News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Clap and Sing, Join Together! 28 September, 2018

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

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

alfred-46934-fCardinal by Andy Beck
Few things compare to the sight of a red cardinal against a backdrop of winter white. This magical seasonal selection by Andy Beck captures the wonder of nature, while offering choral writing well suited to 2-part voices: taking turns with the melody and an easy-to-sing countermelody. Optional sleighbells and mark tree create even more shimmer.

Clap and Sing, Join Together! by Victor C. Johnson
This vibrant celebration in classic A B A form consists of primarily unison writing with some easily taught moments of two part harmony. Arranged in a comfortable range for young voices, this is an ideal concert opener for ensembles of any size!

Little David, Play On Your Harp arr. Andy Beck
A clever arrangement of the traditional spiritual that includes a surprise nod to Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” plus an optional part for autoharp! The pentatonic chorus is great for teaching or reinforcing solfège, while the harmonies are appropriately independent for developing singers. A few new words tell us more about the heroic boy, David. A terrific teaching piece that kids will enjoy!

leon-522806Sing arr. Roger Emerson
“Sing of good things, not bad” is certainly a wonderful mantra for all of us and it is the theme of this iconic Joe Raposo song from “Sesame Street.” With a driving and rhythmic piano accompaniment here is an incredibly creative arrangement of this positive song.

Tell Me What You See by Amy F. Bernon
In this charming original, our curious narrator enlists the help of wildlife friends to discover nature’s gifts. Although a thunderstorm puts an end to the activities for the day, “tomorrow will bring more adventures.” Young singers will be delighted by the catchy, energetic melody and fun lyrics.

For more exciting elementary choral resources, please contact us, and remember – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

First 50 Hymns You Should Play 26 September, 2018

00275199-wlFirst 50 Hymns You Should Play on the Piano is a collection of easy-to-play pieces. Play for your own enjoyment, play for Sunday School or Vacation Bible School! There are patriotic hymns (“America the Beautiful,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic”), Thanksgiving hymns (“Come, Ye Thankful People, Come,” and “We Gather Together”), and Easter hymns (“Wondrous Love,” “Were You There?”). There are plenty more hymns for in between times, also known as “ordinary time.” Chord names are included above the melody line in case you want to improvise a more elaborate accompaniment, and words are included, so you and friends can sing along!

For more about this collection or others like it, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.come, or visit our website, http://www.stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Spooky Choices for Concert Band 25 September, 2018

fjh-b1739-frecommended by Ken Tilger, Band Education Specialist

Dark Ride by Randall D. Standridge, Grade 1.5
A moonlit chase through a darkened forest… A haunted galop-esque character that adds to the thrill… This exciting work features dissonant harmonies, driving percussion, and optional synthesizer to create everything from an organ to voices and an eerie harpsichord. A frighteningly good choice to offer a little something different on your next concert!

The Secret Laboratory by Franklin D. Adams Jr., Grade 1.5
Late one stormy night in a dusty old mansion, a mad scientist is hard at work in his hidden laboratory. The moments tick by as he waits for just the right opportunity to harness the power of the lightning storm…explore the mysteries of “The Secret Laboratory!”

barn-rws-1813-00-fDragon Bones by Brian Bankston, Grade 1.5
Transport your audience to another realm with this exciting musical adventure. A strong heroic melody and a simple syncopated rhythm are used to create this powerful work based on mankind’s fascination with tales of the mythical dragon. It is sure to leave a lasting impression on your students and is full of great teaching opportunities.

Danny Elfman: Music in the Dark arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
The film music of Danny Elfman is often dark and sinister, but always unique and interesting. This entertaining medley for young players includes themes from “Beetlejuice,” “Edward Scissorhands,” “Spider-Man,” and “This is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

alfred-46624-fEscapade at Twilight by Michael Kamuf, Grade 2
This exciting and bold original new work for developing bands contains lyrical themes, dissonant harmonies, and a sinister development section combined to create a musical story of a late night adventure that’s gone…well, a little awry! Perfect as an opening or closing selection, your students will enjoy performing this work…but let’s be careful out there!

