News & Views Friday, April 19, 2024

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

Celebrations and Seasons by Mari Schay
Celebrate seasons, holidays, and special days throughout the year – and teach music fluency at the same time! These creative activities are specially designed for preschoolers and Kindergartners, and each one lists the appropriate standards from the National Association for Music Education and Common Core. The enclosed CD includes demonstration recordings of each song along with reproducible teaching aids you can use in your classroom. Don’t miss these other resources in Mari’s “Busy Bodies, Busy Brains” series – The Music In Me and You, Up Up and Away, and Silly and Serious.

Kitty Alone by John Feierabend
“Kitty Alone” is the latest in series of captivating picture books, each based on a beloved songtale from the great American folk music heritage, and collected by John M. Feierabend. This beautifully illustrated book was conceived by illustrator Mina Echevarria, who suggested setting the song in the Appalachian Mountains and using a bobcat as the title character. Since they are rarely seen in the daytime, Appalachian locals refer to the bobcat as the “woods ghost.” Here the illustrations create the ghostly bobcat in the evening darkness of the forest encountering several delightful friends. Also notice the red thread that appears throughout. Find it in the last picture…was it all just a dream? Like the other picture books in the series, “Kitty Alone” includes a description of the history of the song, the notation of the song, and a link to download the song sung by Jill Trinka at no cost. For more in the series: The Crabfish, The Derby Ram, Father Grumble, The Frog and the Mouse, Jennie Jenkins, Momma Buy Me a China Doll, My Aunt Came Back, The Other Day I Met a Bear, Over in the Meadow, Risseldy Rosseldy, The Tailor and the Mouse, There Was a Man and He Was Mad, and There’s a Hole in the Bucket.

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.

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

FOR HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR
Akekho Ofano No Jesu arr. Daniel Jackson, SATB divisi a cappella with improvised percussion
“Akekho Ofana No Jesu” is an African tradition song sung by congregations across the African continent. Extremely dynamic with solos and improvised percussion. The middle section includes double choir – but the double choir is optional and simply repeats material that has already been sung. Achievable for a wide variety of levels.

Shlof, Mayn Fegele (Sleep, My Child) arr. Ryan Nowlin, SATB with piano
Here is a beautiful lullaby with words by the Russian poet Abraham Goldfaden beautifully arranged for the concert choir. Sweeping vocal lines, a lush piano accompaniment and shifting harmonies make this a perfect ballad in any program.

Arirang arr. Hyo-Won Woo, SATB with piano & Korean percussion
“Arirang,” the beloved Korean song, has been set by one of Korea’s best contemporary composers. This arrangement begins with beautiful and flowing vocal and piano lines, then opens up into an exciting rhythmic ending with Korean percussion. A great addition to any program.

FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL CHOIR
De Prosa com o Passarim (Grandma’s Chat) by Daisy Fragoso, 2-part treble with piano, flute & optional pandeiro
Here is a whimsical song of a grandmother who can talk to the birds. Using a popular Brazilian rhythm called “chorinho” and singing in Portuguese – along with some nonsense words between the grandmother and the birds – here is a wonderful multicultural song with lots of opportunity to teach rhythm, syncopation, language and geography.

Tumbalalaika arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano & optional clarinet
The title of this Yiddish folk song informs us that a Balalaika will at least be inferred in the music. This wonderfully authentic arrangement does just that. It also includes a clarinet obbligato (included in the back of the octavo) which is a tip of the hat to the Klezmer band. A Yiddish, phonetic and English text are all provided in the music allowing you to perform this work in any combination of Yiddish or English.

Zum Gali Gali arr. Victor C. Johnson, 3-part mixed a cappella with optional hand drums & finger cymbals
When developing choirs delve into this fresh a cappella setting of the Israeli folk song, they can be assured of enjoying a successful rehearsal and performance experience! The only accompanying instruments are hand drums and finger cymbals, which add authentic flavor and texture to this multicultural gem.

