For High School Choir Friday, August 14, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
We are approaching an upcoming school year that will look very different from what we are used to in the past. Whether you are planning for in-person or remote instruction, the inherent value of music classes and ensembles remains the same! These Five Star Features are recommended by our experienced Choral Music Specialists, and can be used in any teaching situation this fall while offering the possibility of performance, either live or virtual.
Beyond the Years by Mark Patterson, SATB with piano
A song of hope for the future, “Beyond the Years” is especially appropriate for a moving-on ceremony or as a ballad in a contest set. The musically embracing setting of American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar’s words features effective choral writing by Mark Patterson that will flatter younger and intermediate-level ensembles.
Gloria by Rollo Dilworth, SATB with piano
Full of power and excitement, this traditional Latin text is a celebration. Equally at home on the concert stage or the sanctuary, this is a great concert opener or closer.
Dominus Vobiscum by Jacob Narverud, SATB a cappella
Jake Narverud’s setting of this prayer of peace is powerful! From the opening unison chant to the final “amens,” it is infused with interesting harmonies, meter, and rhythm. Choirs will feel empowered when learning and performing this piece, originally commissioned for director Christy Elsner’s Allegro con Brio Choir.
And None but Love (Evening Song) by Patrick Roszell, SATB with piano & optional oboe
“One thing of all dim things I know is true, the heart within me knows, and tells it you. So blind is life, so long at last is sleep, and none but Love to bid us laugh or weep.” Willa Cather’s reflective words rise to another level of awareness in this tender and deeply felt setting for concert or contest. Singers will easily master the choral parts, with one brief section of soprano divisi. Add the soulful oboe part to heighten the musical effect.
Hold Fast Your Dreams by Greg Gilpin, SSAA with piano
Selected lines from Louise Driscoll’s poem, set here in a vibrant and grand setting, will become your signature piece. Beginning with fanfare, the piece exalts the title then sings with long melodic and harmonic lines above a rhythmic and driving piano accompaniment. Throughout, the text is musically reflected in style and dynamics with a final and celebratory finish of “Hold fast your dreams within your heart!” Outstanding for concert, contest, graduation or any inspirational programming.
Dors, Dors, Petit Bebe arr. Victor C. Johnson, SSA with piano & optional violin
With a delicate melody, evocative harmonies, and an expressive accompaniment, this is a work that will showcase the musicality of your treble choir. Each verse is sung in Cajun French, which is easily learned, while the original middle section is in English. An optional violin part enhances the gentle mood. A pronunciation guide and translation are included.
The Rivers are Running Again by Amy F. Bernon, SSA with piano
Celebrate spring with this delightful Amy Bernon offering that is almost folk-like in nature. The colorful refrain brings to life the joy and rebirth of springtime: “Oh, spring has returned with a bursting of blossoms, with dancing and singing and days full of sun!
Desperta Ferro! (Rise, Iron!) by Christopher Fox, TTB with piano & optional percussion
“Desperta Ferro!” – literally, “Rise, iron!” in medieval Catalan – was one of the battle cries employed by the fierce Almogàvers as they struck the earth with their weapons, causing sparks to fly from the stones. Here, it becomes the main idea of a thrilling work for Tenor/Bass voices, piano, and optional percussion. Bravado and confidence surge with each additive cry of the powerful, newly composed text. Sure to spark a lifelong love of choral singing!
Gloria Alleluia by Emily Crocker, TTB with piano
A rhythmic keyboard introduction sets the stage for your young men who enter quietly and with intensity. A steady crescendo results in a glorious climax as the men sing “Gloria” over and over. This is a great song for your male chorus.
As always, Stanton’s is here to be your partner in music education through these trying times. Remember, 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!