, singable melodies and intervals, and the literature connections that provide a way to introduce these characters that we know and love.

Songs include: Mama Goose Is Ready, Little Bo Peep, Jack and Jill, Knick-Knack, Miss Mary Mack, Humpty Dumpty and more!

Let's All Sing - MoanaLet’s All Sing Songs from Moana arr. Tom Anderson
Suggested for grades 4-8

The Disney film “Moana” is tremendously entertaining, with stunning oceanic animation, a captivating adventure tale, feisty heroine and tuneful musical numbers by “Hamilton”’s Lin-Manuel Miranda and the authentic Polynesian sounds of Opetaia Foa’I and Te Vaka. The arrangements in this collection have been carefully adapted for young unison voices with optional harmonies for added fun, and are sure to be an unforgettable musical experience for singers and audiences alike! This value-packed collection of songs and professionally-produced recordings are perfect for group singing in the classroom, choir or community.

We like this collection because it presents a good way to get kids excited about singing, the ranges are generally very accessible, and the songs chosen are great for this type of collection.

Songs include: How Far I’ll Go, Shiny, We Know the Way, Where You Are, You’re Welcome.

Music of our RootsMusic of Our Roots by Rollo Dilworth
Suggested for grades 3-6

Experience the songs of our heritage with the music that makes our country unique. Learn the background of each song, a flexible teaching sequence, and how to adapt each song for any grade level. These cross-curricular classroom songs will also translate easily to a concert presentation for school assemblies or community engagement. The collection includes piano/vocal arrangements and reproducible singer songsheets. Accompany your singers live with simple piano parts, or use quality performance/accompaniment MP3 recordings available via audio access in the Performance Kit.

We like this collection because of the accessible ranges for beginning choral experience, the wealth of background information provided, and the intelligent lesson ideas.

Songs include: I’ve Been Working on the Railroad, I’ve Got Peace Like a River, My Country ‘Tis of Thee, Nine Hundred Miles, Old Joe Clark, Ramblin’ Blues, and more!

If you have questions about these or other elementary music resources, visit our website at stantons.com, email us at choral@stantons.com, or call us at 1.800.42.MUSIC, ext. 1. We are happy to help with all of 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 good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Columbus area, and spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.


Community Band Spotlight: New Favorites 19 September, 2017

by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist –

This post is the first in a series highlighting music for community bands.

While our emphasis is primarily on school band programs and music education, the band staff at Stanton’s places a focus on community bands, as well.  Some of this is thanks to the numerous groups we’re so fortunate to have in Central Ohio and around the state, but it is also the outgrowth of some tailored community band promotions we were doing several years ago.

At the time we were focusing on featuring music specifically useful to community bands, summer outdoor concerts, etc.  This led us to realizing how many new arrangements there are each year that are perfect for these groups, and in some instances, pieces that will almost exclusively appeal to community bands.  Over the past 8 years or so this has resulted in a special Community Band category of over 300 titles (all recent releases) within Stanton’s Signature Selections on our website, and each year as we preview the 500+ new releases for concert band, titles that are uniquely suitable for community groups are highlighted and added.  Of course, we keep an ear out for new marches, patriotic pieces, movie and pop arrangements, and novelty numbers, but we also feature some of the best new concert works for groups that meet all year and have formal concerts in the fall through spring.

We are excited to kick off this series with our favorite new arrangements from this year’s releases!  They are some absolute gems which is why they’re being highlighted first.  Among them are wonderful Alfred Reed arrangements of 2 classics, Victor Young’s original theme to the 1956 motion picture Around the World in 80 Days, and a lush arrangement of jazz standard Autumn Leaves; a fun, original stylistic programming alternative from the pen of Michael Sweeney, Blue Mambo; and an original patriotic work with narration from Robert W. Smith that pays tribute to the men and women who served in so many ways during World War II appropriately titled The Greatest Generation.  This work is available in two difficulty levels.  I really hope you and your audience enjoy these titles as much as we do!

