News & Views Saturday, April 27, 2024

Many Moods of Music for Concert Bands

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recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Boundless Hope by Mark Lortz, Grade 2
Starting with a mallet percussion ostinato, this contemporary ballad for developing bands would also work well as a reflective selection for more advanced ensembles or as a contrasting selection in concert or contest. Written to represent thoughts, feelings and emotions during one’s life, the composition is based on the Lydian mode, which naturally gives a sense of positivity, hopefulness, inspiration, and heavenly colors. Use this to introduce the study of modes, develop lyrical playing skills and as inspiration for all performers and listeners.

Dunbar 1838 by William Camphouse, Grade 2
In honor of naturalist John Muir, this energetic piece is akin to a traditional Scottish folk tune.

Into Battle! by Evan VanDoren, Grade 2
“Into Battle!” depicts an epic clash of opposing forces on a grand scale! Musicians will be eager to perform this exciting up-tempo work for young band, loosely inspired by Verdi’s “Requiem” and the ever-haunting “Dies Irae.” A mature and bold musical moment for your developing band!

Nebula by Randall Standridge, Grade 1.5-2
The vastness and mysteries of space are illustrated in this colorful work for young band. Lyrical melodies, expansive harmonies, and colorful orchestration are carefully balanced with achievability to create a piece that stands apart from the standard young band repertoire.

Return to Camelot by Scott Watson, Grade 2
Camelot refers to an idyllic time and place, lost to lore and legend, but which continues on in the hearts, minds, and stories of so many. When our imagination and sense of adventure allow it, we return to Camelot, with its gallant knights of the Round Table, acts of chivalry, and even moments of magic! This exciting piece by Scott Watson – with its driving tempo, insistent rhythms, modal harmonies, and glimpses of beauty – musically transports the listener back to King Arthur’s Camelot.

Skybridge Suite by Robert Sheldon, Grade 2
This delightful three-movement suite begins with a bright and bold Fanfare in 4/4 time. The second movement is a poignant lyrical Interlude in 3/4 time which features a trumpet solo. The third movement is a jaunty march in cut time that alternates between major and minor tonalities, giving it a bit of a quirky attitude.

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About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Measure Me, Sky! by Jonathan Reid, SATB with piano
SATB voices and piano combine in floating melodic lines and resonant harmonies, lending an ethereal quality to this delightful piece in the new Beckenhorst Press Concert Series for school, community, and college choirs, edited by Dan Forrest. The universe, our relationship to it, and our communication with it come to life, rising and falling as we anticipate the measurement of our joy by the weight of a word or a thought. Effective for youth or adult choirs, this setting frees the imagination to soar for singers and listeners alike.

The Birds’ Lullaby by Sarah Quartel, SATB a cappella
This a cappella setting of evocative words by E. Pauline Johnson is immediately appealing, with its playful, swinging syncopations and dancing scat accompaniment.

Flight by Craig Carnelia/arr. Ryan Murphy, SSA with piano and optional string quartet
“Flight” has long been an incredible and well-loved work by songwriter Craig Carnelia. This dynamic treble arrangement is a great choice for honor choirs, festivals, conferences, and concert performances.

Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Douglas E. Wagner, TB with piano
“Here he lies where he longed to be; home is the sailor, home from the sea, and the hunter home from the hill.” Timeless words from Robert Louis Stevenson are set with expressive vocal lines and a richly woven piano accompaniment. Though scored for only two vocal parts, it produces a mature and full choral sound.

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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!

recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist

Aspire by Bob Phillips, Grade 3
Bob Phillips was truly inspired when he wrote Aspire! It is absolutely beautiful and modern (but not far out) and a soul soaring experience to play and to hear. The gorgeous, flowing melodies will keep everyone satisfied. The mixed meter using a constant quarter note pulse, the accidentals and the shifting in all parts except 2nd violins, will keep your students continuously challenged.

Brave Spirit by Randall Standridge, Grade 3
Inspired by Adeline Yen Mah’s autobiography “Chinese Cinderella,” this spirited and unique string work incorporates a pentatonic scale to help paint a picture of a young Chinese woman who struggles finding acceptance in a primarily patriarchal society. With your concert master as the protagonist and principal cello as her grandfather, a conversation ensues that evolves into a joyful dance, then the reflection of inner peace that the author strived for. With its powerful story, your students and audience will surely be enthralled.

