Never One Thing: Creative Programming for Treble Choir Monday, March 30, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Powerful texts and music for your treble singers’ hearts and minds make for creative programming choices!
All the Way Home by Sarah Quartel, SSA with piano
This work for upper voices with a text by the composer was inspired by members of the Radcliffe Ladies’ Choir and their motto “friendship through singing.” The lilting vocal lines are subtly underpinned by a delicate piano accompaniment, and the opening performance direction, ‘contentedly rocking’, describes the overall nature of the piece: peaceful, content, and easy-going.
In Meeting We Are Blessed by Troy Robertson, SSA a cappella with djembe
With an original text inspired by John Donne, this piece illustrates the power of peace, and all the blessings found in a peaceful world. Originally for mixed voices, this new voicing is a welcome addition to the repertoire for treble voices. The lovely, lilting melody will appeal to choirs of all ages.
Never One Thing by May Erlewine/arr. Corie Brown, SSA with piano, cajon & body percussion
This is an anthem for women’s choirs and singers who have ever felt parts of themselves disowned or ostracized. Singer, conductor, and audience are invited to begin the process of reclaiming and healing those parts of themselves that are, at the same time, both vulnerable and powerful. This music is simple and folk-like with optional body percussion.
I’m On My Way arr. Anthony Trecek-King, SSA with piano
Rhythmic, driving, and intense, “I’m On My Way” is a rich selection for three-part treble choruses. A lesser-known spiritual speaking to themes of home, journey, and trial. Don’t miss this accessible and dynamic arrangement.
O Sing to the Lord by Dan Davison, SSAA with 4-hand piano
An SSAA/four-hand piano version of Davison’s original “O Sing to the Lord.” A strong yet accessible concert opener. Multi-rhythms enhance the excitement of this majestic concert or festival selection. Can also be performed with a downloadable two-hand piano score.
Soy un Coya Chiquitito arr. R. Eben Trobaugh, 2-part with piano
“Soy un Coya Chiquitito” is a traditional folk tune sung by children and families throughout Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. This arrangement is a heartwarming concert piece that celebrates music’s ability to repress melancholy feelings.
Find more for treble choirs on our website, or contact us to brainstorm more creative 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!