FOR TREBLE CHOIR
Cielito Lindo arr. Juan-Tony Guzman, 3-part treble with piano
Here is a well-known song from Mexico. The piano part resembles the layers of the mariachi ensemble which uses violins, trumpets, bass and several types of guitars. This arrangement was commissioned for “a community that sings!” to promote singing folk songs from around the world and by all levels of singers. This arrangement may be sung in unison, or with three equal treble or low voices.

Indodana arr. Michael Barrett, SSAA a cappella
This highly dramatic traditional African song is a true musical gem, presented a cappella at a slower tempo. Arranged by two South African composers, the ethnic flavor is palpable as a small ensemble carries the melody and the lower voices provide the harmonic underlay. Translation and pronunciation notes are provided.

Scarborough Fair arr. Thomas Juneau, 2-part with piano and optional finger cymbals & hand drum
Made popular as both a folk song and a pop song, this 2-part arrangement of the traditional English folk song is a wonderful tool for teaching part singing. The hand drum and finger cymbal parts add to the style and create a wonderful opportunity to teach rhythm reading. The lush piano accompaniment is independent when it can be and supportive when it needs to be.

FOR TENOR/BASS CHOIR
Kye Kye Kule arr. Greg Gilpin, TB a cappella with percussion
With lively African percussion parts and a straightforward, modular, call-and-response style, this authentic folk song arrangement pulls together in a snap. Solo and duet sections also offer opportunities to feature standout singers. A terrific addition to any program!

FOR CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Who Can Sail Without the Wind? arr. Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano & optional violin
“Who can sail without the wind? Who can sail without oars? Who can leave a parting friend without shedding tears?” Beginning in unison and followed by verses of harmonically-driven part singing, this evocative Swedish folk song speaks of enduring relationships and lifelong bonds of friendship.

I Like to Travel! by Brian Tate, 2-part with piano
A fun song with a calypso feel. Engaging young singers in creative ways as they dream of traveling to different places and in different modes – walking, flying, driving, riding. Ideas are included for adding body percussion and Latin percussion. A creative “vehicle” for developing choirs.

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!

If you are tired of trying to pick out music from video games by ear, your struggle is over! The Greatest Video Game Music contains 28 titles from various video games, including: “Sweden” from Minecraft; “Eyes on Me” from Final Fantasy VIII; Theme from Fallout 4; “Baba Yetu” from Civilization; and more. These are arranged for intermediate to advanced piano. Play for yourself or for friends, and have fun with this collection!

For more information about this collection or others like it, 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!

recommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

A Mi Papa by Matt Morey, Grade 2
An easy latin groove based on the chord changes for Horace Silver’s classic “Song For My Father.” The rhythm section sets the tone which is joined by the ensemble. This sets up the unison saxophone melody which is punctuated by the brass. Trumpet and Tenor Sax are the featured soloists and written solos are provided along with chord symbols. Plenty of ensemble backgrounds provide security for the soloist. A long ensemble crescendo begins after the soloists and leads to the shout section and finish. Trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff.

Blues You Can Use by David Springfield, Grade 2
This medium swing original for developing groups is a riff-based blues in the tradition of the Count Basie and Duke Ellington bands. The solo section is playable by any instrument with solo sheets provided in all keys, along with scales to assist students in improvisation. Featuring Kendor Konvertible scoring for 9-17 players, each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson and optional flute, clarinet, horn in f, tuba and vibes parts.

Beantown Blues Parade by Rick Hirsch, Grade 1
An upbeat New Orleans second-line groove for your young jazz band. Tempo is around 160 BPM, but it is very accessible. Written melodic solos for trumpet 1 (or section) and trombone 1 (or section) with easy brass ranges. A winner!

Gears by Les Sabina, Grade 2
This chart for developing groups combines old school funk and modal rock, along with a bit of blues-tinged melody. The solo section is written out with solo sheets provided in all keys along with scales to assist students in improvisation.

Sign Me Up by Mike Kamuf, Grade 2
An excellent chart by one of the finest writers of Grade 2 level charts. It’s a funky-rock groove at 132 BPM with written-out solos for trombone and alto. Lead trumpet range to written G on top of the staff. A big shout chorus, a stop-time section, and a brief drum solo, too. This chart has all the ingredients for your band to succeed. Optional parts include flute, clarinet, and vibes.