Colors of Home by Alan Lee Silva, Grade 3
A loving portrait of life growing up in the pastoral foothills of Northern California, “Colors of Home” conveys a warm Americana feeling, featuring beautifully nuanced melodic themes and carefully crafted harmonies.

Possibilities... by Brian Balmages, Grade 3
Take your ensemble to the next musical level with this inspirational work based on a powerful quote by Russian-American novelist Ayn Rand. Scored for strings and piano, the long, lyrical lines remind us that we should never give up our dreams – they do exist, and they are possible. An emotional and stunning masterpiece.

Trailblaze by Rick Hirsch, Grade 3.5
The sweeping cinematic sounds of this energetic work will immediately grasp your audience’s attention and your students will be excited to dig in and experience the fun groove of the piece! Written with a slight jazz flavor, the music is a welcome departure from standard string repertoire and is a phenomenal change of pace for your next program.

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About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

Breaking Through by Brian Balmages, Grade 3.5-4 Concert Band
Break down barriers with this energetic, joyous celebration of creativity and possibility! The incessant rhythmic drive combines with a flurry of woodwind flourishes and heroic brass fanfares, resulting in a high-energy barnburner that is destined to bring down the house!

Centennium by Brian Balmages, Grade 4.5 Concert Band
Heroic, sweeping melodies form the basis of this celebratory work highlighting achievement and longevity. The constant rhythmic drive is augmented by soaring countermelodies and engaging percussion. Several peaks and valleys culminate in a powerful final fanfare that brings the work to a thrilling conclusion.

A Scottish Festival by Brian Balmages, Grade 1 Concert Band
This spirited work depicts a parade in Scotland from a spectator’s viewpoint. Based on the popular folk song “Aiken Drum,” the piece layers various elements to create the iconic sound of Scottish pipes and drums. Original music intertwines with Celtic sounds as the parade reaches its peak with a full battery of percussion contributing to the joyous atmosphere.

Wings to the Mind by Brian Balmages, Grade 0.5 Concert Band
This fanfare-style work celebrates the famous quote by Plato in which he states “Music… gives wings to the mind and flight to the imagination….” Despite using only six notes and basic rhythms, the work sounds shockingly mature and powerful. A strong, celebratory work for your youngest musicians!

Find more from Brian Balmages on our website, and shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Inspire the next group of students to play in the orchestra

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recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist

Apache Peak by Susan Day, Grade 1.5
Perfect for advanced beginning orchestra, “Apache Peak” by Susan H. Day, takes its title from the Apache Peak, the second highest mountain peak (13,441 ft) in the Indian Peaks Wilderness of Colorado. This piece tries to capture the excitement and wonder of the breathtaking mountain scenery with melodies for all, easy rhythms, terraced dynamics, and an exciting conclusion.

Chaps ‘n Spurs by Susan Day, Grade 2
This upbeat Western themed grade 2 piece features lively melodies for all, with teaching opportunities to reinforce accents, hooked bows, pizzicato, 2 note slurs, lifts, cello divisi, slides, dynamics, and easy rhythms. Written in the key of G throughout, the opening theme is announced by all the upper strings in unison. Care should be taken not to make the notes too short and choppy. This fun and happy piece is perfect for any performance occasion!

Enduring the Storm by Lucas Shogren, Grade 1.5
A slow and gentle opening melody delivers a feeling of hope and perseverance before giving way to a strong, driving theme of unwavering determination that builds to an intense and exciting ending. Developing string players will have the opportunity to study a wide variety of articulations, dynamics, and bowings. An excellent choice to open or conclude a program.

Fight the Resistance! by Tanner Otto, Grade 1.5
“Fight the Resistance!” by Tanner Otto is an exciting and dynamic march-style piece and was written to highlight the skill of playing closer to the bridge. In order to play the sustained melodic lines forte, students must “fight the resistance” of the bridge by changing their bowing lane. It also reinforces the low-2 finger pattern (A minor) with a few accidentals. The cellos have very accessible shifting, and all sections get to play the melody. Great for working on staccato and accents.

