News & Views Monday, March 18, 2024

Valentine’s Day Is Coming Soon! 31 January, 2019

00257807-wlThis third edition of The Big Book of Love Songs really is the “big book!” It contains 82 romantic favorites in many musical styles: “All of Me,” “Bless the Broken Road,” “(They Long to Be) Close to You,” “Endless Love,” “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” “Fields of Gold,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” “Isn’t It Romantic?,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Lady in Red,” “My Heart Will Go On (Love Theme from Titanic),” “The Nearness of You,” “Only You,” “The Power of Love,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Thinking Out Loud,” “Unchained Melody,” “Valentine,” “Wonderful Tonight,” “You Raise Me Up,” and more. If you need a few songs to sing for an event, or if you need a ready supply of love songs for the Valentine’s Day gig, this is just the book for you!

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

On the Lighter Side – for String Orchestra 30 January, 2019

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Specialist

Here is some “dessert” after the “meat and potatoes” of more serious string orchestra literature. The movie music, rock and blues offered here will give your students a nice break, but still keep them playing – and with pleasure! They can have fun and learn something about the idiosyncrasies of popular music as well. Spanning Grade 2 to 4, there is something for everyone.

leon-527964Remember Me (from Coco) arr. James Kazik, Grade 2
With a story of Mexican folklore and with characteristic music, here is a terrific setting of the main song, as Pixar Studios strikes gold again with their imaginative and original animated film Coco. The opening is in a lyric, ballad style, and then shifts to a faster tempo with a mariachi flavor.
TEACH • keeping melody out front • accidentals • pop rhythms
ORCHESTRATION • short violin solo, add piano & Latin percussion
PERFORMANCE • sweet song that movie goers and all will enjoy

leon-04492258-fMusic from Coco arr. Larry Moore, Grade 3-4
With four powerful new songs from the Pixar hit film, Larry Moore’s medley captures the rich heritage and cultural flavor of Mexican folk music, heard throughout the movie’s soundtrack. Includes Remember Me, Un Poco Loco, Lsa Llorona, Proud Corazon.
TEACH • Latin feel • watch the conductor • key and time changes
ORCHESTRATION • melody shared, can add piano & drumset
PERFORMANCE • folks will be smiling and tapping their toes

leon-527957Highlights from The Greatest Showman arr. James Kazik, Grade 3-4
The music from this blockbuster film has captured the imagination of the entertainment world, including countless awards and nominations. From the songwriting team who brought us Dear Evan Hansen and La La Land, the movie musical The Greatest Showman is based on the true story of P.T. Barnum with Hugh Jackman in the title role. Includes The Greatest Show, A Million Dreams, Never Enough, This Is Me and Tightrope.
TEACH • transitions • syncopation • accidentals • key/time changes
ORCHESTRATION • short cello solo, add piano & percussion
PERFORMANCE • movie medleys are always crowd favorites

leon-04492064-fFinn McCool by Robert Buckley, Easy
Over the past several decades, when writers attempt to write a fairly easy blues tune for string orchestra, it pretty much falls flat. Robert Buckley has changed all that! Man, what a great groove! Finn McCool is the coolest! Keeping an almost constant eighth note pulse in one part or another, he liberally passes around melodic material, then begins to layer the themes, with lots of “blue” notes (dominant sevenths) in a modified blues form, which is a music lesson in and of itself. Add dynamics, accents and staccatos for authenticity and everyone involved will have a guaranteed blast.

fjh-ST6447-fGrand Central by Rick Hirsch, Grade 3
With the popularity of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and other rock-oriented string groups, Grand Central is a real approachable number for better middle school and high school string players who want to get involved in the pop style, but may not quite have the “chops” for some of the tougher pieces. Calling for some “serious gusto,” you will instill your students with a driving sense of time and rhythm with this bluesy groover, bringing out accents with clear articulations and figuring out the syncopated rhythmic patterns. There is also an improvisation section, with the D Mixolydian scale provided upon which to base your students’ creative spontaneity. There are also suggestions on how to help students gain vocabulary and comfort level in playing “off the script” of the written music. To help propel the music along, add the optional drumset or orchestral percussion and have a blast with this bustling, energetic urban jazz/rocker.

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.

