Creative Programming: Around the World Wednesday, March 17, 2021
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Bonk’ Abaphandle arr. Michael Barrett & Mbuso Ndlovu, SATB a cappella with body percussion and optional djembe
“Bonk’apaphable” is a tremendously fun arrangement by South African musicians Michael Barrett and Mbuso Ndlovu. This celebratory isiZulu song is a quick learn that will pay dividends for audiences and choirs! Add percussion, clapping, and ululations to make the most of this work.
Suliko arr. Brent Wells, SATB divisi with piano
“Suliko” is perhaps the most well-known folk song from the country of Georgia. The poem speaks of lost loved ones who can still be found in “the rose’s bloom, the nightingale’s song, and the star’s shining light.” Lovely vocal writing with a beautiful and supportive piano accompaniment.
Scarborough Fair arr. Michael Higgins, SSA with piano
Higgins’s setting of this popular folk song is simple and wistful, particularly well-suited for children’s and youth choirs. With delicate quaver flourishes, the piano accompaniment flows gently alongside the vocal lines, creating suspensions that reflect the mysterious demands of the narrator. Originally published in The Oxford Book of Flexible Choral Songs for three-part choir.
Artza Alinu arr. Earlene Rentz, SATB with piano
Earlene Rentz has arranged this traditional Israeli dance song quoting the Round “Toembai.” Sure to be the piece the audience will find themselves humming for days to come!
Hava Nagila (Let Us Rejoice) arr. Lon Beery, TTB with piano
An awesome selection for training newly changed voices from a trusted expert in the field. This traditional Hebrew song of celebration has been smartly set for young men’s voices, with each part staying within a narrow tessitura. Your guys will be motivated by the fun of a tempo that grows faster and faster throughout! Flexible voicing options allow for doubling of the melody at the octave.
J’entends le Moulin (I Hear the Windmill) arr. Emily Crocker, SA(T)B with piano
Now available in SA(T)B voicing. Hear the steady ticka-tacka of the mill wheel in this brisk setting of a French Canadian folksong. Use the pronunciation guide on the VoiceTrax CD or on the inside cover to practice the French lyrics, this selection is easily learned and fun to sing!
Üsküdar arr. Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano and optional oboe, finger cymbals, tambourine & dumbek
This energetic setting of the Turkish folk song utilizes repetition so that the short Turkish text, once learned, becomes easier with each repetition of the chorus. The tempo increases as the arrangement builds, creating a whirling and exciting effect. Incorporate the optional oboe, finger cymbals, tambourine, and dumbek for added authenticity. A pronunciation guide and translation are provided.
Down by the Salley Gardens arr. Craig Courtney, SATB with piano
Craig Courtney’s richly conceived setting of the William Butler Yeats poem is an impressive concert or contest selection with easily managed divisi in the soprano, tenor, and bass parts. Based on a traditional Irish tune, this work is full of emotion and musical expression with contrast between the choral textures and free-flowing accompaniment throughout.
Bonny Bobby Shafto arr. Greg Gilpin, SAB with piano
From northern England comes this delightful folk song that works well for both mixed and treble choirs. A bright bouncy piano accompaniment rhythmic vocal lines and humorous text create a lively arrangement that’s fast and fun. Your singers will love discovering the frolicking character of Bobby Shafto!
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!