The Golden Striker by John Lewis/arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Formed in 1952, the Modern Jazz Quartet influenced the landscape of contemporary jazz for over 40 years. With elements of classical music blended with cool jazz and blues, “The Golden Striker” epitomizes their elegant brand of jazz. This hard-swinging chart features the unique counterpoint of the original, along with feature spots for the bass, saxes, and an optional open solo section.

Nice ‘n’ Easy arr. Mark Taylor, Grade 3
Recorded by Frank Sinatra on his 1960 hit album by the same name, this tune has become a standard recorded by countless jazz artists. Rather than the swing style of the original, Mark Taylor beautifully crafts this version as a medium tempo bossa. Cast primarily as a duet for trumpet and alto sax, there is skilled scoring for the entire ensemble throughout.

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.

Stanton’s Sheet Music is pleased to announce our 26th annual Excellence in Choral Literature Clinic!

EXCELLENCE IN CHORAL LITERATURE
Saturday 8/24/2019, 9:00 am-12:30 pm
Stanton’s Sheet Music, James E. Strouse Workshop Hall, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
REGISTRATION: $20

This session, led by James Gallagher (Professor Emeritus at The Ohio State University), is designed to help you select concert and contest literature from some of choral music’s most distinguished composers, featuring the best in new music for mixed, treble, and men’s choirs at all levels of difficulty. Your registration fee includes a complimentary packet of over 30 titles.

Come join us to discover beautiful music and share ideas with colleagues and friends!

Registration will open on April 1st. For more information, please contact us by email, or call us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist

The First, We Sing! series by Susan Brumfield offers guidance and direction for teachers who are new to the Kodály approach. Experienced teachers will find fresh ideas to supplement their materials, along with another perspective on Kodály’s philosophy and its implications for teaching today. New in the series this year:

First We Sing: 100 Little Songs and Rhymes by Susan Brumfield
“100 Little Songs and Rhymes” is a companion volume to Teaching Strategies: Rhythmic and Melodic Elements for Primary Grades. It consists of selections from the indexed K-2 Songlist, and includes the songs and rhymes suggested for preparation, presentation and practice of each element. The songs and rhymes in this “starter set” provide material for readiness skills in Kindergarten, and for reading and writing in Grades 1 and 2. Song melodies are provided along with game directions and activities. This collection also includes digital access to song recordings featuring a “teacher model” as a guide for performing and teaching the songs. Songs include: “Bluebird Bluebird,” “Button You Must Wander,” “The Closet Key,” “Engine Engine Number Nine,” “Great Big House in New Orleans,” “Hot Cross Buns,” “Ickle Ockle,” “Johnny Works with One Hammer,” “Los Pollitos,” “Oliver Twist,” and MANY more! Suggested for Grades K-2.

Find more information about this valuable series in our previous post, or contact us for detailed assistance. 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.

Peaceful Piano Solos is a collection of 30 piano pieces from movies and the New Age tradition, with music from Yanni, Ludovico Einaudi, Yiruma, Enya, Philip Glass, Max Richter, and more. These pieces are on an intermediate to advanced difficulty level. Songs include: American Beauty Theme (Thomas Newman); Big My Secret (from “The Piano”) (Michael Nyman); Cinema Paradiso Love Theme (Ennio Morricone); Dawn (from “Pride & Prejudice”) (Dario Marianelli); Fly (Ludovico Einaudi); In the Morning Light (Yanni); Light of the Seven (from “Game of Thrones”) (Ramin Djawadi); Metamorphosis Two (Philip Glass); A Model of the Universe (from “The Theory of Everything”) (Johann Johannsson); River Flows in You (Yiruma); Somewhere in Time Theme (John Barry); Watermark (Enya); Written on the Sky (Max Richter); and more.

These pieces are suitable for a recital, for background music at an event, or to play just for yourself. Some of these selections are hard to find at all, much less in one volume! Relax at the piano with this exceptional collection of satisfying and profoundly beautiful pieces to play.

For more information about this collection or others like it, 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!

