News & Views Friday, April 19, 2024

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Prepare for Christmas with your church choir with one of these outstanding anthems, carefully selected by our experienced Sacred Choral Music staff.

The Angel Gabriel arr. John Leavitt, SATB with piano & optional chamber orchestra
This lesser-known carol receives special treatment in an artful rendition. Offered with the option of a charming chamber orchestration, the seasonal offering is ideal for community choir concerts or lessons and carols programs. The text presents the angelic visitation to Mary and fills an important liturgical slot for church choir directors.

Of the Father’s Love Begotten arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano & optional 2-octave handbells
This Christmas Quick Study Choral is easily learned and has a simple accompaniment, and a part for optional 2 octave handbells, which is included.

Light in the Heart of Winter arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This memorable Advent anthem perfectly pairs the gorgeous Irish melody, SALLEY GARDENS, with a picturesque lyric by Nancy Middlemas: “The golden glow of autumn has left us long ago. The gathering clouds of winter have touched the pines with snow. The wind sings a song of longing, as the sky turns cold and gray. But a Light in the heart of winter will warm the chill away.

Soft, On That Night arr. Howard Helvey, SATB with piano
This beautifully crafted, sweet-sounding anthem is in a slow and gentle 6/8. The recurring “sing Noel” motif is passed to each voice part and appears in the piano accompaniment. The meaningful text is sensitively set in this elegant offering.

Behold a Savior! by Jay Rouse, SATB with piano
Encourage your congregation to behold the Savior with this energy filled selection from Jay Rouse and Rose Aspinall. With a robust, fanfare introduction, powerful music from Jay that includes a brief passage from “O Holy Night,” and inspired text that only Rouse can provide, this unique anthem is sure to intensify your Christmas worship!

What Did You Say Was the Baby’s Name? arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano & optional rhythm
Get ready for a gospel celebration! Easily learned, with a laid-back groove, this arrangement of the Bill and Gloria Gaither tune pulls out all the stops with well-placed key changes, a cappella breaks, some stylized vocals, and a big ending. The optional rhythm parts enhance this gospel roof-raiser. Very well done!

There Is No Rose of Such Virtue by Beth Kenreich, SATB a cappella
A sensitive, lyrical setting of the well-known 15th century English carol. This music is accessible to most choirs and provides lots of opportunity to practice legato singing, phrasing, word stress, and tuning.

Patapan arr. Howard Helvey, SATB with 4-hand piano
This rousing rendition of the traditional French/Burgundian Carol begs to be sung by an ambitious SATB choir accompanied by two capable pianists. This anthem will make an exciting festival or concert presentation, church or school, and is also suited for any service of celebration during the Christmas season.

The Journey arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
A thought-provoking retelling of the story of the Magi quotes KINGS OF THE ORIENT by John H. Hopkins, with text based on Matthew 2:1-12. It is well within the reach of the typical church choir.

Find more options for your church choir on our website, or contact us for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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 15 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.

recommended by Dan C. and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists

Water Music (Minuet & Bourree) by G.F. Handel/arr. Carrie Lane Gruselle, Grade 1
Feature this amazingly authentic arrangement of a Baroque masterpiece! Two movements from Handel’s “Water Music Suite No. 2” highlight some of the most famous music from the Baroque era while falling well within the technical capability of a young orchestra. Wonderful music with a vast amount of teaching opportunities!
TEACH • martelé/detaché, dynamic contrast, G string notes, trill
ORCHESTRATION • everyone active with lots of unison rhythms
PERFORMANCE • Water Music a perennial favorite for all involved

Saltarello by Vincenzo Galilei/arr. Morgan Denney, Grade 1.5
This lively triple-meter dance from the 16th century is very popular with classical guitarists and is now a wonderful addition to the string orchestra repertoire. Pizzicato accompaniments interact with a playful melody that is cleverly developed throughout the ensemble. A delightful work perfect as a change of pace on any program.
TEACH • eighth notes slurred & separate, passing melody, pizzicato accompaniment
ORCHESTRATION • generously shared melody to be brought out
PERFORMANCE • Italian “saltare” is “to jump” for a lively dance

