The Merry Bells of Christmas: For Elementary Choir Wednesday, October 13, 2021
3 Holiday Songs for Your Young Choir
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recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
The Merry Bells of Christmas arr. Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano and optional glockenspiel
This bright and festive Christmas selection features an original melody and lyrics paired with the traditional English carol “Ding Dong! Merrily on High.” The long, melismatic “Gloria” in the refrain of the original carol has been divided into three shorter phrases, which makes the passage more accessible for young singers. Include the optional glockenspiel for added sparkle!
The Candle Is a Symbol by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
An emblem that transcends cultures, religions, and time periods, the flickering candle offers a message of joy, hope, and peace that can reach every human heart. Start with the spark of a single voice on the opening solo, and then light your choir’s inner flame when the entire group joins. Simple, with a folk-like quality; artful, as the composer explores dark versus light, major versus minor.
Arre, Borriquito (Hurry, Little Donkey) arr. Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano and optional percussion
Young singers will adore singing this Spanish carol and exploring tempo with all the wonderful musical opportunities it brings. With a piano and optional percussion accompaniment that reflects the sound of a donkey syncopated vocals increase in tempo making a novel and wonderful multicultural selection for the holidays.
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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.
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!