Show Choir: Dance, Dance, Dance! 28 January, 2019

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Get ready to dance, dance, dance with your show choir this spring!

leon-523940Can’t Stop Dancin’ arr. Mac Huff, SATB with piano (optional combo)
This 1977 pop hit by Captain & Tennille is just as hot today as it was then. Driving rhythms, infectious lyrics and our unquenchable need to dance make this new arrangement a great show choir staple.

Don’t Stop Me Now arr. Mark Brymer, SATB with piano (optional combo)
We’re havin’ a good time! The classic rock harmonies that are a signature of Queen’s sound are a natural fit for this driving choral arrangement. The over-the-top lyrics are dynamic sections make this offering a great opener to any pops concert.

alfred-47114-fGet Up, Get Down, Get Funky, Get Loose arr. Eric Van Cleave, SATB with piano (optional combo)
Bring back the sound of the ’70s with Teddy Pendergrass’s popular party anthem. Guaranteed to bring the house down with or without a few disco moves, platform shoes, and costume wigs – sure to put the “fun” in funky!

Friend Like Me (from Aladdin) arr. Mac Huff, 2-part with piano
From the animated Disney film “Aladdin” and later as the Act 1 closer for the Broadway musical. This song sung by the Genie brings down the house wherever and whenever it is sung. Utilizing a 1930’s swing style and catchy lyrics this is a sure fire closer. Perfect for middle school groups!

leon-524103Girls Just Wanna Dance (Medley) arr. Paul Langford, SSA with piano (optional rhythm)
Two #1 hits from Whitney Houston and Cyndi Lauper are created into one hot dance mash-up for 2018! Your women’s groups will love performing “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” A performance knock-out that begs for staging and choreography!

Contact us for more recommendations, 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.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

Motown Anthology 25 January, 2019

00310367-wlMotown Anthology for Piano/Vocal/Guitar
A must-have collection of 68 Motown masterpieces, including: “ABC,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” “Baby Love,” “Dancing in the Street,” “Easy,” “For Once in My Life,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch),” “Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me),” “Let’s Get It On,” “My Girl,” “Shop Around,” “War,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and many more! This is quite the collection of standard favorite Motown songs!

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

Hamilton: Choral Update 23 January, 2019

The blockbuster musical “Hamilton” makes its debut in Puerto Rico this month with a three-week engagement starring creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. With two US tours currently underway, as well as extended runs in Chicago, London, and San Francisco (opening in February), “how lucky we are to be alive right now!”

Newly available for choirs:

The Schuyler Sisters arr. Alan Billingsley
Lin-Manuel Miranda calls this song “a love letter to New York that lets us know who the Schuyler sisters are outside the context of Hamilton.” Through an innovative combination of rap, patter singing, character-driven musical themes, and a supporting chorus, we are introduced to three outstanding women from the Revolutionary War era. Alan Billingsley’s supercharged arrangement sounds just like the original Broadway score, with stylized solos (both spoken and sung) and plenty of satisfying choral sonorities and riffs. “Work!”

You’ll Be Back arr. Lisa DeSpain
King George laments England’s “breakup” with a young America in one of the most charismatic and surprising numbers from smash Broadway hit Hamilton. Fans note that this song is a departure from the mostly hip-hop and R&B style of the score, taking its inspiration more from breezy Britpop tunes. Lisa DeSpain’s choral arrangement preserves the playful, coy spirit of the original, with its infectious “Da da da dat da” chorus. Not to be missed!

Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story arr. Andy Beck
This simple, yet deep question frames the legacy of Alexander Hamilton as being the one thing out of his control. While we all desire to be remembered for certain things, history may tell a different story. Reflective and moving!

Hamilton (Choral Medley) arr. Lisa DeSpain
Straight from the Broadway stage to your rehearsal room, this fantastic nine-minute medley from the Tony Award winning musical is sure to make a big impression! Featuring seven of the show’s most memorable numbers, there’s no shortage of solo opportunities, allowing you to feature some of your strongest performers. Includes: “Alexander Hamilton,” “My Shot,” “The Schuyler Sisters,” “The Room Where It Happens,” “Helpless,” and “The Battle of Yorktown.”

