By the Dawn’s Early Light: Creative Programming for Patriotic Occasions Monday, September 30, 2019
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
In drawing inspiration from U.S. culture and history, consider programming American Patriotic music in your next choral concert. With a nod to military themes and eloquent poetry, these octavos offer a respectful yet fresh perspective in honoring “those who came before us.”
O Say, Can You See by Ruth Morris Gray, SATB with piano
Program this moving patriotic piece to celebrate our country at any time of year. An all-new original melody and a shimmering accompaniment beautifully highlight Francis Scott Key’s words from “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Toward the end, a lush musical quote from the national anthem blossoms into a final glorious refrain, a soaring penultimate cadence, and one last introspective accolade for “the brave!”
We Remember Them by Susan LaBarr, SATB with piano
The moving words, “As long as we live, we remember them” frame this highly melodic and touching song. We Remember Them is a highly-achievable work for SATB chorus and piano and will be a beautiful addition to any program. Also appropriate for memorial services and funerals.
To Those Who Came Before Us by Jim Papoulis, TTBB with piano
Conceived as a way to honor the bravery of military men and women as well as honoring those in everyone’s lives whose hard work, achievements and sacrifices inspire us daily. The songwriters were especially inspired by “The Independence Fund” a remarkable organization working to move severely injured American military veterans toward greater independent mobility.
Two Brothers arr. Emily Crocker, TTB with piano, optional violin & snare drum
Complete with violin and snare drum, and set to an immovable, unshakable tempo, this Civil War classic chronicles the journey and plight of two brothers on opposite sides of the Mason/Dixon Line.
Find more patriotic repertoire on our website, or contact us for more recommendations. 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!