Around the World in 80 Days
Arranged Alfred Reed; edited by R. Mark Rogers
Grade 3                                                    $75.00
Jules Verne’s popular 1873 adventure novel, Around the World in Eighty Days, has inspired countless readers, as well as two motion pictures. The first of these, produced by Michael Todd and released in 1956 featured a score by Victor Young that would earn him his sole Oscar Award (awarded posthumously in 1957) for best motion picture score. This arrangement for concert band by Alfred Reed captures the magical essence of Young’s original score. Reed’s singular talent for band writing would lead to engagements as staff composer for NBC and ABC television from 1948-1953.

Autumn Leaves
Arranged Alfred Reed; edited by R. Mark Rogers
Grade 3                                                    $75.00
The iconic tune Autumn Leaves “Les feuilles mortes” by Hungarian-born composer Joseph Kosma hardly requires an introduction to jazz aficionados. The music was originally set to French lyrics by Jacques Prévert, and later English lyrics by Johnny Mercer. This classic band arrangement by Alfred Reed showcases the rich harmonic language that underlines the melody with thick, sonorous orchestration. This piece can be the perfect change of pace when placed among works with quicker tempi or more rigorous demands on the players.

Blue Mambo
Michael Sweeney
Grade 3                               $65.00
Opening with a lyric section featuring a solo for flugelhorn (or trumpet), this appealing work includes sensuous melodies surrounded by lush and “bluesy” harmonies. The up-tempo “mambo” kicks in with an infectious percussion groove which accompanies the melodies and riffs from the full ensemble. A marvelous and entertaining change of pace.

The Greatest Generation
Robert W. Smith
Symphony Band Edition          Grade 4                        $95.00
Concert Band Edition              Grade 3                        $75.00
Written for the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor and gathering of heroes from around the world in December of 2016, this stirring composition pays tribute to America’s “Greatest Generation.” Beginning with a heroic fanfare, the piece transforms into lush and melodic underscore to beautiful and historic text. Originally narrated by World War II and Normandy veteran Col. Arnald D. Gabriel, this is the perfect selection to honor those that have served in the armed forces past and present.

Keep following our blog for future Community Band Spotlight posts highlighting other select new arrangements.  For backlist titles, standard repertoire, and other great programming ideas check out these categories on our concert band page, and choose the difficulty most suitable for your ensemble: Essential RepertoireChristmas & Winter HolidayMarchesPop, Patriotic, & NoveltySolo, Section, & Ensemble Features, and bookmark Stanton’s for your Community Band 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 and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies.  Besides music, he geeks out on amusement parks, hockey (especially the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champion Penguins), the Steelers, and all things Pittsburgh.


“Out Standing in Their Field” 18 September, 2017

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

alfred-46515-fOut Standing in Their Field by Lee Dengler & Susan Naus Dengler
Using both familiar carols and fun, new songs, “Out Standing in Their Field” tells the Christmas story with a ragtag group of shepherds and a colorful company of angels. This 20-minute musical is easily prepared and presented, and flows with clever dialogue while ending with a powerful message. Meet Clarence, the concerned angel, Gabriel, the “cool” trumpet-playing angel, Oscar, the grouchy shepherd, Missy, the exuberant shepherd-in-training and more as they find their way to the manger…while learning that with the birth of Jesus, everyone is truly outstanding! Learn more in the Digital Reading Session.

More Christmas musicals for kids are available 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.


SPOOOOOOOKY Choral Music for Halloween 15 September, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper and Alissa Ruth, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialists

Are you looking for the perfect spooky selection to round out your choir’s Halloween program? We’ve had a great time compiling some of our favorites here for choirs of all ages, and we hope that you like these as much as we do!