Intimidated by the intricacies of performing the full medley? Check out arranger Lisa DeSpain’s post Hamilton Hacks: Simplifying the Choral Medley for Your Singers – you’ll find lots of great ideas for tailoring the medley to fit your ensemble!

Find more from “Hamilton” on our website, including the original Piano/Vocal folio and the incredibly creative Hamilton Mixtape folio, or contact us for more details. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

The Wonder of Music 21 January, 2019

leon-524852recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

The Wonder of Music by John Jacobson & Lynn Brinckmeyer
Suggested for Grades 2-6
Performance time: about 30 minutes
Who are the very best advocates for your school’s music programs? The kids! Advocacy is a continuous process of diligent education to bring awareness about the benefits of music learning to the general public. And, kids can expertly share the joy of music making and learning in a variety of different ways.

The authors worked together to develop a musical revue about the wonder of music. Each of the seven original songs can be performed together as a complete program, or they can be sung in other contexts as well. The 30-minute revue includes piano/vocal arrangements with choreography and short narrations for up to 65 speaking parts. Songs include: “Music Is an Everyday Thing,” “Many Things I Learned I Learned Through Music,” “Playing Music Is Hard Work,” “A Song in My Heart,” “Working Together,” “If I Didn’t Have Music,” “Our Place in the Choir.”

In addition to a musical revue, the second half of the book is focused on strategies, ideas and conversations about the importance of music study in children’s and adolescents’ lives. There are even writing and advocacy activities to engage students in the promotion of the critical role that music plays in their lives. The ten chapters concentrate on attributes of music education and how children benefit from music study highlighted in the Broader Minded Campaign put forth by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME): Decision Making, Grit, Multiple Ways of Knowing, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, Emotional Awareness, Reflective Learning, and Process Orientation.

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.

Jazz Ensemble Trumpet Features 18 January, 2019

alfred-jlc9907-frecommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

Portrait of Louis Armstrong by Duke Ellington, Grade 5
Jazz at Lincoln Center Library is an exciting project under the artistic direction of Wynton Marsalis that is dedicated to the preservation of the jazz style and designed to honor the greats of jazz history. The Duke Ellington charts are all exact transcriptions as recorded by Duke Ellington and His Orchestra, and they are all medium to medium-advanced in difficulty.

Chops, Don’t Fail Me Now! by Domonic Spera, Grade 3
This timeless funk-jazz chart with will romp with the best of them. A wonderful great choice for mid-level bands that will get the house swingin’. Utilizing one of the favorite standard chord patterns in jazz.

alfred-40349-fBackrow Politics by Gordon Goodwin/arr. Peter Blair, Grade 2
A trumpet section feature with a straight-eighth groove. This chart was adapted for young players from Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band chart and it sizzles, yet is accessible. Available written trumpet solos for all four parts and the 1st trumpet range to written G on top of the staff. An exciting chart for sure!

Gravy Waltz by Ray Brown/arr. Willis Maiden, Grade 5
This chart is a blast! It is one of the more popular charts from Maynard’s Birdland Dream Band. It is a high-energy chart which features baritone sax, as well as trumpet. You need a lot of horses in the trumpet section for this one, but it is well worth it. 5-4-4-4 (or use original instrumentation only)

Mister Nice Guy by Larry Neeck, Grade 2.5
A eloquent ballad written in tribute to Henry Mancini featuring a Trumpet or Flugelhorn solo. Perfect for developing bands, and excellent for contest or concert. Very highly recommended!

kendor-61770-fTrumpets Forever by Jeff Jarvis, Grade 3.5
Given the widespread popularity of Jeff Jarvis’ “Critical Mass,” “Honk,” and “Slingshot,” you’re going to love his latest funk original for advancing groups. A solid, catchy funk groove coupled with a rich chord progression gives it plenty of audience appeal. Solos are offered to 2nd and 4th Trumpets. Each set also includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson, and rhythm section parts are partially notated with chords cued.