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome Jay Rouse for the first time as our clinician for the August Church Choral Music reading session, and we invite you to join us at Overbrook Presbyterian Church (4131 N. High Street, Columbus OH 43214) on Saturday August 10, 2019.

Jay Rouse is one of the premier choral arrangers in Christian music. He has over 350 compositions and arrangements published, including over 30 major sacred choral works, 50 best‑selling a cappella arrangements, a highly recognized hymn series for choir or piano and solo instrument entitled Piano Plus, and a number of best‑selling solo piano books and recordings. Mr. Rouse is a Dove Award winning producer and has logged many hours on the road traveling in the music ministry. He spent over ten years as musical director and accompanist for Sandi Patty.

In addition to his work as a keyboard artist, composer, and arranger he has been the primary producer and conductor for all of the choral and instrumental publications from PraiseGathering Music Group and Gaither Music Company over the last two decades. Jay Rouse continues to make a major impact on music for the church musician across the nation. Along with his wife Amy and two children, Londyn and Thatcher, Jay resides in Anderson, Indiana.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 35 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. We look forward to seeing you on August 10th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Sacred Choral Reading Session
Saturday 8/10/2019, 9:00 am-12:30 pm
Overbrook Presbyterian Church
4131 N. High Street, Columbus OH 43214
Cost: $25.00 (There is no pre-registration; you may register at the door beginning at 8:30)
email our choral department for more details

Sacred Piano Reading Session
also featuring Jay Rouse
Saturday 8/10/2019, 2:00 pm-4:30 pm
Stanton’s Sheet Music
330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Cost: $5.00 (There is no pre-registration; you may register at the door beginning at 1:30)
email our keyboard department for more details

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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

FOR COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY CHOIR
And Sure Stars Shining by Z. Randall Stroope, SATB with piano, text by Sara Teasdale
Embracing the hope that dreams may someday become a reality, this musical setting is actively stirring, with stunning harmonic and melodic moments. It seeks to capture that internal ecstasy and “beyond this world utopia” that was the reality Sara Teasdale so wanted, and seemingly never achieved.

i carry your heart by Eric Whitacre, SATB a cappella, text by e.e. cummings
Written for best friends of the composer and premiered by the LA Master Chorale. The heart of this piece is reflected in the text “i am never without it.” This is an intimate text set in an intimate way.

FOR HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR
In Flanders Fields by Greg Gilpin, SATB with piano & cello, text by John McRae
One of the best known and oft-quoted poems from World War I, Greg Gilpin’s setting of this text is exquisitely solemn, quiet and emotional. The musical interpretation is filled with rich harmonic structures supporting a haunting melodic motif creating beautiful selection for remembrance of veterans at home and abroad.

Songs in the Night by Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano, adapted from texts by William Blake and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
This artful setting of adapted texts by William Blake and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow features sweeping melodic lines and graceful, gorgeous choral sonorities destined to showcase your treble or mixed choirs. A stunning choice for concert or festival, the accompaniment is rich and lush, one of the many characteristics of Johnson’s superb choral writing.

FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL CHOIR
The Music-Makers by Ruth Morris Gray, SAB with piano, text by Arthur O’Shaughnessy
A driving rhythmic accompaniment and an inspiring text based on Arthur O’Shaughnessy’s “Ode” create a thrilling piece to both sing and hear. Accessible harmonies make teaching parts a snap, while robust poetry and captivating choral syncopations suggest a concert opener!

There Will Come Soft Rains by Laura Farnell, 3-part mixed with piano, text by Sara Teasdale
Laura Farnell’s setting of Sara Teasdale’s “There Will Come Soft Rains” is an elegant choice for concert or festival performance. These profound words are the inspiration for Teasdale’s emotional response to war, beautifully set by Farnell.

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!

recommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

Kick It by Kris Berg, Grade 2
We welcome Kris Berg to the Kendor family of writers with this fun and energetic chart written in a New Orleans 2nd line groove over a C7 blues. After the band trades licks with the drummer, the chart roars to a big ending, thunderous applause, and your audience marchin’ down the aisles! The written or ad lib solo section can be played by anyone. Featuring Kendor Konvertible scoring for 9-17 players, each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson and optional flute, clarinet, horn in f, tuba and vibes parts.

