A Change Has Come: Creative Programming for Social Consciousness Monday, March 07, 2022
Positive musical messages to program
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recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
A Change Has Come by Rollo Dilworth & Jim Papoulis, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
A choral conductor’s dream pairing of Jim Papoulis and Rollo Dilworth yields this amalgamation of rhythm, texture and choral part-writing that practically sings itself. And with a positive message that speaks to innovation and truth, this song is the ultimate opener for your concert or festival!
If I Had a Hammer arr. Craig Hella Johnson, SATB divisi a cappella with bongo drum & cymbal
Craig Hella Johnson has become well known for “outside the box” programming, composing and arranging. Here is another great example. This folk song written by Bob Seeger and Lee Hays in 1949 in support of the Progressive movement and later made popular by Peter, Paul and Mary is here arranged with a driving motif “If I Had A Hammer” by SATB divisi chorus. Hand percussion underpins this motif and the melody floats above.
What’s Going On arr. Rollo Dilworth, SSATB a cappella with optional string bass & cajón
Rollo Dilworth’s arrangement of Marvin Gaye’s landmark title track from the #1 album of all time (according to Rolling Stone) should be at the top of every choir’s wishlist. Funk and soul wrapped up in a timeless protest song – what more could you want?
Stand Up (from Harriet) arr. Téa Douglas, SSAA a cappella with body percussion
The Douglas family, inspiring us all to do good and love someone (DGLS), have recorded this extremely powerful arrangement of the 2020 Oscar-winning Best Original Song from “Harriet.” Premiered at the 2021 ACDA Virtual National Conference, this rendition cuts straight through to the heart.
No Color by Stacey V. Gibbs & Shawn Kirchner, SATB divisi with piano
This is a monumental work from composers Stacey Gibbs and Shawn Kirchner. The lyrics challenge ideas of racism and discrimination while the music combines jazz and traditional choral techniques. “No Color” offers choirs the chance to declare that no color can come between us.
Edges of the Night by Mark Patterson, SSAA with piano and optional xylophone
“Edges of the Night” sheds light on the crisis facing hundreds of thousands of families who have fled Central America in recent years to find safety and refuge. Add the xylophone to increase the intensity of sound.
One Million Voices by Brian Tate, SATB with piano
This original gospel-style piece uses a constantly growing, repeating melody to build strong energy and emotion throughout. It was inspired by the courage of individuals who are willing to take risks to come forward, speak their truths, and stand up for human rights. Easy to learn with a powerful message.
We Shall Overcome arr. Shelton Ridge Love, TTBB a cappella
A strong, resolute setting of the familiar civil rights “marching song” vividly calls to mind the images which add depth of meaning and emotion to the notes sung. From the distant beginning to the powerful final statement, this arrangement calls us to stand with, and for, all those in the long fight for justice. This TTBB a cappella setting can be sung in any location.
Secret for the Mad arr. George Chung, SSAB with piano
British singer, songwriter Dodie says “I wrote this for a friend who I heard was going through a rough time. Today, though, I sang it for myself.” This song offers a proactive opportunity for you and your students to discuss ways to deal with worry and anxiety. This is a powerful message set to an equally powerful melody. This is the first in an exciting new series curated by Carrie Tennant.
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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!