In a Sentimental Mood by Duke Ellington/arr. Mark Taylor, Grade 3
No one handles Ellington for younger ensembles better than Mark Taylor, and this well-crafted arrangement shows why. Although Mark uses a written trumpet solo on the bridge, the main theme is handled by the full ensemble playing primarily tutti rhythms. Included are solos for trumpet and tenor (written or ad lib) then a brief double time swing section featuring the entire ensemble. We think the Duke himself would have liked this one.

barn-032-4427-00-fFree Range Trumpets by Howard Rowe, Grade 3
Trumpets love to shine, so bring them out front and turn them loose on this hot trumpet section feature. A cleverly written call and response introduces each soloist and the open solo section gives your superstars another opportunity to grab the spotlight. The audience will not be able to contain themselves as the chart builds to a powerhouse finish. Playable with reduced instrumentation. An important addition to your library!

Concerto for Cootie by Duke Ellington/arr. David Berger, Grade 3.5
Duke Ellington wrote ”Concerto for Cootie,” which when lyrics were added became “Do Nothing till You Hear from Me.”

About the Author:
Ben Huntoon is the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music. He received bachelors and masters degrees in music from Capital University and The Ohio State University respectively. As a professional trumpeter, Ben is accomplished in a wide variety of genres and has performed throughout the Midwest on many stages over the past 30 years. He also teaches trumpet, coaches brass ensembles and has served on the jazz faculty at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio.

Top Hits of 2018 17 January, 2019

18 of the best from ’18 are included in the new collection Top Hits of 2018 for piano, voice and guitar. Includes: “Back to You” by Selena Gomez, “Boo’d Up” by Ella Mai, “Call Out My Name” by The Weeknd, “Delicate” by Taylor Swift, “Heaven” by Kane Brown, “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes, “Let You Down” by NF, “Meant to Be” by Bebe Rexha featuring Florida Georgia Line, “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey, “Never Be the Same” by Camila Cabello, “New Rules” by Dua Lipa, “No Tears Left to Cry” by Ariana Grande, and more. Also available in editions for easy piano, big note piano, guitar, and ukulele (contents vary).

For more information about this collection, 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!

“It Is Finished”: Cantatas for Lent & Easter 2019 16 January, 2019

alfred-47785-frecommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

It Is Finished: A Tenebrae Service by Mary McDonald
For Holy Week or Good Friday, “It Is Finished” is a unique, powerful, and compelling Tenebrae service from the always uncommonly creative Mary McDonald. At 30 minutes in length, it is easily prepared and will serve perfectly as a centerpiece for any Holy Week service. Or, perform the anthems separately during Lent and Holy Week. The optional chamber orchestration is elegant, yet practical. Optional PowerPoint files with inspiring images for projection during the service will add a moving visual element. Titles include “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross;” “I Am Light, I Am Life, I Am Love;” “As You Will, It Will Be;” “It Is Finished,” and more.

lorenz-531046Calvary’s Love by Lloyd Larson & Jay Rouse
In “Calvary’s Love,” Lloyd Larson and Jay Rouse offer an inspiring reminder of the gifts of love and life that are ours because of the price Jesus paid at Calvary. Flexibly conceived for Lent, Holy Week, or Eastertide programming, it may be performed as a whole, or each individual anthem may be presented during the weeks leading up to Easter, depending on your programming needs. Small and large choirs alike will find the choral writing appealing and versatile, and accompaniment options range from piano only to Ed Hogan’s powerful orchestration. Choirs and congregations will be encouraged by this musical telling of the timeless message of God’s sacrifice and love through Jesus. “Greater love has no one than this: that one lay down His life for His friends.”

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 Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church and sings in the First Church Choir at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.

NEW for High School Jazz Ensemble 14 January, 2019

alfred-47031-frecommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

Goodbye Pork Pie Hat by Charles Mingus/arr. Alan Baylock, Grade 3.5
The sonic landscape of this tenor ballad on a classic Mingus tune is free and soulful. The solo tenor provides an introduction, followed by the lush ensemble with a suggested written tenor solo. Lead trumpet range is to written B-flat with optional parts to include flute and vibes. This superb chart belongs in every library.

Running with Scissors by Gordon Goodwin, Grade 3.5
A very hip, funky groove chart played around 168 BPM and loaded with the classic Goodwin flair. Plus, sample solos are provided for C instruments, E-flat alto/bari, B-flat tenor, B-flat trumpet, and trombone. Lead trumpet range is to written high C with optional D. The instrumentation incorporates an auxiliary percussion part and optional instruments including flute and vibes. The band and the audience will totally enjoy this great chart!

alfred-47030-fSuch Sweet Thunder arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 3.5
This chart swings! A sensational chart that captures the collaboration of Ellington and Strayhorn, played around 130 BPM. Lead trumpet plays to written A with optional high C. Solos written out for trombone, alto, trumpet, and tenor. Great use of plunger mutes for trumpets. Excellent chart in every way!