Mister Zombie's Jazz ClubMister Zombie’s Jazz Club arr. Ruth Elaine Schram
This novelty piece for 3-part mixed voices offers a fun opportunity to introduce jazz, swing, and the concept of scat singing to developing singers. There are some challenging chromatics to tune, and this would be a great piece to utilize to introduce partner dancing to your middle school showchoir students. Not only is this piece an excellent teaching tool, but also its message is one of cooperation and acceptance, making it even more useful for those younger students. While the string bass part is optional, it makes the performance even more “cool.”

Zombie Jamboree

Zombie Jamboree arr. Kirby Shaw
This fun novelty number, now available for men’s voices, has been recorded by the Kingston Trio and Rockapella, and offers a great way to shake up your program for both pop and show groups.

Cauldron DanceCauldron Dance by Verdi/arr. Ryan Kelly
This third act chorus from Verdi’s Macbeth (based on Shakespeare’s play by the same name) portrays witches dancing and a diabolical spell being prepared. This new edition includes suggested tempo and dynamic markings, an accessible piano reduction, a translation/pronunciation guide, and editorial notes. Additionally, for those of you looking to take your women’s group to large group contest here in Ohio, this piece is on the Class B SSA required list.

Gaur AkelarreGaur Akelarre by Josu Elberdin
Spanish composer Josu Elberdin aims to write pieces that tell a story, and this is no exception. “Gaur Akelarre” tells the story of a coven of witches and warlocks preparing for the night, using energetic rhythms and interesting melodic leaps and harmonic passages. The piece begins in 5/8 time, and the use of both the non-traditional meter and dotted rhythms create a sense of instability in the listener, who cannot predict where the piece will go. The tongue-twisting text, liberal use of chromaticism, and use of dissonance and unexpected harmonic progressions makes this piece a showstopper.

Purple People EaterPurple People Eater arr. Greg Gilpin
Don’t be scared! This purple people eater only wants to play in a rock-and-roll band. Have some fun performing this crazy 1958 chart-topper, complete with optional kazoos and hilarious solo opportunities using funny voice effects. This would also provide a great opportunity to have kids create a bit of choreography for your group. It’s a terrific feature for guys and is now available in a new 3-part mixed voicing!

Monster Mash

Monster Mash arr. Greg Gilpin
Triadic harmonies and several spoken solos are perfect for younger groups in this fun novelty song. If you are looking for something easily put together (we think this would be excellent for your 6th grade choir!), this is the piece for you. Compare dance moves with Frankenstein, Wolfman, and Dracula, and maybe add a few of your own! If you are really feeling funky, you can ask another staff member (or your principal!) to do the reading for this fun piece.

ThrillerThriller arr. Mark Brymer
One of Michael Jackson’s signature pieces, “Thriller” was released as a single in 1984, reaching #4 on the Billboard chart. Using sound effects, horror film motifs, and music video as a promotional tool, the choreography on the song has been replicated the world over, cementing Jackson’s appeal as a global pop culture icon. Your kids would love being in charge of learning and teaching this choreography, and audiences always love this fun 80’s throwback.

JabberwockyJabberwocky by Sam Pottle
This text from Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking Glass” has been creatively set, capturing the true essence of this well-known poem. The innovative use of a variety of small percussion instruments enhances the fun and drama! Complete with notes from the composer and a pronunciation guide, this work offers a creative programming adventure!

Double TroubleDouble Trouble arr. Teena Chinn
From the award-winning film “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” comes this delightful John Williams choral work that uses the famous Shakespeare “Double, double, toil and trouble” text from Macbeth. Utilize the accompaniment track or the optional instrumental parts to capture the sounds of the original soundtrack!

For more information about these pieces and many others, feel free to browse our website (stantons.com), email us (choral@stantons.com), or call us (1.800.42.MUSIC, ext.1). We are happy to help with all of 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 good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Columbus area, and spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.


