JOY! Creative Programming for Developing Treble Choir Friday, January 22, 2021
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Rise Up, My Love by Tom Merrill, SA with piano
The approach to this wedding text is joyful rather than romantic, the vocal parts approachable but interesting thanks to rhythmic interplay and a variety of textures. The piano part adds to the dance-like mood.
Joy (from The Song Maker) by Thomas Juneau, SA with piano
“Joy” is taken from the three-song set by Thomas Juneau, “The Song Maker.” This exuberant work captures the euphoria one feels at the joy of being loved. A rhythmic, yet unhurried, piano accompaniment enhances beautiful and soaring vocal lines. Will work well for young treble choirs, but is sophisticated enough to work for all levels.
O Wind by Michael John Trotta, 2-part with piano
You can hear the gentle breezes passing by in this charming setting of the playful Robert Louis Stevenson poem, in which a child talks with the wind. Independent melodic writing in both voice parts sets your singers up for success. An expressive treble feature for choirs of any age.
The Fox arr. Blake Richter & Taylor Shaeffer, SA with piano and optional mandolin, guitar & drums
“The Fox” is a fun, playful, folk song written for treble voices of all ages. The story of a family of sly foxes, this energetic, engaging, and playful arrangement will delight both your singers and your audiences.
Un Poquito Cantas (A Little Singing) arr. Dave & Jean Perry, SSA with piano
“Take a little singing, and a little dancing, add a little ‘le-lo-la,’ like the happy yellow bird.” This sprightly Spanish folk song is reminiscent of a singing canary, and is a delight to perform! Lighthearted lyrics in both English and Spanish (with pronunciation guide) are included, and suggestions for an optional Latin percussion ensemble lead the way to a lively tango.
When the Boat Comes In arr. Cristi Cary Miller, 2-part (opt descant) with piano and flute
This accessible Northumbrian folk tune includes a flute part, which is essential for creating the mood in this breezy and charming arrangement by Cristi Cary Miller.
No matter what your in-person or remote teaching requires, 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!