Big Time by Gregory Yasinitsky, Grade 4
Commissioned by the Northwest Missouri All-District Honor Band, this funky tune for advancing groups features a swinging bass line fused with a half-time, hip hop groove. It includes a fun saxophone soli, written or ad lib solos for tenor and trumpet, and an exciting ensemble section which grows from a whisper to a roar. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set.

kendor-61305-fThe Hip-Hop Bop Stop by Ellen Rowe, Grade 4
A fun piece for advancing groups, this chart alternates between hip-hop and swing styles. Written or ad lib solos are included for alto, trumpet and guitar, and 3rd & 4th Trumpets double on flugelhorn. A guitar chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set.

Heat Index by Matt Morey, Grade 2
Based on the chord changes for the Gershwin standard “Summertime,” this nifty swinger combines the hallmarks of other tunes such as Cantaloupe Island and the Theme from Get Smart TV show to create a hard swinging chart that’s fun for everyone. The melody is carried by the trumpets and alto saxes while the lower voices provide rhythmic support. Written solos for trumpet and alto sax are provided along with the chord changes. A rousing shout chorus builds to the finish. Trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff.

bakjaz-20029-fRiggs! by Paul Baker, Grade 2
This chart is a fun tribute to Regents Professor Emeritus Jim Riggs of the Univerity of North Texas. This chart in the Nestico style captures his personality and sense of humor while providing a focus on the saxophone section. The chart begins in the key of F and modulates to Bb. Written solos are provided for alto sax and trumpet or piano. A swinging shout chorus drives to a restatement of the melody before bringing everything to a close with the ensemble. A great sounding chart for a great saxophonist, teacher, and friend. Trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff.

About the Author:
Ben Huntoon is the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music. He received bachelors and masters degrees in music from Capital University and The Ohio State University respectively. As a professional trumpeter, Ben is accomplished in a wide variety of genres and has performed throughout the Midwest on many stages over the past 30 years. He also teaches trumpet, coaches brass ensembles and has served on the jazz faculty at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio.

Song Collections for the Classroom 11 January, 2019

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

alfred-47173-fAnts in My Pants by Sally K. Albrecht
So creative, so kinesthetic, so cute! It’s simply a blast to sing this baker’s dozen of unison animal songs designed for primary-aged singers. Each of the whimsical, kid-inspired tunes tips the hat to a favorite creature and their inherent actions. Helpful movement suggestions offer specific staging ideas as well as clever classroom activities to encourage participation. Giggles are guaranteed as your littlest musicians “Wiggle Like a Worm,” “Swim Like an Otter,” spin their very own spider web, and more. Perfect for in-class exploration and on-stage entertainment! Recommend for Grades Pre-K-3.

alfred-46842-fPop Kidz by Andy Beck, Alan Billingsley & Greg Gilpin
Kids love to sing popular music, but finding appropriate choices can be challenging. Until now! This stellar songbook features familiar pop tunes selected especially for their uplifting lyrics and empowering themes. The targeted arrangements are just right for young singers, offering no fuss vocal ranges, hip musical hooks, and a few easy-to-sing optional harmonies. Parents, siblings, administrators, and even hard-to-motivate students will enthusiastically engage with this hit parade of contemporary chart toppers! Recommended for Grades 3 and up.

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.

Contemporary R&B Hits 10 January, 2019

00276001-wlR&B music is now mainstream in pop music culture, and the new collection Contemporary R&B Hits pays tribute to two dozen of the best modern hits from the genre in arrangements for piano, voice and guitar. Includes: “All the Stars” by Kendrick Lamar/SZA, “Be Without You” by Mary J. Blige, “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys/Nicki Minaj, “Halo” by Beyoncé, “I Feel It Coming” by The Weeknd, “Location” by Khalid, “Love Me Now” by John Legend, “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna, “Passion Fruit” by Drake, “Redbone” by Childish Gambino, “Rise Up” by Andra Day, “That’s What I Like” by Bruno Mars, and more.