The Masque of the Red Death Michael Story, Grade 2
Based on the 1842 Edgar Allan Poe short story of the same name, this musically colorful depiction will engage your students adding cross-curricular significance to reading the story. Those familiar will recognize the clock striking midnight at the masquerade ball. Highly programmatic and compelling!

Midnight Fair by David Bobrowitz, Grade 2.5
It’s midnight, and all the creatures of the night are gathering for some playful mischief. The instrumentation in this imaginative work constantly evolves, suggesting ghostly apparitions sliding in and out of the magic soundscape. There’s fun for all in this delightfully eerie selection!

grandm-gmm411-fWaltzing with Dragons by Gavin Lendt, Grade 2.5
“Waltzing with Dragons” is a medieval fantasy inspired work for band that harkens back to a more ancient era with its use of modal harmonies. The piece attempts to place the listener in the midst of a medieval festival where one may overhear stories of ancient dragons and battles. The composer’s skills are evident as this lilting waltz unfolds, and both your students and audience will be delighted by this piece that is approachable for middle school and beyond.

Dr. Mayhem by Jeremy Bell, Grade 2.5
Chaos! Destruction! Mayhem! What more could an evil genius ask for? “Dr. Mayhem! and his No-good Nefarious Plot to Destroy L.A.” is a rambunctious, fun, and bombastic work for young bands, ripped from the pages of your favorite super-villain comic book! A quirky and entertaining work that will challenge your young musicians, with changing time signatures, variation of styles requiring performers to switch between playing with heavy accents and a more legato feel. The piece is written with varying sections that feature the low brass and woodwinds, and alternate focus between the treble and bass instruments. Guaranteed to spell doom for boredom in band class!

alfred-46634-fThe Mountain arr. Bob Phillips, Grade 3
Great for the holidays like all TSO pieces – yet based on classical music, so also fitting for any pops concert! Based upon “Mars, the Bringer of War” from The Planets by Gustav Holst and “In the Hall of the Mountain King” by Edvard Greig, this energetic setting of beloved favorites will rock your concert. Includes optional electric guitar, electric violin, electric bass, percussion, and piano parts. For a great opener or closer, this piece can be combined with the corresponding string arrangement. A compelling and unique addition to your holiday program or any pops concert.

A Ride Through the Haunted Mansion by Bryce Newton, Grade 3
A fun and creative composition designed to reinforce 6/8 compound meter. Interesting harmonies and an eerie mood will peak the interest and imaginations of your students and audiences alike. A very enjoyable musical experience to enhance the musicianship of your students!

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. His iPod ranges from jazz to classic and alternative rock, symphonies, and classic songs from Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. His interests include comic books, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, football and hockey (especially the Steelers and Penguins), and all things Pittsburgh.

“Sing We Now of Christmas” 24 September, 2018

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.

leon-526875There Shall a Star (from Christus) by Felix Mendelssohn/arr. John Leavitt
From Felix Mendelssohn’s oratorio Christus, this masterwork adaptation tastefully presents a classical work for church and academic choirs. This chorus is from one of Mendelssohn’s final works which was never completed. The rolling triplet accompaniment pushes the composition forward with wave-like arches, supporting the choir in all of its sonorous glory. A smooth contrapuntal style contrasts with dramatic accents and powerful crescendos, displaying the confident scripture-based text with appropriate excitement! John Leavitt has provided a new piano accompaniment as well as a new sparkling orchestration that supports the work while staying faithful to the Mendelssohn original.

Sing We Now of Christmas arr. Lloyd Larson
This dynamic setting features the French carol NOEL NOUVLET and the familiar words “Sing we now of Christmas, sing we now Noel,” which lead beautifully into a refrain of “What Child Is This.” Culled from Lloyd’s top-selling cantata, Were You There on That Christmas Night code no. 8611.

alfred-47215-fO Child of the Nations arr. Howard Helvey
A Sacred Harp gem has been newly adapted and arranged by Howard Helvey with his own new Advent text. The result is an a cappella anthem of rare beauty and sensitivity. The hymnic nature of the anthem makes it easy to learn, but no less effective in its presentation.

