Creative Programming: German Art Song for Choir Monday, April 22, 2019
recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialist
Er, der Herrlichste von Allen by Robert Schumann/arr. Thea Sikora Engelson, SSA with piano
This excellent arrangement of a song from a solo song cycle by famed composer Robert Schumann will add some class to a program. Sing it in the original German or in English.
Du bist die Ruh’ by Franz Schubert/arr. Robert Sieving, SATB with piano
A romantic song composed by Schubert for solo voice is now tastefully arranged for mixed voices. It can be sung in the original German or using the excellent English version. The elegant accompaniment is supportive of the voices throughout.
Die junge Nonne by Franz Schubert/arr. Brandon Williams, SSA with piano
Nineteenth century composer Franz Schubert (1797-1828) wrote more than 600 “lieder” 
or “songs” – vocal songs accompanied by piano. He raised this to an art form by equalizing the importance of the music and poetry and expanding the role of the piano accompaniment. In this composition, take special notice of the text painting depicted by harmonic shifts and descriptive music.
Er ist gekommen by Clara Schumann/arr. Brandon Williams, SSA with piano
One of four songs presented to Robert Schumann by his wife Clara, this setting is a shining example of the composer’s ingenuity, and is a wonderful introduction to Romantic era style and performance practice.
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.