Mahler’s Mysterious March by Gustav Mahler/arr. Jim Palmer, Grade 1.5
This piece is based on a minor version of “Frère Jacques” as heard in Gustav Mahler’s first symphony. The haunting melody and creative variations will capture the students’ interest right away. The wide range of dynamics and contrasting styles in this theme and variation setting create a beautiful piece for the concert and festival stage.
TEACH • contrasting dynamics & styles, C & F natural in E minor
ORCHESTRATION • three variations give everyone the spotlight
PERFORMANCE • rare to get to play Mahler at this grade level

Brandenburg Concerto #5 by J.S. Bach/arr. Richard Meyer, Grade 1.5
The famous first movement of Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto No. 5,” arranged by Richard Meyer, has been simplified and shortened for the first-year player but still retains all the energy and spirit of the original. It uses only the notes of the D major scale (including a few “high E’s” for Violin I), and the rhythms are within reach of players with very little experience. The perfect selection for your beginning orchestra’s first “real piece,” this arrangement is sure to become a traditional part of your string curriculum.
TEACH • arpeggios, violin 4th finger E, double V, dotted rhythms
ORCHESTRATION • Brandenburgs are busy – no exception here!
PERFORMANCE • standard repertoire every student should know

Ukrainian Dance (Hopak) by Modest Mussorgsky/arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 2
This energetic and lively dance features some of the most delightful themes from Mussorgsky’s original. Based in G Major, this arrangement also showcases some of the composer’s harmonic vocabulary while using very few accidentals. A perfect selection to change the pace of your concert, especially after a heavy work.
TEACH • “circular” bowing, offbeats, simple chromatics, trills
ORCHESTRATION • cascading entrances and Q&A add interest
PERFORMANCE • “leaping & stomping” dance will bring smiles

Norwegian Dance, Op. 35 #2 by Edvard Grieg/arr. Jeff Bailey, Grade 2.5
What a light and cute contribution to any concert! The use of staccatos in this arrangement serves as a perfect tool to improve and polish ensemble precision. In G Major and all in 1st position.
TEACH • triplets, 16th notes, C#, D#, A#, Eb, Bb, chromatics
ORCHESTRATION • 1st violins share melody with 2nd, violas, cellos
PERFORMANCE • delightful melody sprinkled with ritards & holds

Finale from Symphony #12 by F.J. Haydn/arr. Carrie Lane Gruselle, Grade 2.5
Treat your students to this spectacular arrangement showcasing the “Father of the Symphony.” This exquisitely orchestrated arrangement teaches a wealth of skills including off-the-string eighth notes, detaché, sixteenth notes, chromatic alterations, and includes abundant opportunities to practice up-beats at the frog. Engaging for every member of the orchestra!
TEACH • detaché 16th notes, low & high fingers, pickups at frog
ORCHESTRATION • activity for everyone in melody and accompaniment
PERFORMANCE • early Haydn opus is refreshingly celebratory

Slavonic Dance, Op. 46 #3 by Antonin Dvorak/arr. Jim Palmer, Grade 3
Lively and full of character, this arrangement will be an exciting opener or closer to any concert. Featuring traditional rhythms of Slavic folk music, the piece will give all players a chance to play lyrical melodies as well as exciting dance-like rhythms.
TEACH • end a slur with staccato, offbeats, abrupt tempo change
ORCHESTRATION • everyone but basses gets melodic material
PERFORMANCE • Dvorak’s Slavonic Dances are always a treat

Fanfare from La Peri by Paul Dukas/arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 3
Originally composed for brass, this extraordinary prelude is now available for string orchestra! Dukas wrote it to precede the beginning of his ballet, “La Peri,” to help patrons settle into their seats for the opening of the ballet. A stunning opener for any concert!
TEACH • subdivision, 20th century harmony, French instructions
ORCHESTRATION • everyone has equal musical challenges
PERFORMANCE • an impressive concert opener when polished

Need more classics for your orchestra? Find more on our website, or contact us to brainstorm ideas. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
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, and is recently retired – congrats, Dan!

Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Silent Night: The Birth of a Carol by Hal H. Hopson
Travel back to Christmas Eve, 1818 and a small Austrian church nestled in the Alps where the beloved carol “Silent Night” was born. Mice have made a shambles of the organ creating quite a problem for Pastor Joseph Mohr and Franz Gruber, the church organist. Don’t worry, there’s a happy ending! Songs include: Church Bells; Antiphonal Gloria; Song of the Gleeful Mice; Tyrolean Street Carol; The Christmas Band; Herr Gruber’s Carol; Silent Night, Holy Night; Silent Night, Holy Night (Reprise) and Church Bell. 16 minutes.

Find more sacred musicals on our website, or contact us for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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 15 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.

recommended by Barb M., Keyboard & Folk Music Specialist

Worship Solos for Fingerstyle Guitar
This collection of 15 praise and worship songs is written for intermediate fingerstyle guitar. The arrangements are written both in tablature and in standard notation. Favorites include “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” “Ancient Words,” and “I Will Rise.” This collection would be great to play for prelude, offertory, or special music. Many times, there are piano solo collections for praise and worship, so this collection for guitar offers an attractive alternative!

For more information, 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!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music. This series, The Stanton’s Difference, highlights just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

Do any of these situations sound familiar?
– “My accompanist broke her wrist and can’t play my concert next week! I need a CD accompaniment right away!”
– “A long-time supporter of our church music program passed away and asked for a specific song for his funeral – but I don’t have it in my library!”
– “We have jazz band rehearsal after school today, but my Trumpet 2 player lost his part!”

Stanton’s to the rescue! When you find yourself in a musical time crunch, give us a call and we can explore your options to make sure you get the music you need, right when you need it.

Digital Delivery: Many titles are available for immediate download to your printer or tablet via Stanton’s Digital Delivery. Search for the title, select the instrument or format you need, transpose to a different key if necessary, submit your order, and print right away! We can even bill your school or church account for digital purchases – just place your order with us by phone or email and our Sheet Music Specialists can help. Visit our previous post for more information about Digital Delivery.

Expedited shipping: Need it fast? Items in-stock at our large brick-and-mortar store in Columbus Ohio usually ship within 24 hours of your order, and most shipments are delivered within three days to any location in the U.S. Need it even faster? Ask your Sheet Music Specialist to expedite your shipment – shipping is available via Next Day, Second Day, and Third Day Air (additional shipping charges apply) to guarantee that you receive your order in time.

Drop shipments: What if Stanton’s doesn’t have your music in-stock? We can also have music shipped to you directly from a publisher’s warehouse to fulfill your order. Our Sheet Music Specialists can advise you on the best options to fit your timeline and your budget.

For more details or questions, please visit us online at stantons.com, or give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC!

Click here for more information on the STANTON’S DIFFERENCE!

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

Presents On Parade! by Sally K. Albrecht, Jay Althouse, Andy Beck & Brian Fisher
When the kids learn they could snag a spot in Toyland Department Store’s amazing annual parade, they march into action: taking a quick journey “Over the River,” experiencing a fabulous “Toyland” welcome, and winning a contest during Victor Herbert’s “March of the Toys,” all followed by a quick “Deck the Hall” costume change (they step into large gift-wrapped boxes). Before you know it, it’s time for the much-anticipated finale! Production notes suggest how to easily extend your closing parade to include the entire school and/or audience. Recognizable holiday songs, a simple script, and creative staging instructions make this festive 20-minute mini-musical a snap. Recommended for grades K-4.

Find more options for elementary holiday musicals on our website, or contact us for more ideas! 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!

