Creative Programming: For Hanukkah Monday, October 28, 2019
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Eight Days of Lights by Judith Clurman & David Chase, SATB divisi with piano
Chanukah is a celebration of freedom. Legend has it that when the eternal light was rekindled, there was only enough oil for one day. It miraculously lasted for eight. This new piece celebrates the festival and the miracle.
Hanukkah Hayom arr. Michael Larkin, SAB with piano
An authentic celebration of the holiday. This arrangement of the traditional Hanukkah song allows you to choose between the original Hebrew text and a poetic text in English. Lyrical verses focus on lighting the candles, and the dance-like refrain grows even more joyful when embellished with a soaring upper harmony near the end.
Light by Lisa Loeb/arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano
A folk-infused ballad celebrating the miracle of Hanukkah. Originally recorded by ’90s pop sensation Lisa Loeb, this reflective change-of-pace choral features a rhythmic yet mellow accompaniment and straightforward but expressive vocal parts. Whether you perform with the guitar-inspired piano part, the optional SoundTrax CD, or a folk ensemble of your own, this is truly a special touch for holiday concerts.
Light the Candles of Hanukkah by Ruth Elaine Schram & Aren Newell Williams, 3-part mixed with piano
This unique original, set in a strong, pop-anthem style, is in major mode and incorporates a text recalling the reason for the seasonal celebration. Limited ranges, repetition and the appealing rhythmic feel ensure success for young and developing choirs and allow it to be performance ready with limited rehearsal time.
Find more Hanukkah programming options on our website, or contact us to brainstorm 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!