Dynamite! New Pops for Middle School Friday, December 10, 2021
9 New Pop Tunes Arranged for Middle School Choirs
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recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Dynamite arr. Roger Emerson, SAB with piano and optional rhythm
The explosive quality of K-Pop global superstars BTS garner their songs airtime in commercials, movies, television and streaming platforms around the world. Take home Roger Emerson’s accessible choral arrangement today and keep the retro-disco sound of this #1 hit alive!
Be a Light arr. Tim Hayden, SAB with piano
“In a world full of hate, be a light.” These words strike a meaningful chord about our power to affect change in the world. And the memorable music of this 2020 track creates a moving ballad for our times. Recorded by Thomas Rhett, Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, and Keith Urban, this anthem of hope holds a significant message. Highly effective in virtual or live performance!
Dance Monkey arr. Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
Warning: if you are averse to earworms, best to skip this one. Endorsement: if you’re looking to delight and excite your 2-part singers, there’s nothing better! This Tones and I novelty has surpassed two billion streams on Spotify, set records on Shazam, and provided the soundtrack to millions of user-made videos on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms. Our SoundTrax accompaniment provides a buoyant synth-pop groove and just the right amount of support for younger singers. If you don’t know it, no worries, your kids do!
It’s All Right arr. Robert T. Gibson, 2-part/SSA with piano
Jon Batiste’s cover for Pixar’s “Soul” brings this feel-good Curtis Mayfield song to a whole new generation. Built on a soulful groove, jazzy twists, and an upbeat vibe, it’s everywhere! First made famous by The Impressions, a 60s group of which Mayfield was a member, this happy hit has stood the test of time, recorded by many diverse artists over the years. The arranger adds his own authentic touch with some gospel inflections and interjections. “It’s all right, have a good time, ’cause it’s all right!”
Rainbow arr. Cristi Cary Miller, 2-part with piano
What an outstanding and inspirational message to send to young, impressionable singers today: When all seems cloudy and gray, you must remember that “there’s always been a Rainbow hanging over your head.” Kacey Musgraves’ iconic song will stick with you long after the performance.
River of Dreams arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano and optional conga drums
This classic Billy Joel song was his greatest hit in the 1990s. The song borrows from gospel and spiritual music traditions while touching on issues of inner peace and the afterlife. The upbeat shuffle and lively accompaniment make this piece a lasting treasure!
What a Wonderful World arr. Andy Beck, 2-part with piano and optional ukulele or guitar
Here’s an inspired setting that faithfully retains the Hawaiian character of Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s cover. In this well-crafted treble version, both sections of the choir take a turn singing the classic melody, while the opposite part interjects with independent “aloha’s.” This easy-to-do treatment performs well with the light piano part, an optional ukulele/guitar, or the professional SoundTrax accompaniment. It’s a special arrangement that honors the depth of the original, the spirit of “Brother Iz,” and the beauty of the earth.
Blackbird arr. Audrey Snyder, TB with piano
Your TB groups will love performing this classic song by the Beatles in a well-crafted edition that accommodates the specific ranges of TB singers. It’s sure to be a choir and audience favorite!
I Make My Own Sunshine arr. Jack Zaino, 2-part with piano and optional American Sign Language
From Alyssa Bonagura’s 2012 album “Love Hard” comes this song celebrating perseverance and optimism. Upbeat and cheerful, American Sign Language (ASL) may be added to the presentation, if desired.
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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 and a former church choir director of 20 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. 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!