Holidays with the Orchestra – Grade 0.5-2 14 September, 2017

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Music Specialist

Brighten up the holiday section of your music library with these varied selections that can be worked up in plenty of time for your winter concert. There is lots of variety among these titles, from Christmas medleys, world music carols, classically composed winter music and more. Isn’t it time you chose some new literature? There’s an excellent selection of holiday pieces this year!

cfn-pas20-fChristmas Mash-Up arr. Larry Clark
Take lots of familiar Christmas tunes, mix them all together, and you have a Christmas Mash-Up. The setting is ideal for beginning players with the most difficult rhythm being a quarter note. This piece is perfect to highlight your first year orchestra at their very first holiday concert after as little as ten weeks of study.

Bells and Buccaneers arr. Deborah Baker Monday
What do you get when you combine pirate-like melodies and a student favorite holiday song? An instant hit for your beginners’ first winter concert! Lots of part doubling and unison rhythms for solid reinforcement, your students will feel confident and their parents will be bursting with pride upon hearing both Bells and Buccaneers! Plus your violins will get practice playing notes on their G string and using low “2.”

alfred-45818-fChant de Noel arr. Michael Story
The audience will know and love the tune, and may even know various names for it – “Sing We Now of Christmas,” “Noël Nouvelet,” “Christmas Comes Anew” or “Chant de Noël.” But what they won’t know is that your students have learned F and C natural, violins are playing E with the fourth finger instead of open and your orchestra has learned to pass off rhythms to each other. Optional triangle and shaker will add just the right touch of French Renaissance flavor to your performance.

Christmas In a Minute and a Half arr. Douglas E. Wagner
What would December concerts be without those familiar tunes that everyone loves to hear during that time of year? Here’s a medley arranged by Douglas E. Wagner of a baker’s dozen of some of the most recognized holiday tunes in the world, set in a fun, up-tempo style that is sure to be an audience hit. Even the violas get to play the melody!

grandm-gmmor192-fLos Peces en el Rio arr. Janelle Zook Cunalata
This arrangement was written to celebrate a popular Latin American Carol, “Los Peces en el Rio”, translated as, “Fish in the River.” In a nutshell, the song is about fish in a river that swim by Mary, Joseph and the newborn child, Jesus. The fish swim back and forth in the river hoping for a glimpse of the baby. The slurred eighth notes depict the fish swimming relentlessly, the staccato notes symbolize rain droplets, as fish would hear it underwater, and the Latin American Carol, “Los Peces en el Rio” is heard over the swimming and droplets. Enjoy the enchanting, minor tonality piece for string orchestra.

Sleigh Ride by Leopold Mozart/rr. Jan Farrar-Royce
Although the structure, notes, and dynamics are written by Leopold Mozart, arranger Jan Farrar-Royce takes the liberty of distributing the main themes among the sections of the string ensemble so that every player can enjoy being the horses who are trotting along, the rising and falling winter winds, and the passengers enjoying their ride.

Need more holiday options for your orchestra? Visit our website, or contact us! Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Dan C. has worked at Stanton’s since 1979, primarily with orchestra music and print promotions. A “working” musician, he’s a classical cellist, a rock & jazz bassist and a folk & country guitarist/singer. His free time is spent with family or reading, gardening, cycling and working puzzles. His series of musical puzzles (RP3 Rebus Puzzle Picture People) can be found on the Stanton’s Facebook page each Sunday. He also has a reputation as a pretty good joke teller. Seriously.


“Peace Has Come” 13 September, 2017

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

Presenting a cantata with your church choir is a wonderful way to prepare your congregation to celebrate the birth of Christ. Stanton’s Sacred Choral Music staff highly recommends these cantatas for the Christmas season:

alfred-46521-fPeace Has Come by Mary McDonald
Mary and Joseph were initially troubled, but eventually found peace. Shepherds on a hillside were trembling with fear, but were told to “fear not.” In Peace Has Come, we follow the journey of those who experienced that first Christmas night…and found peace in a new and fresh way. In the process, the listener is challenged to lay aside those illusions that promise peace, and embrace the Giver of true peace and abundant life. Create an unforgettable Christmas worship experience with Peace Has Come.