Sans Day Carol arr. Joseph M. Martin
A gently beautiful text and tune well-known by many has been given a moving and beautiful new setting. From its delicate beginning, this anthem soon soars. The text covers the story of Christ poetically from cradle to the cross, making it a perfect choice as a Christmas communion anthem.

lorenz-525776Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing by Patti Drennan
Patti Drennan brings us this festive anthem to celebrate the birth of Christ. An energetic and driving 4-hand accompaniment makes it a stunning selection for the Christmas season.

Child of Peace by Mary McDonald
This original, heartfelt song seamlessly weaves Dona Nobis Pacem, contemplating the peace that Christ brings at Christmas and always. The cherished carol Silent Night is included in the climax of the piece, which also offers optional congregational involvement. Beautiful!

A Christmas Lullaby arr. Mark Hayes
Mark Hayes seamlessly blends two timeless cradle songs to create the quintessential Christmas lullaby suitable for concert or worship venues. It is a tender and moving reminder of the beautiful Christmas story.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, visit our newly redesigned 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.

Get “Fired Up!” 21 September, 2018

hope-527691recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Fired Up! by Allen Pote & Tom S. Long
A lighthearted re-telling of the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, this new musical for young voices includes all the elements we’ve come to expect from Tom and Allen: well-crafted accessible songs, clever humor, and a solid biblical message, in this case: we follow a loving God worthy of trust – regardless of the circumstances.

More 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.

Creative Programming: Singing in Unison 19 September, 2018

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

As choir directors, it can be easy to focus on programming repertoire with more and more voice parts (4 part divisi! 8 part divisi!! And more!!!), and mentally associating “more parts” with “more difficult,” and a “more accomplished” ensemble.

But choral directors also know how very challenging singing in unison can be! Programming unison music on your concert – at the middle school, high school, or even collegiate level – can provide your audience with a unique insight into the choral art, and how your ensemble builds skills that lead up to your “final product.” Here are a few suggestions for unison music-making with your ensembles:

leon-08743259-fThe King’s Singers Book of Rounds, Canons and Partsongs
This delightful collection of 99 rounds, canons and partsongs makes a delightful introduction to part-singing to kids from 6 to 106! The selections are arranged by categories including English Pre-1700 (Secular), Pre-1700 (Sacred), Post 1700, From Around the World and Wordless Rounds. Start in unison, and build part-singing and listening skills from there!

cfn-bl1017-fFirst Songs for the Emerging Tenor-Bass Choir by Mark Patterson
Written and arranged to meet the challenges of finding quality repertoire for emerging unchanged male singers, Mark Patterson hits the mark with this set of three songs. “First Songs for the Emerging Tenor-Bass Choir” offers directors a wide variety teachable material and is a staple for any middle school choral library.

Laudamus Te (from Mass in C Minor) by W.A. Mozart/arr. Melissa Malvar-Keylock & Jill Friedersdorf
Unison treble choirs can experience the beauty and elegance of this movement from the Mozart Mass in C Minor and gain appreciation for music of the Classical era. The flute obbligato adds to the authenticity.

Consider vocal solo literature as well! Perhaps highlight each voice part’s individual color with a selection for each section: “The Lass with the Delicate Air” for sopranos, “Witness” for altos/mezzos, “Ride On King Jesus” for tenors, and “The Vagabond” for baritones/basses! This is great for developing your singers’ listening skills.