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

Suggestions for Choral Adjudications 2019 09 January, 2019

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

The beginning of 2019 is a perfect opportunity to look back at what your students have learned so far this school year, and to look forward to the new and exciting musical challenges you will present to them in the coming months. As you prepare for your upcoming concerts, festivals, or adjudicated events, we recommend these repertoire choices, carefully chosen from many new and recent publications as the “best of the best!”

for SATB Ensembles
leon-517698Hold On! arr. Brandon A. Boyd, SATB divisi with piano
Although there are a number of fine arrangements of this spiritual, Brandon Boyd’s setting of “Hold On!” for mixed chorus divisi with piano is exceptionally creative yet true to the idiomatic style. The rich harmonic language set against lyrical melodic passages and articulated by syncopated rhythmic elements provides a thrilling opportunity for singers and audience alike.

Music in the Night by Elaine Hagenberg, SSATB with piano
Elaine Hagenberg is one of our country’s most respected writers. The superb craftsmanship of her works once again is seen in this new piece. Scored for 5-part mixed chorus (divisi soprano) and piano on a text of Harriet Prescott Spofford, try the piece in a group reflecting the power of music, for Women’s History Month or American Music Month.

chorgd-cge230-fThe Old Mill by Kenneth Riggs, SATB with piano
Rigg’s intriguing setting of this poignant, reflective poem by Thomas Dunn English features an accompaniment that emulates flowing water and the turning of the mill wheel. The minor mode and 6/8 pulse effectively establish the mood for this haunting piece which will provide a unique contrast for your concert or festival programming needs.

Antiphonal Cantate by Greg Gilpin, SATB with piano
Whether performed on risers, as a processional, or encircling the audience, this celebratory fanfare is the perfect opening number for concert or festival and is appropriate for use throughout the school year. The middle section is in 3/2 and provides an interesting and fun contrast. The text is both in easy Latin and in English, and an optional English text is provided for sacred use.

for Treble Ensembles
mornin-7-0577-fO Clap Your Hands by Stephen Chatman, 3-part treble with piano
“O Clap Your Hands” is a setting of words from Psalm 47 as translated and adapted by the composer. Influenced by jazz and gospel music, this fast, energetic work surges forward with constant syncopation, rich pan-diatonic and chromatic harmony, and repeated melodic lines and text. The bright and challenging piano part, with its added-tone arpeggios and extended registers, highlights and punctuates the vocal lines. Through alternating keys, various homophonic and contrapuntal episodes, and the addition of “tutti” clapping, the work reaches a climactic, resounding ending.

I Will Arise and Go by Shawn Kirchner, SSA with piano or hammered dulcimer
This is an evocative, folk-like setting of Yeats’ poem “The Lake Isle of Innisfree.” The modal vocal writing is both simple and sophisticated and always expressive of the yearning in Yeats’ words.

Awake the Trumpet’s Lofty Sound by G.F. Handel/arr. Russell Robinson, SSA with piano and trumpet
A very energetic and joyful chorus from Handel’s oratorio Samson, “Awake the Trumpet’s Lofty Sound” arranged by Russell Robinson is in an accessible key for SSA choirs. Sure to delight audiences and enhance programming for any concert.

leon-523143Set Me as a Seal by Bruce W. Tippette, SSA with piano
From Song of Solomon comes a cherished text set to rich harmonies for women’s voices. Beginning with a simple and warm piano introduction, unison singing melts into harmonic delight, creating an emotional climax and resolving to a quiet ending stating again “for love is strong as death.”

for Tenor/Bass Ensembles
Down by the Salley Gardens arr. Ben Bram, TTBB a cappella
Ben Bram is the amazing arranger for the Pentatonix. Justin Miller is the hailed director of the Westminster Men’s Chorus – one of the best ever. Justin asked Ben to create a piece for his new series that they could premiere at the ACDA Western Division conference – and now we can offer it to you. Absolutely yummy might be the best way to describe the arrangement. Creative and satisfying would also be appropriate words.

leon-521763Plorate filii Israel by Giacomo Carissimi/arr. Brandon Williams, TTBB a cappella (optional piano)
Here is the beautiful final movement from Giacomo Carissimi’s oratorio Jephte. Originally for SATB choir, soloist, narrator and instruments, here is a new arrangement for men that allows them to explore this important musical style. Along with the Baroque style and the Latin text, this piece also lends itself to teach legato line, imitation and the emotional context of loss and lamentation.