Catwalk by Andrew Neu, Grade 3.5
This chart for advancing groups is inspired by the music of Henry Mancini and the spy movies of the 1960’s. This cool minor swing tune features alto saxophone, trumpet and guitar on the melody, and written or ad lib solos for alto and trumpet. It is also the title track for the most recent Andrew Neu Big Band CD “Catwalk” (CGN Records). A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set.

Blues and More by Jeff Jarvis, Grade 3.5
As the title implies, this chart is more than just a blues – it’s scored in a blues format, but with a bridge. The tuneful melody is supported by well-articulated and dense ensemble writing. The exciting ensemble parts are supported by rich harmonies and all instruments have interesting material to play. Due to the accessible blues progression, everyone is encouraged to get into the spotlight using the solo sheets provided!

Ever After by David Springfield, Grade 3.5
Written for advancing groups to feature any instrument, this beautiful ballad with trumpets on flugelhorns changes to a double-time Latin feel for the improvisation section. This is an excellent vehicle for a talented soloist from within the band or a featured guest artist. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson, as well as optional vibes is included in each set.

Change Up by Carl Strommen, Grade 1
Based on the chord changes to “I Got Rhythm” by George Gershwin, this bright swing chart was written especially for beginning groups. Brass ranges are accessible with trumpet up to Eb5 and D4 for trombone. Rhythm section parts provide the drummer with a solid concept of what to play, and notated piano voicings and bass lines are provided. The solo section is written out with solo sheets provided in all keys along with scales to assist students in improvisation. Featuring Kendor Konvertible scoring for 9-17 players, each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson and optional flute, clarinet, horn in f, tuba and vibes parts.

Groove Fever by Peter Blair, Grade 1
This swing chart for beginning groups is based on the chord changes to “Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise” by Sigmund Romberg, and made famous by clarinetist/big band leader Artie Shaw. The solo section is playable by any instrument, with solo sheets provided in all keys along with scales to assist students in improvisation. Featuring Kendor Konvertible scoring for 9-17 players, each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson and optional flute, clarinet, horn in f, tuba and vibes parts.

Hello, Bluebird by Ryan Erik Adamsons, Grade 1
Based on the chord changes to “Bye Bye Blackbird” by Ray Henderson, this swinging chart is a workout for the full ensemble. Written for beginning groups, it’s a great chart to introduce swing figures on a jazz standard. Brass ranges are accessible with trumpet up to G5 and D4 for trombone. Rhythm section parts provide the drummer with a solid concept of what to play, and notated piano voicings and bass lines are provided. The solo section is written out with solo sheets provided in all keys along with scales to assist students in improvisation.

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.

recommended by Dan C., Orchestra Specialist

Not only can you teach new musical concepts to your young players, you can give them some geographical references along the way. Stanton’s always looks for pieces that give everyone interesting parts to play along with many learning opportunities, and these are no exception. Travel to Mexico, England and Ireland with these three winners at the grade 1 to 1½ level and bring the audience along for the ride. You could even add a social studies lesson if you’d like.

Sound the Trumpets arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 1
Reminiscent of “Simple Gifts,” another Shaker tune, this one was originally called “Mother’s Golden Trumpet” and appeared in a collection for Christmas. It could be used on a holiday concert, but would easily fit in any musical presentation. It could also be used within a cross-cultural curriculum. There is some part-independence, with cascading entrances plus always-solid, veteran arranger Ms. Monday scored it especially for equal playing among sections. There are some quirky, odd-measure phrases typical of this “old-timey” music which adds to the charm. Perfect for starting out your second year players at the beginning of the school year.

Huevos Rancheros by George T. Brueh, Grade 1+
Here’s a catchy tune inspired by a popular Mexican breakfast! Your first and/or second year players will have a blast with this little Latin loop-de-loop. There are suggestions on the score to help teach the syncopated Latin rhythms. Cellos and basses keep a groove going, but sometimes join the others in rhythmic unisons, and everybody gets to remember where to lay in the C naturals. Buen Apetito!

