Clap and Sing, Join Together! Friday, September 28, 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:
Cardinal 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!
Sing 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.