Brainstorm more ideas with Stanton’s by calling us at 1.800.42.MUSIC, or contacting us by email at choral@stantons.com. And remember – shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Solo: A Star Wars Story 17 September, 2018

00280822-wlThere are two new collections for the soundtrack of the movie, “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” The music was composed by John Williams and John Powell. One collection is for intermediate to advanced piano solo, the other is for easy piano. Both have the music to nine of the pieces from the soundtrack – “Chicken in the Pot,” “Corellia Chase,” “The Good Guy,” “Lando’s Closet,” “Meet Han,” “Mine Mission,” “Savareen Stand-Off,” and “Train Heist.”

Play the music and follow the adventures of young Han Solo on his way to fulfilling his Star Wars destiny!

For more information about this music, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website, http://www.stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

The Glory of Christmas 14 September, 2018

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:

lorenz-525579The Glory of Christmas by Lloyd Larson
The glory of Christmas comes to life in this inspiring musical by Lloyd Larson. Through a blend of familiar carols and original songs, choirs and congregations alike will experience the beauty of the incarnation story as if they re experiencing it for the first time. This versatile work may be presented in multiple segments over the Sundays of Advent or as a single presentation, and will be equally effective with piano accompaniment or the full orchestra option (live instruments or accompaniment track). The script for two narrators is scripturally based and seamlessly weaves in and out of the music to provide an inspiring worship experience. Opportunities for the congregation to sing familiar carols as well as the availability of both SATB and SAB editions ensure that this resource is suitable for choirs large or small.

A Midnight Clear by John Leavitt
“A Midnight Clear” is a joyful collection of carols that beautifully and elegantly portray the Christmas story. Stylistic variety abounds, and the optional Chamber Orchestration will provide additional layers of texture and color to the work. Selections can be presented individually or as part of a full-length cantata, making this book an excellent choice for “Lessons and Carols” services or for concert presentations.

mornin-msm70-110-fA Carol Suite by Hal H. Hopson
A four movement suite of traditional carols arranged by Hal Hopson, this includes Once in Royal David’s City; Sing We Now of Christmas; Still, Still, Still and Angels We Have Heard on High. It will be a sure-fire success whether you use just piano or the chamber orchestra version. Beautifully crafted for choirs in all venues for Christmas.

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.

Sight Reading Success 13 September, 2018

leon-504286recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Sight Reading Success by Stan McGill & Morris Stevens
This choral sight reading resource is designed to help secondary choir students improve their music literacy. There are several sight reading systems that may be used: moveable do solfege, fixed do solfege, numbers and perhaps others. This book covers about five months of teaching, containing 180 SATB exercises in various keys and time signatures:
Month 1: Three 2 measure exercises daily (60 exercises)
Month 2: Three 4 measure exercises daily (60 exercises)
Month 3: One 8 measure exercise daily (20 exercises)
Month 4: One 16 measure exercise daily (20 exercises)
Month 5: One 32 measure exercise daily (20 exercises)

Helpful hints are included throughout, compiled from over sixty years of successful secondary choral teaching by the authors. With daily use, your choir will improve interval recognition by sound and sight; rhythmic and metric skills; choral balance and blend; independent, sectional, and choral literacy skills; dynamic and articulation recognition and implementation; altered pitches; major/minor key modulations; and consonant and dissonant choral chords. Also available for SSA choirs and SA (2-part treble) choirs.

Find more valuable sight reading material on our website, or contact us for more recommendations. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Kaleidoscope by Denese Odegaard 12 September, 2018

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

alfred-46740-fKaleidoscope by Denese Odegaard
Alfred Music proudly teams up with the National Association for Music Education on this impressive manual of model lessons by master music teachers from around the country. The lesson plans, which are based on and interpreted through the 2014 National Music Standards Artistic Processes of Creating, Performing, Responding, and Connecting, have been contributed by music educators from around the country and world.

Anchor Standards
Creating
1. Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
2. Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
3. Refine and complete artistic work.
Performing
4. Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation.
5. Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.
6. Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.
Responding
7. Perceive and analyze artistic work.
8. Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
9. Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

Includes step-by-step procedures, reproducible templates, related manipulatives, assessment tools, an array of traditional songs, and more! Royalties donated to NAfME. Recommended for grades kindergarten through seven.