Where the River Shannon Flows arr. Brian Balmages, Grade 1.5
Young players often like to play loud and fast, but every now and then they need to play sweet and slow to build maturity and musicality plus develop their listening skills and their sense of ensemble. Here is the perfect Grade 1.5 piece to that end. Starting with the eponymous, beautiful Irish love song, Brian Balmages uses his unique orchestrating skills and lush harmonic sense to weave the melody through an increasingly complex series of textures and colors without using any rhythms more involved than quarter notes or any notes out of first position, except for basses. Fourth fingers are recommended in the violins and violas to avoid open strings for a less strident tone. The piece has a natural flow at almost any tempo, but you won’t want to take it too fast. The melody in cellos and basses adds some subtle moments of tension as the piece moves toward its glorious climax. Don’t let this one slip your attention. It is absolutely stunning.

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.

Stanton’s Super Session
Saturday 8/3/2019, 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 South Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
REGISTRATION: $60.00 (includes lunch)

Do you need to put a little “spark” in your choral program? Is there just too much new music out there for you to review? Join us for a fun, enriching day of music education with Greg Gilpin, Anna Wentlent, and Stanton’s own Jen Sper featuring music from Alfred Publications, Shawnee Press, Choristers Guild, Heritage Music Press, and other choral publishers. Nowhere else will you find such a variety of new choral selections and teaching resources to inspire and motivate you and your students as you begin the school year.

We’re excited to host ALL of our valuable School Choral Week sessions this year at our store in downtown Columbus Ohio! There’s no better destination for music, and you’ll love being able to explore all the resources that Stanton’s has to offer.

Visit our previous post for information on how to choose the Stanton’s session that is best for you.

Registration opens on April 1st! Call us at 1.800.42.MUSIC for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

A Young Singer’s Journey is a valuable set of workbooks developed by respected conductors Jean Ashworth Bartle, Eileen Baldwin, and Linda Beaupre. Written and designed for children who love to sing, the authors have shared the ways in which they have successfully taught children to master the basic components of musical literacy – theory, ear training, and sight-singing. These three components are integrated with song material and warm-ups in imaginative ways that make the process pleasurable and rewarding for young singers. Each of the five workbooks includes accompanying materials via convenient download: audio tracks, and sight-singing and warm-up exercises for each level.

Perfect for young private voice students or classroom/choral use, we highly recommend A Young Singer’s Journey! Contact us for more recommendations, and 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.

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

FOR HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR
Be the Hero (from Big Fish) arr. Mark Brymer, SATB with piano (optional combo)
Be the hero of your story and you will always be the hero that lives on. This perfect little Broadway two beat song is up-beat, positive and full of fun and adventure. A chance for your singers to “tell a story” that highlights the importance of truth, hope and desire. Lessons learned of being the first to embrace the life we live and the life we hope for.

Dream arr. Russell Robinson, SATB a cappella
Written by songwriting legend Johnny Mercer, “Dream” has been covered by artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Michael Bublé. A rubato section in straight eighths opens this rich a cappella setting, before breaking into a moderate swing tempo with finger snaps. A final return to the earlier duple feel leads to a soft, sensitive ending. Perfect for exploring both jazz harmony and stylizations.

Heal the World arr. Mac Huff, SATB with piano (optional rhythm)
With a message that seems to become more important with each passing year, Michael Jackson’s 1991 ballad championing the power of healing and acceptance has stood the test of time. A powerful arrangement features four soloists interweaving with the choir leading to a dynamic climax!

This Magic Moment arr. Mac Huff, SATB with piano (optional combo)
First recorded by Ben E. King and the Drifters in 1960, this easy listening love song is here set in a doo-wop style that hearkens back to the 1950s with finger snaps, a doo-wop bass line and a feature for a soloist who can really bring the style. The instrumental accompaniment for two trumpets, tenor and baritone saxophones, trombone and rhythm section is just as stylish as the vocals and together a scene with poodle skirts, bobby sox, duck tail hairstyles and all things cool from the period is set.