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

In programming your school concerts this year, consider gathering inspiration from this combination of folk songs and spirituals! Whether your concert needs include great festival pieces, concert closers, novelties, artistically crafted accompaniments, or joyful celebrations, these new selections could add just the right creative touch to your concert season!

Deep River arr. Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
Johnson’s artistically crafted piano accompaniment creates a gentle, wave-like motion throughout to support the warm, lush choral textures and harmonies in this superb arrangement of the beloved spiritual. This elegant, emotional and yet accessible setting is destined to become a staple in choral repertoire for both school and church choirs.

No Ways Tired arr. Rollo Dilworth, SATB with piano
Now available for SATB choirs. This spiritual encourages us to persevere even in times of challenge and adversity. Set in a gospel style with call and response, and repeated refrains, this work builds to a climactic “special chorus” bringing a spirit of empowerment and joyful celebration to your concert.

Shenandoah arr. Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano & oboe
A plaintive oboe solo floats above an expressive piano accompaniment in this inspired arrangement of the much-loved American folk song. Featuring unique harmonic twists and turns, and a gradual broadening of the original melody that mimics the movement of the river itself. A refreshing reimagining of a treasured classic.

Down in the River to Pray arr. Jace Wittig, SSAA a cappella with body percussion
The Colorado all-state treble choir stood outside their hotel rooms, many stories high, singers at all levels, singing this arrangement into the atrium in the center. The sound was compelling and so it was recorded on someone’s iPhone and posted on YouTube. Then it went viral. The next you know it was programmed for the ACDA National Convention. It is a stunning arrangement that builds just right.

Chicken on a Fencepost arr. Greg Gilpin, 3-part mixed with piano
Chickin’ scratchin’ fun abounds in Gilpin’s arrangement of the 19th century dance reels “Hello Susan Brown” and “Four in the Middle.” Even though this is a novelty piece, it is full of teaching opportunities, rehearsal fun and is sure to be a performing gem.

Bound for Canaan Lan’ arr. Stacey V. Gibbs, SATB a cappella
A superb arrangement of this well-known spiritual by prolific composer Stacey Gibbs is highly engaging. From the joyous opening, the energetic rhythms portray a picture of the hopeful text. A great festival piece, concert closer or encore number for burgeoning mixed ensembles.

O! What a Beautiful City arr. Shawn Kirchner, SSSAAA with piano
Now for treble choir! Inspired by the Joseph Jennings arrangement of this same tune for Chanticleer, Shawn combines the five syllable “Halleluia” with the timeless melody of the old spiritual. A true gospel piano part, for years improvised by the arranger and now written down along with an optional coda for any choir blessed with a great gospel soloist. This is a concert “closer” of the highest order.

Find more great repertoire options on our website, or contact us for more information. 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!

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

Everlasting Light by Lloyd Larson, Mary McDonald, Jay Rouse & Larry Shackley
From the collaborative efforts of Lloyd Larson, Mary McDonald, Jay Rouse, and Larry Shackley, “Everlasting Light” showcases the profound significance of the light of Christ come to earth. An insightful narration by Rose Aspinall incorporates scripture and personal reflection to tie together the compelling combination of powerful original music and beloved carols. Mary McDonald’s celebratory opener, “Everlasting Light,” acts as the cornerstone of the work. Larry Shackley’s “Longing for the Light” beautifully portrays a yearning for restoration; Jay Rouse offers a stirring original song with words inspired by Mary’s Songs of Praise found in Luke 1:44-56; and Lloyd Larson’s “Shepherds and Angels” adds rhythmic and joyful energy. The work concludes with a robust medley of carols that points back to the opening song: “He is the Light, Everlasting Light; born a Savior, born this night. He is the One, the Everlasting Son; Child of heaven, He is the Light!”

