Creative Programming: Spring Has Sprung! Friday, March 06, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Plan for upcoming concerts with these new options, perfect for springtime performances!
An April Morning by Bruce W. Tippette, SATB with piano
Bruce W. Tippette takes the words of Sara Teasdale’s poem “Morning” and beautifully sets them for SATB voices with an expressive, yet supportive piano accompaniment. The use of overlapping vocal lines, coupled with tonal clusters, give each part importance while creating harmonic delight. This is a great piece for intermediate high school and even some advanced middle schools.
The Breeze and the Birdsong by Amy F. Bernon, 2-part with piano
This song is dedicated to a dear friend who is about to start a new chapter of life. It’s full of descriptions of nature and fresh adventures: “May the bright, sparkling day stay beside you now as you’re on your way.” Bernon’s delightful original also makes for a memorable and meaningful graduation selection for young singers who are moving up to middle or high school and experiencing important transitions of their own. A Learning Resource Page is included.
Winter’s Defeat by Gwyn Williams/arr. Charles McCartha, SAB with piano and optional flute & hand drum
The optional lilting flute and rhythmic hand drum parts lend a festive air to this song that celebrates the end of winter. Robust choral singing throughout beckons a change of season, and a soaring descant at the end signals the triumphant return of spring. A fully developed piece for winter and spring programs.
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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!