God With Us
God came to earth in the form of Jesus Christ to shed light in the darkness, bring hope to the hopeless, and instill peace within the restless. This flexible worship experience highlights this fundamental Christian belief, and has been assembled for use throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons. It can either be presented in its entirety using the proposed sequence, the Advent and Christmas sections can be performed separately (both sections include four titles), or, individual anthems can be selectively programmed for services and special events throughout the month of December. Each selection can be presented with piano accompaniment, and many also include optional instrumentation. Optional scripture readings and underscores for these readings are also provided to give additional members of your congregation opportunities for involvement.

Find more quality cantatas for your church choir on our website, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. 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.


Essential Repertoire for Band 12 September, 2017

by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist –

I am excited to share a new category on our concert band page, Essential Repertoire.  Believe it or not, we haven’t had such a listing on our website before simply because we had never created one.  Since undergrad repertoire courses can be hit-or-miss (in some cases nonexistent) and often ignore pieces for beginning & developing band, and school music libraries can be a nightmare to organize when you take over a new gig, we thought it would be helpful to provide some guidance toward standard selections at all grade levels that are good educationally and great programming.  These difficulty based categories feature cornerstone repertoire (including marches!) culled from numerous lists and professional development sessions, cross-referenced with the Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series and our 100+ years of experience as musicians, band directors, and sheet music specialists.  Highlights include:

Beginning Band – publisher grades 0.5-1
– Perfect for 1st-year players
– Includes: Anasazi (John Edmondson), A Prehistoric Suite (Paul Jennings), A Song for Friends (Larry Daehn), and The Tempest (Robert W. Smith)

Developing Band – publisher grades 1.5-2.5
– 2nd-year players to advanced middle school bands
– Includes: Ancient Voices (Michael Sweeney), Creed (William Himes), Entrance of the Tall Ships (James Swearingen), and The Red Balloon (Anne McGinty)

Concert Band Grade 3 – publisher grades 3-3.5
– freshman or secondary high school concert bands, small high school bands
– Includes: Air for Band (Frank Erickson), Kentucky 1800 (Clare Grundman), Nathan Hale Trilogy (James Curnow), and Overture for Winds (Charles Carter)

Concert Band Grade 4 – publisher grades 4-4.5
– advancing high school concert bands/wind ensembles, college or university bands
– Includes: Chorale and Shaker Dance (John Zdechlik), English Folk Song Suite (Ralph Vaughan Williams), First Suite in Eb/Second Suite in F (Gustav Holst), and Scenes from the Louvre (Norman Dello Joio)

Symphonic Band – publisher grades 5-6
– very advanced high school symphonic bands/wind ensembles, college or university bands
– Includes: A Festival Prelude (Alfred Reed), Incantation and Dance (John Barnes Chance), Of Sailors and Whales (W. Francis McBeth), and Prelude, Siciliano, and Rondo (Malcolm Arnold)

Check your library.  If some of these titles are in there, program them; if not, build your library by adding a few each year along with your new music.  I hope you find this helpful, and keep Stanton’s as your go-to resource for music education.

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 and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies.  Besides music, he geeks out on comic books, amusement parks, hockey (especially the Stanley Cup Champion Penguins), and all things Pittsburgh.


His Light In Us 11 September, 2017

recommended by Alissa Ruth, Jen Sper, and Judy H., School Choral Specialists

Kim Andre ArnesenNorwegian composer Kim André Arnesen has gained notoriety over recent years for his choral compositions that boast warm harmonies, well-placed dissonances, and elegant melodies. He was trained at the Music Conservatory in Trondheim, and while he has always loved both Baroque and pop music, choral music stood out as his passion, and he had his first choral concert as a composer at age 18.

Below are some of Stanton’s recommendations of Arnesen’s pieces. Enjoy!

