Creative Programming: World Music for Choir Friday, May 29, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Two Asian Folk Songs arr. Ruth Morris Gray, SATB a cappella
Perform this pair of authentic Asian folk songs separately or as a world music set. Singers will embrace imitating percussion instruments in the Chinese “Flower Drum Song,” and adore echoing the lyrical pentatonic tune of “High Green Mountain” from Taiwan. Evolving ostinatos create the sense of accompaniment within the context of both a cappella settings. Pronunciation guides are included, making it easy to sing in the original language, in English, or a combination of both.
Tongo arr. Greg Gilpin, SATB a cappella with percussion
Here’s a traditional canoe song from Polynesia that sounds quite impressive with a cappella voices, handclaps, and percussion instruments. The call-and-response format of Greg’s well-designed arrangement suggests people communicating from canoe to canoe as they travel between islands.
A-Fishin’ We Will Go! arr. Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano & optional fiddle
Featuring two Canadian folk songs: “I’s the B’y” from Newfoundland and “Going Over the Sea” from Nova Scotia, this spirited setting spins the tale of a boy growing up to become a fisherman like his father. Incorporating the violin (fiddle) part enhances the rollicking, dance-like mood of the piece that is offset by a slower, reflective middle section. A rousing accelerando at the end brings the song to a boisterous, fun conclusion. Boys will especially enjoy performing this work. A Learning Resource Page is included.
Baraka Na Wewe by Victor C. Johnson, 3-part mixed a cappella with djembe
This joyous and rhythmic celebration of hope, joy and peace features a middle section with independent vocal lines, which allows for easily accessible harmonic layering. The only accompanying instrument is the lively djembe part that lends an authentic African flavor. A pronunciation guide and translation are included.
Nanuma arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano
Based on a folk song from Ghana, additional melodies and harmonies are added to make this a stylish, swing anthem. This is a happy song of welcome and will make a wonderful, upbeat opener to your concert.
Pirulito arr. Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano & optional percussion
Meaning “lollipop,” Pirulito is a traditional children’s song from Brazil. The Portuguese text is simple to learn and fun to sing along with the addition of the percussion included in the choral. A great multicultural selection for 2-part choirs.
Hashivenu arr. Michael Ryan, SSA with piano
The plaintive, soul-searching melody of this beloved Israeli folk song supports a traditional text drawn from Lamentations. Voices begin in unison and ease into simple harmony before developing into a three-part round and concluding with a gentle, ethereal coda. A delicate, independent piano part helps create an ever-flowing feel. Beautifully suited to women s voices in range, tonal color, and musicality.
Sisi Kushangilia (We Will Be Glad) by Victor C. Johnson, SSA a cappella with percussion
Exuberant rhythmic energy abounds in this African-style original! The Swahili text of only four words translates: “We will dance! We will sing! We will be glad!” The only accompanying instruments are shaker, hand drum and djembe, which add an authentic flavor and texture to this celebratory, multicultural selection.
Zum Gali Gali arr. Dan Miner, TBB with piano and clarinet with optional violin & tambourine
This setting of the Israeli folk song offers developing TB choirs a different take on the classic round. It offers rhythmic challenges along with some chromatic maneuverings, yet employs appropriate vocal ranges for maturing singers.
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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!