Love Made a Way by Mary McDonald & Jay Rouse
Mary McDonald and Jay Rouse combine their compositional gifts to bring us this moving musical for Advent and Christmas. Beautiful music from Mary and Jay, deeply thoughtful narrations from Rose Aspinall, and a fabulous orchestration by Ed Hogan and Jay highlight the message at the heart of Christmas God’s love through Jesus Christ. You’ll find a bit of everything here, including original songs, familiar carols, fresh settings of timeless Christmas favorites, and ministry songs that will reach the heart of every listener. Songs like Mary’s “Sing Out Our Savior’s Birth” and “Look on Him with Love” and Jay’s “A Midwinter Noel” and “Love Made a Way” all serve to bring into focus God’s undeserved and unfathomable love through Jesus Christ. Celebrate how love made a way for each of us with this impactful musical! “His coming means freedom for the captive, sight for the blind, good news for the poor. Jesus is Love incarnate, and He alone makes a way home for fallen man.”

Seekers of the Light by Lloyd Larson & Mark Hayes
The world was lost in darkness. Roman oppression weighed heavily and God’s people were awaiting a Messiah. There were astrologers…literally following the light of the heavens and prophecies of the coming Messiah. But there were other “seekers of the Light”: Mary and Joseph, simple shepherds in a field, and the prophets. Then, it happened. The Light of the World was born. Follow the respective journeys of these “seekers of the light” to learn what we can from their sojourns. May we likewise seek and find The Light for our journey…and transform our lives with a fresh touch of God’s miraculous grace and gift of Love.

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 15 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.

Hollywood Africans reached number 33 on Billboard’s United States Top Current Album chart in 2018. Included are originals “Kenner Boogie,” named for the composer’s home town, and “Don’t Stop,” cowritten with Steve McEwan. New covers of “Smile” (Charlie Chaplin) and Ray Noble’s “The Very Thought of You” are part of this ten-title offering.

Jon Batiste and his band, Stay Human, have been the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert since 2015.  A graduate of Julliard, Jon Batiste has much to offer the music scene not only in New York City, but also to the nation at large. Give this album a listen, then see which songs are the ones you want to learn to play first!

For more information about this collection, contact 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!

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music. This series, The Stanton’s Difference, highlights just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

Besides making it a road trip to Stanton’s to work with our knowledgeable staff, you can also bring your students!

While a number of directors visit us on Saturdays or professional days throughout the school year, and some make a summer pilgrimage from nearby states, it is also not unusual for us to see a school bus full of students pull into our parking lot about once or twice a year (don’t worry, we only hide briefly). After a quick “lay-of-the-land” tour, we are happy to turn students loose to shop, and they are welcome to take advantage of our first-hand musical knowledge, as well.

Preparations for solo & ensemble adjudicated events provide a perfect opportunity to introduce your students to Stanton’s. What a great use of time, and a unique experience for the students! Besides finding their solo or ensemble piece with some guidance from their teacher, they are also free to check out a whole host of method and etude books, pop play-alongs, and holiday collections that are on-hand as well.

We often hear from educators who have moved on to other states that they do not have a music supplier like Stanton’s even within driving distance, and many stores do not let customers freely browse all of their titles. Besides having directors take advantage of stopping by the store, what can be better than bringing aspiring musicians (and tomorrow’s teachers!) to musical Candy Land!?

For more details or questions, please visit us online at stantons.com, or give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC!

Click here for more information on the STANTON’S DIFFERENCE!

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

As you say goodbye to summer and begin a new school year, consider these sophisticated yet approachable selections for programming with your beginning high school choir. Building from unison, to four-part harmony, these choral octavos and harmonization resources will be sure to get your year off to a great start!

Tongo arr. Greg Gilpin, SATB a cappella with percussion
Here’s a traditional canoe song from Polynesia that sounds quite impressive with a cappella voices, handclaps, and percussion instruments. The call-and-response format of Greg’s well-designed arrangement suggests people communicating from canoe to canoe as they travel between islands.

Hey Ho, Nobody Home arr. Ruth Morris Gray, SATB with piano
Delightfully playful with contrasting short and legato singing, this English folk song is a gem for any program. Harmonic writing surrounded by a round conjures its genesis of the English caroling tradition passed down generation to generation.