His Light in UsHis Light in Us
Commissioned by Anton Armstrong for the St. Olaf Choir for St. Olaf’s 2016 Christmas Festival, this work is “a thanksgiving about the gift of a tiny child,” and reflects that “only the nature of love is changeless.” The piece opens with a sweet soprano soli line, then the altos join to create a gentle duet, blossoming into a women’s trio which guides the piece into the men’s entrance, echoing the sweeping melody the sopranos introduced. The piece speaks of renewal, both in the sense of renewal of hope and renewal of spirit.

Cradle HymnCradle Hymn
This sweet, simple melody is set with piano and strings, with a gentle constant eighth-note pattern in the piano keeping the phrase moving forward. The melody itself is almost folk-like in nature, and the harmonies surrounding it gradually build through each verse of the piece. Both the SATB and SSAA are beautiful, but I think that this piece really shines in the women’s voicing.

 

Dormi JesuDormi Jesu
This a cappella Christmas piece offers a beautiful avenue to showcase a pair of sopranos, using a sweet, soaring melodic line and that beautiful simplicity for which Arnesen is known. The choral parts, while using well-placed dissonances, are extremely accessible in terms of solfege, so don’t fear programming this piece for your high school or college group!

 

Even When He is SilentEven When He is Silent
Using the famous text “I believe in the sun even when it’s not shining / I belive in love even when I feel it not / I believe in God even when He is silent,” Arnesen uses his trademark dissonances to create a shimmering effect, swelling to a climax on the phrase “I believe in love.” The timelessness of the text makes this a wonderful programming choice, and the musical structure here provides opportunity to work on elegant phrasing and warmth of tone.

For more information about these pieces and many more, visit our website at stantons.com, email us at choral@stantons.com, or call us at 1.800.42.MUSIC. We are happy to help with all of your sheet music needs!

About the Authors
Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, as well as various choirs in the Columbus area, and she spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.

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.

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.


On with the Snow!! 08 September, 2017

recommended by Jen Sper and Alissa Ruth, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialists

Presenting musicals and programs with your elementary students is a great way to provide performance opportunities for young singers, and to teach valuable performance skills. Try one of these brand new publications with your classes!

leon-510981Arctic Animal Antics by Jill & Michael Gallina
Cool it, friends, and CHILL! It’s time for the annual Snow Ball with a talented group of cold climate friends ready to entertain you. Join hearty polar bears who refuse to take a snooze, good natured arctic terns, hi-falutin’ penguins dressed to the nines and multi-talented seals who are sure to seal the deal! The Singin’ and Swingin’ at the K-2 Chorale Series includes easy-to-stage mini-musicals specifically designed for primary-age students. The all-in-one format features piano/vocal arrangements, scripts with 18 short speaking parts, costumes and staging suggestions and audio access to performance/accompaniment recordings, as well as projectable/printable PDFs of melody sheets, lyric sheets and dialog … all under one cover! Songs include: Out in the Cold, Roly Poly Polar Bears, One Good Tern Deserves Another, The Penguin Ball, Seal the Deal! About 20 minutes. Suggested for grades K-2.

alfred-515598The Great Big Holiday Bake Off by Andy Beck & Brian Fisher
It’s down to the wire and the remaining contestants in our confectionary cooking competition are assigned one final task – fantastic holiday treats! What will it be? Sugar cookies? Hot chocolate? A candy-covered gingerbread house? Minty candy canes? This delicious 30-minute musical delivers all the goodies with scrumptious songs and simple scenes that are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. Two hosts, a pair of judges, six star bakers, and a chorus of any size are just the right recipe for fun. Complete choreography videos are available for every song, from the tasty opening theme to the festive fruitcake finale! Songs include: The Great Big Holiday Bake Off; Sugar Cookie!; My Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Bun; Hot Chocolate!; The Candy Cane Twist, Candy-Covered Gingerbread House; Fruitcake. About 30 minutes. Suggested for grades three and up.