Find more valuable curriculum resources on our website, or contact us for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Trap Style Drumming 11 September, 2018

00281632-wlTrap Style Drumming for the Acoustic and Hybrid Drum Set is the first ever instructional book on how to play Trap style beats. This book is a must-have for drummers looking for an introduction into the world of Trap style drum beats and for those drummers who would like to explore new rhythms and technically challenging ways of playing the drum set.

“Trap Style Drumming for the Acoustic and Hybrid Drum Set” provides a plethora of exercises and acoustic and hybrid sound applications that will guide you towards achieving the right feel, vibe, and sound of these deceptively complex Trap rhythms. The culmination of four years of research, trial and error, and experimentation into the most concise and comprehensive learning tool for Trap style drumming currently available, you will learn how to sound just like an 808 drum machine on an acoustic and hybrid drum set!

For more information about this book, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website, http://www.stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Fresh and Spooky Music for Orchestra 10 September, 2018

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Specialist

Many orchestras seem to have a late October concert, so why not take advantage of the timing and program some great spine-tingling tunes to add some excitement – or better yet, do a whole Halloween theme concert and program them all! Spanning Grade 1.5 to 4, spooky special string effects such as col legno, sul ponticello tremolo and harmonic glissandi will add teaching opportunities, and each of these titles offers parts for everyone to help join in the creepiness. And you know your students and their audience will love them!

cfn-fas111-fIncursion by Sean O’Loughlin, Grade 1.5
Lots of teaching elements and a chilling concert highlight all in one! With a harmonic moment reminiscent of Led Zeppelin’s Kashmir, you can teach musical concepts such as col legno, offbeats, Grand Pause and ground bass and end up with a dramatic and hair-raising piece for your middle-schoolers that is destined to become a tradition at your late October concerts around Halloween. Kids that age love things chilling and macabre, so they will glom onto Incursion with relish.

Dark Dreams by Sean O’Loughlin, Grade 2
Leave it to the super creative Sean O’Loughlin to spice up your October concert with great special effects in this mysterious and eerie selection that will keep your players on their toes and your audience on the edge of their seats! Sul ponticello tremolo, trills, pizzicato, staccato sfortzandos, accents, and offbeat melodies make great teaching moments plus you’ll have a top-notch, moody addition to your repertoire.

fjh-st6446-fThe Haunted Ballroom by Chris Thomas, Grade 3.5
It seems as if many school orchestras have concerts toward the end of October, so they are always in the market for new Halloween repertoire. Here is a winner that should be included in your library for such occasions. Marked to be played “Ghostly and refined,” it is a spooky waltz, accentuated by effectively eerie glissandi on harmonics. It is also rife with staccato bowing, tremolos, dynamic extremes, col legno, and just enough chromaticism (with helpful fingerings) to make your teeth turn sideways. It will make a great, colorful addition to your late Autumn/Halloween concert.

leon-04492165-fWitch’s Fiddle by Robert Buckley, Grade 3-4
If you only buy one piece for your high schoolers this year, make it this one, especially if you have a concert around the end of October. Loaded with spine-chilling special effects such as glissandi on harmonics, short, fingered glissandi, snap pizzicato, and sul ponticello tremolo as well as jarring harmonies and off-kilter rhythms to spice up the Munsters-like melody, this will be the piece your audience will be talking about at the end of the concert – and that your students will want to play year after year. Do not miss it!

Contact us for more spooooooky recommendations, or browse our newly redesigned website at stantons.com!

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.

It’s a “Karaoke Christmas!” 07 September, 2018

alfred-46827-frecommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

Karaoke Christmas arr. Andy Beck, Alan Billingsley, Tom Fettke, Thomas Grassi, Greg Gilpin, Mark Hayes, Larry Shackley, and Kirby Shaw
Check out this amazing list of holiday pops presented in kickin’ arrangements, spot-on for young singers! This is a ready-to-go program for choral concerts, a collection of cool Christmas songs to choose from year after year, or a fun-filled musical when you incorporate the optional script (including roles for a popular principal, a dynamic party DJ, and a flexible number of students with spoken lines). Complete choreography (printed throughout the score) makes staging your show a cinch, and top-notch accompaniment tracks (on the enhanced CD) add a professional touch. Full-color cover art and student PDFs are also included on the CD. Recommended for grades 3-8, 100% reproducible!