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.

Welcome Sweet Pleasure by Thomas Weelkes/arr. Christy Elsner, SATB a cappella
Lilting and dance-like, this popular Weelkes madrigal will be a delight to learn and perform with SATB choirs, especially developing choirs being introduced to the genre. With its brisk tempo, dynamic contrasts and flirtatious text, this is a wonderful teaching and performance piece for any program.

Harmony Handbook by Katie O’Connor-Ballantyne
A treasure trove of choral pedagogy! This step-by-step guide will take beginners from unison to two-part singing by focusing on the underlying aural and developmental skills necessary for success. Sequential chapters on unison, echo, round, and partner singing serve as benchmarks along the way to full harmony. Each of ten carefully curated songs is prefaced with a two-page rehearsal guide that targets essential objectives and suggests exercises and activities designed to introduce, explore, and master the pieces. Learn how to anticipate and address musical challenges for this repertoire, then transfer these masterful techniques to your entire program.

Eight Steps to Harmonization by Catherine DeLanoy
Lay the foundation for successful part-singing with this unique and valuable resource designed to aid music teachers by providing a step-by-step path for teaching young choirs how to sing harmony, building a bridge that transitions between elementary and high school music reading. Perfect for middle school, this resource can be easily adapted for younger and older singers. Each step in this book offers several songs that will give choirs the practice they need to master each type of harmonization. The enclosed CD-ROM includes mp3 recordings of piano accompaniments and PDFs of the piano/vocal scores for projection or printing. The progressive steps used to teach harmonization involve these familiar song styles: unison, ostinato, echo songs, descants, partner songs, rounds, polyphonic songs and homophonic songs.

Need more help? Contact us for more ideas or to brainstorm with us, and 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!

recommended by Caryn G. and Judy S., Sacred Keyboard Music Specialists

Newly composed in 2019, this Theme and Variations on Noel Nouvelet by Michael Burkhardt is a delight! The theme is stated simply, followed by the Canon, in which right and left hands take turns playing the theme. The Dance variation is merry, played with a light touch, and not too fast. The Pastorale is in 6/8, played slowly and lyrically; “Greensleeves” is quoted within this movement. The Rondo is played brightly and with rhythmic vigor, (as instructed by the composer). Registrations are noted at the beginning of each movement.

This may well become a favorite! Each movement can stand on its own, or the entire work may be performed for a recital. For more information about this organ music, or similar repertoire, please 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!

About the Authors:
Caryn G. has over 21 years of experience working at Stanton’s in both the Piano and Choral departments. During her career, she has been a church pianist/accompanist and a piano teacher. Her experience makes her a valuable connection for anybody who calls the piano department.

Judy S. has 30 years of private piano teaching experience and 40 years as a church pianist. Her experience makes her a valuable connection for anybody who calls the piano department.

We’ve written before on the Stanton’s blog about our knowledgeable staff. Now, we’d like to give you a chance to get to know our staff on a more personal level. We hope you will get to know the “real” us, and learn how we might better be of service to you!

Stanton’s Sheet Music welcomes Tami Martine to the Choral Department. Tami has 31 years of experience as a K-12 music educator in the Westerville schools. The first half of her career was spent in middle and high school choral classrooms while assisting with band and orchestra. For the second half of her career, Tami switched to general music in the elementary school.

Tami is most excited to be available to help music educators and make friends with other music teachers from around the world. Tami’s time is spent with her two wonderful grandchildren, a 3rd is on the way! Her hobbies include gardening, reading and home projects.