leon-513800Holly Jolly Jukebox by John Jacobson & Roger Emerson
Whoa! It’s spooky in this attic! Quick! Let’s find those holiday decorations and get out of here! Hey! Look at this piece of junk. Yikes! It talks … a TALKING JUKEBOX that lights up and plays music? Join in the fun as Holly Jolly Jukebox spins records from the ‘40s to the ‘70s – back to the good ole days of swing, doo wop, beach music and disco! See how the Jukebox learns that we all have something to share no matter how old or “outdated” we think we are. Songs include: Swingin’ Holiday, Doo Wop December, California Christmas, S-A-N-T-A, Something to Share, Jingle Bell Jam. About 35 minutes. Suggested for grades 4-8.

leon-513797On with the Snow! by John Jacobson & John Higgins
If cold weather makes you shiver to and fro, you’ll love our COOL show about friendship and SNOW! Hep 2 3 4! Hep 2 3 4! Here come the Shovelers, ready to go where shovels have never gone before. And now … a BIG round of applause for the stars of our show – those friendly, furry monsters – the Abominable Snowman, and his buddies Bigfoot and Sasquatch with their high-kicking dance moves! Don’t judge a monster by its fur! Learn how real warmth starts from within and can spread like a blizzard when shared with a song! Songs include: It’s Snowtime!; B-r-r-r! (The Shiver Song); Shoveling; Snow Buddies; A Warm Spot in My Heart. About 25 minutes. Suggested for grades 1-3.

Find more fun winter-time options for your elementary students online, or contact us for more information! 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 good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Alissa Ruth began working at Stanton’s in the summer of 2016. She is a former middle and high school choir director and holds a Bachelor of Music in Education degree from Capital University. She is an active choral singer in the Columbus area, and spends her free time running, doing yoga, cooking, and watching Netflix.


Songs of Protest 06 September, 2017

00198180-wlSongs of Protest is a collection of twenty-six songs in Piano/Vocal/Guitar format, written between 1939 and 2004 to protest war, racial inequality, and to beg for peace. For high school contemporary history classes, this can be useful and thought provoking; for older generations, it is a collection of youthful memories.

People were writing and singing these songs in the face of official opposition (We Shall Overcome). There were songs of mourning and protest against racial prejudice (Strange Fruit). There was so much unrest that some people were very unsure of the outcome (Eve of Destruction). Some songs sounded sweet, yet delivered a poignant message (Where Have All the Flowers Gone?). These songs are well worth revisiting, and many of them still deliver a powerful message for current times.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!


Top Choice Classics for Young String Orchestra 05 September, 2017

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Music Specialist

Many string students realize quickly that their instruments lend themselves extremely well to classical music and they love to play it. Here are three winners of that genre that will not only satisfy their classical cravings, but will provide teaching moments galore, plus wonderfully melodic concert and adjudication repertoire.

wj-3035751-fFinale from Overture #5 by William Boyce/arr. David Giardiniere
We’ve not seen many string orchestra arrangements of Englishman William Boyce’s works, so this one provides a fresh change from the German and Italian Baroque masters. With a harpsichord part for authenticity (substitute an electronic keyboard with a harpsichord setting or a piano at last resort) the lower strings provide the figured bass anchor while the violins soar in close harmony, fitting a school orchestra extremely well. You get to contrast a Con Spirito D major with a Larghetto D minor and work on Baroque rhythms and ornaments for a glorious concert/adjudication addition.

Gavotte from Holberg Suite by Edvard Grieg/arr. Jan Farrar-Royce
Transcribed from the original piano version for string orchestra by the composer himself, this suite is a staple of string ensemble repertoire. Perfectly set for young players, this will become a classic for your library.

master-50250107-fBrandenburg Concerto #5 by J.S. Bach/arr. Lynne Latham
An absolute classic for strings, this version is in C major to avoid forward extensions for viola and cello. There is nothing out of first position except for a simple shift for cello and bass in a brief passage. A solo string quartet section gives the work a truly Baroque feel.