Find more fun wintertime musicals for your elementary and middle school students on our website, or contact us for personalized recommendations. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Sebastian Currier, Contemporary Composer 05 September, 2018

48024371Sebastian Currier was born in 1959 into a family of talented musicians. One of his brothers, Nathan, is also a composer. Sebastian primarily composes for chamber groups and orchestras, and he has won several awards for his works.

This work, “Glow” for solo piano, was written in 2012 for pianist Inon Barnatan, who wanted a new composition to play on the same concert as Ravel’s “Gaspard de la Nuit.” Since “Gaspard de la Nuit” (“Treasurer” or “Jewel Keeper of the Night”) has to do with light, the composer chose seven forms of light to write about: moonlight, a spark, a strobe light, etc. to complement the Ravel work. The pieces are for advanced pianists, and each one depicts the type of light that is its title. This suite would be great recital material, in whole or in part, for a pianist looking for something really new to perform. Especially for those who have an appreciation for contemporary classical music, this is worth the time to explore!

For more information, contact us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website, stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

New Church Anthems for Fall 2018 04 September, 2018

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:

C6157 Hes Always Been Faithful SATBHe’s Always Been Faithful arr. Lloyd Larson
Both accessible and straightforward, here are two settings of Sara Groves’ contemporary reworking of “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” available in both SATB and SAB opt. Two-Part Mixed with piano accompaniment, this is an easily learned piece for traditional and contemporary worship.

Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee by Joan J. Pinkston
A tender new setting of the old favorite with freshened lyrics and just enough references to the original tune to bind the work together. Scored for SATB choir with an optional B-flat clarinet part included. Suitable for a time of contemplation and reflection in any service of worship. Highly recommended!

bpi-bp2142-fO Love That Will Not Let Me Go arr. Ryan Murphy
An arrangement of the Albert L. Peace music by Ryan Murphy. An alternate organ accompaniment and an optional orchestral accompaniment are available.

To God Be the Glory arr. Mary McDonald
This classic hymn text is given a lavish, masterful treatment which opens with a snare drum and a regal horn call before the men begin softly singing. The listener will be transported to new heights with such a commanding arrangement, proclaiming the greatness of God through soaring vocal lines and Ed Hogan’s grandiose orchestration.

lorenz-525807Sinner Saved By Grace arr. Mary McDonald
Mary McDonald s choral setting of a beloved Gaither song retains the powerful truth behind the lyrics that the grace of God is stronger than our failings. While the orchestral accompaniment is impressive and moving, the full piano part provides enough support if you choose to perform with piano only.

All Good Gifts by Joseph M. Martin
This Thanksgiving anthem is a flowing, tender ballad that reminds the listener of all of the treasures of life that “are gifts sent from heaven.” The inclusion of “For the Beauty of the Earth” is another familiar reminder of our gratitude and grateful praise. Easily learned and a great opportunity to sing thanks to the Lord for family, friends, and blessings from above.

O Sing to the Lord a New Song! arr. Lloyd Larson
An exciting anthem of praise based on Psalm 98 and incorporating HYFRYDOL and a Robert Lowry text, scored for SATB choir and keyboard with optional flute and handbells (2 octave). Suitable for any occasion of worship.

leon-526677Come, Come to the Table by Joshua Metzger
Quality communion anthems are a staple in any well-balanced sacred choral library. This charming selection has a refined lilt that dances off the page with assurance and promise. Restrained part-writing and moderation in the accompaniment make this anthem an approachable yet effective choice for Lord’s Supper celebrations.

For more quality suggestions for your church choir, view all of our Five Star Features for Fall 2018 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.