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music. This series, The Stanton’s Difference, highlights just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

So you want to program an old title. You call us to order it, or place your order at stantons.com. While taking/processing your order, our knowledgeable staff realizes the age of the title, either because we remember when it was published (yes, many of us have been here that long), or we’re tipped off by the catalog number – in fact, old Belwin/Columbia Pictures numbers contain the year of publication within them. Rather than just place the title on backorder and hope it comes in, we often check the availability of old titles right away! Our dealer access on various publishers’ websites allows us to check the status of a title, and, if it is urgent, we are happy to call our representatives on your behalf. This way you know as soon as possible whether you can expect to receive your title, or if you need to consider programming another piece. Sure, we hate to disappoint, but we’d rather you know sooner than later if a piece is unavailable so you can plan accordingly.

You need music in a hurry! Despite your best planning, sometimes music and scores get lost before an impending performance, or an administrator/civic leader requests a specific title that’s not in your library for performance at the end of the week. If you find yourself in a “sheet music emergency,” Stanton’s can help! If the music you need is in-stock, we will strive to get it out to you the same day as long as we have your order before 4:00 pm, and we’ll work with you to find the right balance of expedited shipping time and cost. If your item is not in-stock, we can arrange for drop-ship service directly from most publishers so that your music will ship within 24 hours. If your timetable is REALLY urgent, we will personally call your drop-ship order in to the publisher to ensure that it is handled properly and shipped the same day – most publishers can get expedited orders out the same day if they are placed by noon or 12:30 local (publisher) time. We strongly recommend that if you need to place an expedited or drop-ship order that you call us ASAP so that we can give your order the detailed attention it requires, and give you the service you deserve!

Does your sheet music store do this? If not, give us a call and see why Stanton’s Sheet Music has been the “Sheet Music Specialist” for almost 60 years!

Click here for more information on the STANTON’S DIFFERENCE!

recommended by Judy H. and Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialists

The Church of God Is One by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano & congregation, optional orchestra or brass ensemble
This celebration of Christian unity combines the words of 19th century hymnwriter Daniel W. Whittle with a bold, uplifting tune by Mary McDonald. Ideal for special church celebrations, the anthem offers a full orchestration, a smaller version for brass and percussion, and an opportunity for congregational singing. The P/A CD includes brass and percussion as well as full orchestra accompaniment.

Nearer, My God, to Thee arr. Mark Patterson, SATB divisi a cappella
¬Set in G-flat major with lush, close harmonies, this divisi, a cappella setting brings a new perspective to this timeless hymn.

Psalm 23 by Craig Courtney, SATB with piano, optional string quartet or orchestra
The promises of the Twenty-Third Palm text come to life in this deep but tender setting as it moves through the strong statement of faith for this life through the development of the beautiful musical picture of life eternal.

Rejoice, Ye Pure In Heart by Jay Rouse, SATB with piano
This driving arrangement by Jay Rouse is the perfect energetic service opener for celebrations of gratitude throughout the year. It combines the traditional Thanksgiving hymn lyrics with original verses by Rose Aspinall and a solid piano accompaniment.

Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven arr. Larry Shackley, SATB with piano, optional brass, handbells, organ, timpani & congregation
A majestic setting of the classic hymn tune LAUDA ANIMA, this anthem is suitable for any Sunday but ideal for special, festive occasions. The optional instrumental ensemble of brass, handbells, and timpani adds extra power, and the congregation can join in on the final stanza for an all-church worship experience.

Harvest Hymn arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Perfect for Thanksgiving, this reflective pairing of the hymn text, ‘Come, Ye Thankful People, Come’ with the tune, DIX, provides a rich, meaningful worship moment. This powerful ballad features lyrical vocal lines that build from beginning to end. Also useful for mission Sundays as well as the theme of Christ’s final return.

May the Road Rise Up by Jay Rouse, SATB with piano
Simple, elegant and useful for all age levels, this setting of the traditional Irish Blessing is a perfect closing selection for worship, concert, or festival use.

Make His Praise Glorious arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
Filled with joyous energy, this memorable anthem proclaims the praise of God with beauty and majesty. Incorporating the Doxology, the piece uses fun syncopations and a bit of mixed meter to create rhythmic vitality. Very catchy!

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 15 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.