Find more classics for young string players on our website, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742 for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Dan C. has worked at Stanton’s since 1979, primarily with orchestra music and print promotions. A “working” musician, he’s a classical cellist, a rock & jazz bassist and a folk & country guitarist/singer. His free time is spent with family or reading, gardening, cycling and working puzzles. His series of musical puzzles (RP3 Rebus Puzzle Picture People) can be found on the Stanton’s Facebook page each Sunday. He also has a reputation as a pretty good joke teller. Seriously.


New Church Anthems for Fall 2017 04 September, 2017

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

As church choirs start up for the fall and Christmas season, Stanton’s Sacred Choral Music staff has carefully chosen these pieces to be appropriate for a variety of worship styles and services throughout the coming months:

HopeChoralTemplateAgnus Dei (with How Great Thou Art) arr. Joel Raney
This Michael W. Smith “classic” is ideal for any worship occasion and especially communion services reflecting on Jesus, the Lamb of God. The inclusion of a portion of “How Great Thou Art” expands and reinforces this anthem of praise to the Lord God Almighty.

Down to the River to Pray (with Lord, Listen to Your Children) arr. Mary McDonald
Mary McDonald captures the spirit and message of two popular songs that deal with the significance of prayer for the individual believer and the church as a whole. The spiritual, “Down to the River to Pray,” is seamlessly combined with Ken Medema’s “Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying.” Together, they poignantly ask for the Father’s love, the Spirit’s power, and the grace of Jesus to direct the lives of all believers. Choirs will enjoy the flavor of this partnered song with its unhurried rhythmic style and supportive accompaniment.

lorenz-515129I Surrender All to You by Mary McDonald
This accessible SATB anthem combines a familiar Irish melody with a piano accompaniment that highlights the origin of the tune. The four-part choral texture is written with sensitivity to vocal limitations, and careful voice-leading will help choirs successfully execute this piece with minimal rehearsal time.

O God, Our Help in Ages Past arr. Joel Raney
This festive setting of the well-known hymn text incorporates the hymn tunes, ST. ANNE and ST. COLUMBA. The options to add 4-hand piano accompaniment and trumpet heighten the excitement and proclamation of Psalm 90, “our hope for years to come.”

Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him! arr. Lloyd Larson
Based on Psalm 148 and the timeless HYFRYDOL, this robust setting is a joyous anthem of praise. The resounding organ and optional handbells provide an inspirational backdrop, and the optional inclusion of congregation at the conclusion ensures a truly memorable moment in worship.

lorenz-515201Since Jesus Came Into My Heart arr. Larry Shackley
Larry Shackley presents a lively medley that brings together three beloved Gospel songs to celebrate the joy of having Jesus in our hearts. With clever interaction between vocal parts and a rousing rhythm accompaniment, this spirited selection is a delight to sing and hear.

Tune My Heart to Sing Thy Grace arr. Mark Hayes
Mark Hayes’s dynamic setting of this enduring hymn emanates energy from the opening notes to its grand conclusion. The sparkling piano accompaniment, dramatic meter changes, and powerful choral writing all combine to lift this beloved hymn to inspired heights of joy!

bpi-bp2112-fWho But the Lord? by Craig Courtney
An opening tenor/bass chant of an obscure verse of “O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL” sets the stage for this contemplative consideration of Isaiah 58. While perfect for Advent, the encouraging, hopeful nature of the text makes it useful year round.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, visit our website, or contact us at 1.800.426.8742. 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.


Ukulele for All 01 September, 2017

recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

KG15_Ukulele for All by Jenny Peters and Rebecca Bogart is an easy-to-use beginning ukulele method for kids. Students learn to read standard notation, ukulele tablature, and chord symbols. This method book also includes access to Kjos’ Interactive Practice Studio, featuring videos, play-along accompaniments, an online recording studio, tuner/metronome, media downloader, and “My Files,” which accesses saved recordings for playback and sharing! A great resource for classroom use, too, and there is a teacher’s guide available.

Looking for a fun, quick way to learn to play ukulele? Here’s the answer! 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.