Tuba Mirum by Mark Burrows, TTB with piano
With a lashing, powerful piano accompaniment to impel the equally dramatic traditional text from the Requiem Mass, this commanding musical setting for men, women or mixed chorus is spellbinding indeed. It is an exceptional repertoire choice for concert or festival performances, displaying rich passages from a full-throated forte to a lovely, controlled piano, all while exuding an air of fiery, rhythmic drive and a sense of urgency. A pronunciation guide and translation are included.

cfn-bl1014-fPoor Wayfaring Stranger arr. Christi Jones, TTB with piano
With ostinato-like phrases throughout, Jones’ rhythmic and interesting arrangement of this beloved spiritual will suit the needs of developing tenor-bass choirs of all sizes. Performed with piano accompaniment or a cappella, “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” is sure to please in any concert.

For more recommendations, 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.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

THIS SATURDAY: Sacred Choral Reading Session 08 January, 2019

Lullington_Church_with_spring_flowers_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1103346Attend Stanton’s Sacred Choral Reading Session this Saturday, January 12th 2019, and you’ll be fully prepared for the remainder of your church choir season. We will be featuring the best new choral publications for Lent, Easter and beyond, as chosen by Stanton’s sacred choral staff. This January’s clinic will be held at Livingston United Methodist Church, just a few blocks from our store in downtown Columbus!

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday January 12th, 2019
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Attending this clinic is a fantastic way for you to choose new church anthems for your choir by hearing the music read live. This January’s clinicians will be Stanton’s own Judy Henry and president emeritus Jim Strouse. Please feel free to contact Stanton’s at 1-800-42-MUSIC and speak with a choral staff member for the details of the event. We look forward to seeing you at 8:30 on January 12th for registration, coffee and doughnuts followed by a wonderful morning of singing!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Classical Transcriptions for Mid-to-Upper Level Strings 07 January, 2019

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Specialist

Here are Stanton’s Top Choice Classical Transcriptions for concerts and adjudications for this school year. Every string orchestra section gets interesting parts to play, each title contains all kinds of musical skills to teach and/or reinforce, and every one of them will bring pleasure to the players and the audience. None of these titles have been arranged for string orchestra before, yet it is standard classical repertoire. What a wonderful opportunity to introduce your students to new, top quality music. This is outstanding literature that needs to be experienced!

leon-04492072-fLa Finta Semplice Overture, K. 51 by W.A. Mozart/arr. Jamin Hoffman, Grade 3-4
If you want to introduce your high school players to the magic of Mozart, this would be an ideal tool for that purpose. Wolfy wrote it when he was 12 years old, and while it showed maturity beyond his years, he was still a novice, as your young students are, so it’s a match made in heaven. This is especially true if your first violins are your strongest section, since they get the bulk of the melodic content. Work on spiccato bowing, forte-pianos and the chromatic accidentals to catch the sparkle of the Mozart style.

fjh-ST6443-fSymphony #6, First Movement by Ludwig van Beethoven/arr. Robert D. McCashin, Grade 3.5
Every high school orchestra student needs to experience Beethoven. And what better piece than a movement from one of his famous symphonies? We don’t recall ever seeing an arrangement of the First Movement from Beethoven’s Symphony #6 (“Pastorale”) in recent history. And what a delight! In Beethoven’s words, it evokes “pleasant feelings which awaken…on arriving in the countryside.” The music is peaceful and tranquil, and at the same time spritely and effervescent. In 2/4 with the quarter note = 104-108, it bubbles along like a babbling brook. It is in the key of F, like the original, which shouldn’t tax students at this level. There are accidentals, triplets (and 3 against 2) double stops, staccato vs legato and other techniques typical of the Classical/early Romantic period. Robert McCashin has done an absolutely superb job with this transcription. Do yourself and your students a huge favor and get this masterpiece from the inimitable Ludwig van.

