In Dulci Jubilo Wednesday, October 31, 2018
recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist
Planning a madrigal dinner or feast with your high school choir this year? Maybe you’re just looking for something in a Medieval or Renaissance style for your upcoming concert – here are some great new options!
In Dulci Jubilo arr. Russell Robinson, SATB with piano
Mixed meter, dynamic contrast, whimsical accompaniment and lively vocals create a dance-like arrangement of this traditional carol. The original English text surrounds the few Latin phrases used throughout the work and helps make for easy learning. Mixed choirs will love this as a processional or opening number.
Make We Joy Now In This Fest by Matthew Culloton, SATB a cappella
Matthew Culloton provides a sprightly original setting of this 15th century text which alternates between short English and Latin phrases. SATB a cappella with the basses occasionally dividing at the octave at cadences, and the whole choir divisi in the last two measures.
Gaudete arr. Thomas Juneau, SSAATTBB a cappella with handbells, percussion & clapping
Thomas Juneau’s vocal writing infuses rhythmic intensity with percussion, handbells and clapping in this exciting arrangement of Gaudete, one of most popular late medieval sacred Christmas carols. Appropriate throughout the year, Gaudete offers a multitude of opportunities for choirs to demonstrate both their vocal and dramatic skills.
Christmas Is Coming arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano
A festive setting of the English round that will come together quickly at that busy time of year! A rousing antiphonal treatment (a fanfare) leads into the traditional tune, followed by a newly composed bridge. Later, the unison melody becomes a 2-part, and eventually a 3-part round. A wonderful opener for holiday performances!
Nowell by Drew Collins, SATB a cappella with percussion
This fifteenth century English carol, originally titled “Nowell, Nowell, Dieu vous garde” has been recast in modern form although the ancient feel is still present. Vocal parts may be doubled by wind or string instruments and optional percussion may be played by separate players or by members of the choir.
Shepherds, Run! (Allon, Gay Bergeres) by Guillaume Costeley/arr. Geoffrey Edwards, SSA with optional piano
Dig into this 16th Century choral classic in a dazzling setting for women’s choir. Perform this truly flexible piece with English or French text accompanied or a cappella. A treasured part of traditional repertoire for your December concert!
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.