Creative Programming: For Tenor/Bass Choir Friday, May 22, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Anvil Chorus (from Il Trovatore) by Giuseppe Verdi/arr. Jonny Priano, TBB with piano and optional anvils
This operatic gem from Il Trovatore is often referred to as “The Gypsy Chorus.” The drama and playfulness of the original orchestration are well preserved in the piano writing, and Verdi’s glorious melody and substantial harmony remain intact in both voicings. As a special touch, the arranger has included parts for two percussive anvils. An IPA guide is included for the Italian text.
If I Can Sing by Lon Beery, T(T)B with piano
“If I can sing, I still am free.” Sara Teasdale’s 1917 poem “Refuge” is certain to resonate with anyone who possesses an appreciation for singing. This lush setting plays out across a shifting palette of harmonic colors and choral textures, and is offered in wonderfully adaptable alternate voicings that address the needs of choirs at any level.
Let the Music Fill Your Soul by Jacob Narverud, TTBB with piano and optional F horn
This anthem, originally scored for mixed choir, is energetic with a text that is relevant to our music classrooms. The horn part soars above the piano and the singers and the driving rhythms of the piano create excitement.
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.
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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!