Will You Be There arr. Alan Billingsley, SATB with piano (optional rhythm)
Even in live performance this Michael Jackson ballad had a full back up choir of children and adults. Here is a wonderful pop tune written for choir and with a message of love and commitment that will resonate with singers and listeners. This arrangement captures the pop style while expanding on the choral footprint.

FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL CHOIR
Brave arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
The text of this chart topping song by Sara Bareilles and Jack Antonoff inspires those who sing it and those who hear it. Excellent teaching and rehearsal notes are offered by the arranger making this song a wonderful tool for highlighting the importance of the text and teaching rhythms.

The Lion Sleeps Tonight arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano, optional djembe & shaker
Here is one of the most popular doo-wop songs ever! This arrangement features percussion parts for djembe and shaker, a simple piano part and ranges that are perfect for young singers. The “call and response” form allows for easy learning. Every parent in the audience will know the tune, making it lots of fun for them to join in if they want.

Sing arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
“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.

This Is Me (from The Greatest Showman) arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano
The biggest hit from “The Greatest Showman” has been arranged for young developing voices in this accessible version. Plenty of unison, easy-to-teach harmonies, comfortable ranges, and solo opportunities make this a surefire selection for your elementary and middle school choirs.

Un Poco Loco (from Coco) arr. Mark Brymer, 2-part with piano (optional combo)
Translating to “A Little Crazy,” the lyrics to this song are just that. Full of whimsy and surprises. The verse text is in English while the repeated lines are in Spanish. A fun hand-clapping section lends itself to movement if desired and the repeated sections make this easy to learn.

FOR TREBLE CHOIR
Songs of a Disney Hero (Medley) arr. Alan Billingsley, SSA with piano (optional combo)
Show your mettle and embrace your inner hero with this medley of Disney songs of bravery and adventure. Whatever the task, your choirs will be up to it as they are taught lessons of valor as only Disney movies can! Includes: “How Far I’ll Go,” “Touch the Sky,” “Reflection,” “When Will My Life Begin?” and “Zero to Hero.”

Think arr. Mark Brymer, SSA with piano (optional combo)
From the undisputed Queen of Soul, this is one of Aretha’s iconic songs and always listed as one of the greatest pop & R&B songs of all time. This arrangement stays true to the style and allows your students a chance to dig into this important style.

Walking On Sunshine arr. Mac Huff, SSA with piano
Here’s a sunny blast from the past! This 1985 hit by Katrina and the Waves is a super choice for pop and show groups.

Summertime arr. Roger Emerson, SSA with piano
Unlike the original ballad heard in the opera “Porgy and Bess” and sung by a high soprano, here is an easy swing rendition placed in a key that is comfortable for developing voices. The section with a written out scat solo can be easily repeated for those choirs learning to improvise.

FOR TENOR/BASS CHOIR
Fight the Dragons (from Big Fish) arr. Greg Gilpin, TBB with piano (optional rhythm)
From the Broadway musical “Big Fish” comes a song about finding the adventure in everyday life, as well as the bond between father and son. Greg Gilpin has designed this well-fitted feature for men’s ensembles that is equal parts strength and sensitivity. Great messaging for guys!

I’m Still Standing arr. Pete Schmutte, TTB with piano (optional combo)
British rocker Elton John made this famous in 1983 and stated that it was “my reaction to still being relevant and successful in the early 1980s.” The message rings just as clear today with rock and roll still ruling the music scene, generation after generation. Instrumental parts available for a powerhouse performance.

Valentine arr. Jacob Narverud, (T)TBB with optional piano and rhythm
From the pop group Train’s album “A Girl, A Bottle, A Boat” comes this ’50s throwback for today’s generation to enjoy. Set either accompanied or a cappella, Jake Narverud has captured the novel sound of the original recording with this mixed voiced setting. Pure fun and great musical learning!

Good Vibrations arr. Mark Brymer, TTBB with piano (optional combo)
Rated by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the top 500 rock songs of all time, “Good Vibrations” is a rock classic. This arrangement builds on the happy “rock shuffle” groove and the now legendary harmonic progressions of the Beach Boys.

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!