kendor-10088-fNorwegian Dance Opus 35, No. 1 by Edvard Grieg/arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 3
Teach your students the importance of scales (“Why do we have to practice these things?”) because they will be needing fingerings for the natural, harmonic and melodic D Minor scales as well as the A Major scale for G# accidentals. Your second violins get to review the notes on their G string and the violas, their C string, and everyone gets work on chromatic accidentals. Every section gets some action so no one can complain about boring parts, plus the lively tune may bring to mind Grieg’s famous “In the Hall of the Mountain King.” Outstanding concert addition or adjudication option.

grandm-GMMOR210-fDrink to Me Only with Thine Eyes arr. David Bobrowitz, Grade 3
The familiar melody was written in the late 1700s to words playwright Ben Johnson penned in 1616, so there is some history here! But it’s not the same old stuff you may expect. There are jazz harmonies with Neapolitan twists, unexpected rhythmic quirks and a contrasting pizzicato section that will get everyone’s attention. With a key change from C to D and everyone getting a crack at the melody, your students will enjoy playing it and your audience will get a thrill hearing it as well. Don’t miss this one!

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.

Creative Programming: Madrigals 04 January, 2019

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

The educational benefits of programming madrigals in your choral program are many: students gain a new historical perspective, learn to sing unaccompanied in a small ensemble, and are exposed to a different style of literature than in larger choirs. Madrigals are even perfect for your show choir – the part independence, listening skills, and choral balancing are all skills applicable to that repertoire as well!

leon-522803Late In My Rash Accounting by Thomas Weelkes/arr. John Leavitt, SAB a cappella with optional percussion
Excerpted from “The SAB Choir Goes Renaissance,” this single offers simple, homophonic singing through the verse but a wonderful opportunity for your choir to sing Renaissance polyphony through the “Fa la la” section. In keeping with the style of the Renaissance, an optional hand percussion part has been added as a possible enhancement.

leon-523401Pastime with Good Company by King Henry VIII/arr. Steven Rickards, SATB with piano and drum or tambourine
This song, made popular during the Renaissance, celebrates the joys of dancing, singing, and hunting. Detailed performance notes offer suggestions for presenting an authentic and stylistic performance by employing instruments and ostinato percussion lines.

leon-525262The Madrigal Singer arr. John Leavitt, SATB a cappella collection
John Leavitt has established a reputation for carefully selecting important and historic repertoire, editing it in ways to make singers successful all while staying true to the stylistic period. This new collection from John includes “Fair Phyllis I Saw,” “Fa Una Canzona” and “Tant Que Vivray.” Three important and standard pieces in a value priced collection.

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.

NOW AVAILABLE: Mary Poppins Returns 03 January, 2019

leon-00285401-fThe 2018 movie musical sequel to the classic Disney film Mary Poppins Returns features a top-notch team including director Rob Marshall (Chicago), Lin-Manuel Miranda (Hamilton) and music from Hairspray’s award-winning songwriting team of Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman. The Piano/Vocal folio includes new original songs from the soundtrack: “Can You Imagine That,” “A Cover Is Not the Book,” “A Conversation,” “(Underneath the) Lovely London Sky,” “Nowhere to Go But Up,” “The Place Where Lost Things Go,” “The Royal Doulton Music Hall,” “Trip a Little Light Fantastic,” and “Turning Turtle” – plus, eight pages of color artwork from the film!

Place your order today to reserve your copy, or contact us for more information!

20 Songs from 8 Hit Movies! 02 January, 2019

Songs from “A Star Is Born,” “La La Land,” “The Greatest Showman,” and More Movie Musicals
Movie musical lovers will delight in this songbook chock full of top-notch songs from blockbuster movies arranged for piano, voice and guitar!

Includes: “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” and “City of Stars” from La La Land; “Evermore” and “How Does a Moment Last Forever” from Beauty and the Beast; “Fernando,” “Mamma Mia” and “Super Trouper” from Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again; “I Dreamed a Dream” and “Suddenly” from Les Misérables;  “A Million Dreams” and “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman; “On the Steps of the Palace” from Into the Woods; “Tomorrow” from Annie; plus seven songs from the 2018 hit movie A Star Is Born featuring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper: “Always Remember Us This Way,” “I’ll Never Love Again,” “Is That Alright?,” “Look What I Found,” “Maybe It’s Time,” “Music to My Eyes,” and “Shallow.”

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