Creative Programming: For Men’s Choir Monday, February 26, 2018
recommended by Jen Sper and Alissa Ruth, School Choral Music Specialists
Mairi’s Wedding arr. Drew Collins
This delightful reel, traditionally sung and played at Scottish weddings, is toe-tappin’ fun! From the opening unison statement until the final chord, men’s ensembles can explore drama and healthy singing.
Rain Music by Victor C. Johnson
“On the dusty earthdrum beats the falling rain. Now a whispered murmer, now a louder strain.” This forward-moving, rhythmically-driven music enhances the dramatic, image-laden text of Kentucky-born poet and playwright Joseph S. Cotter, Jr. Effective unison, two-, three-, and four-part writing throughout and optional parts for rain stick and djembes heighten the musical effect.
Three Polish War Songs arr. Derek Myler
A set of Polish military songs collected by the composer while he lived in Poland for two years among families affected still by the tragedies of war. Expertly arranged for men’s chorus, these songs offer a look into a less-familiar world and bring a sentiment of hope.
Glory (from Selma) arr. Eugene Rogers
Winner of a 2015 Oscar Award, this inspirational song speaks of hope and looks to the future for healing in the midst of great division. Eugene’s “gospel-like” setting offers comfort to the community and motivates individuals to keep working for a better tomorrow. Through the voice of a powerful soloist, male chorus and spoken word artists, the message of unity and hope is left ringing in our ears.
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.