Luminosity by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 3.5
Brilliant, fresh and bright! Newcomer Liam Ramsey-White has created a piece that is truly luminous. Work on bell-tone techniques and harmonics as well as mixed-meter in this accessible grade 3 piece for string orchestra. The piece uniquely ends on a “fade-out” effect that will spice up any concert program.

Spy Rock by Eric B. David, Grade 0.5
With a driving rhythm, catchy melody, and rocking drum set, this thrilling original work will have musicians and concertgoers alike moving in their seats! Beginning players will have the opportunity to study modal tonality, open harmonies, dynamics, and pizzicato, all using only the notes E, B, A, B, and D. Sure to be a favorite at any beginning string orchestra’s first concert!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist

Cascade by Bert Ligon, Grade 3.5
Imagine the basic form of Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm” with chord changes and style as if James Taylor was accompanying old-time fiddlers, and you have this cool, original jazz tune. Both written solos and a spot for improvisation are included.

Little Sunflower by Freddie Hubbard/arr. Bert Ligon, Grade 2
Although associated with the bebop and hard bop jazz movements, trumpeter Freddie Hubbard brought a sweet delicacy to the gem, “Little Sunflower,” which Bert Ligon smooths out for jazz orchestra. A perfect introduction to jazz harmony for middle school orchestras, this moderate ballad brings non-swing syncopation easily under their fingers with piano and drum set accompaniment. Included are optional written solos for all parts, as well as improv parts for first violin and cello. Laid back and cool!

Out of Nowhere by Edward Heyman & Johnny Green/arr. John Caponegro, Grade 3
How often does an orchestra get to experience a bossa nova? Now, this arrangement gives them a chance. This Latin style has been nicely arranged for strings by John Caponegro. Optional solos for all instruments are provided and the rhythm section, while optional, will be a great addition to the ensemble, and will assist players in executing the style of the piece.

Technostrings by Julie Lyonn Lieberman, Grade 3
Drawing from African, Cuban and Indonesian musical influences, this modern original features mesmerizing world beat grooves built on undulating melodic motifs. The piece is based on the C mixolydian scale with an opportunity for soloing, and can be performed with a fun backup track or with student-created acoustic or digital loops.

Tico Tico by Zequinha de Abreu/arr. Bob Lipton & J. Cameron Law, Grade 3+
Perhaps the most famous example of Brazilian Choro music, this piece is made accessible to high school players in this sterling arrangement featuring a whistle and a section that uses strings as percussion instruments.

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About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Take on any of these 7 masterworks with your choir

#makethemostmusic #dedicationtoeducation #programwiththepros #sheetmusicspecialists #bewherethemusicis #stantonssheetmusic #sheetmusic #musiceducation #musicteacher #musiced #musiceducator #musiceducationmatters #conducting #musicdirector #music #columbusohio #columbusmusic #columbusmusicians #columbusmakesmusic

Dona Nobis Pacem (from Heiligmesse) by F.J. Haydn/arr. Patrick M. Liebergen, SATB with piano
Taken from Haydn’s masterwork “Heiligmesse,” this shortened edition has also been transposed to make it more accessible. The setting of the compact Latin text explores many of the conventions of the Classical period, including energized homophonic choral lines, structured musical form, and stark dynamic contrasts.

Tipitin by Mariá Grever/arr. Raul Dominguez, SATB a cappella
Written by Mexico’s first well-known female composer, María Grever, this vals Mexicano (Mexican waltz) makes a charming a cappella work for outstanding choirs. The textured setting offers well-conceived choral parts throughout, sometimes using lower voices to provide a dance-like underscore for the lilting melody. A full translation and pronunciation notes aid in the understanding and mastery of an entirely Spanish text, which recounts a story of new love. Feature an agile soprano on the jaunty descant near the end.

Cantate Deo (from Water Music) by G.F. Handel/arr. Becki Slagle Mayo, TB with piano and optional trumpet
The Hornpipe movement from Handel’s “Water Music Suite” has been creatively adapted for voices, complete with an original text: “Cantate Deo… Sing alleluia… lift your voice and sing with joy forevermore.” With its contrapuntal texture, imitative vocal lines, and piano and optional B-flat trumpet accompaniment, this familiar melody sets up a concert or festival selection that really shines.

O Bella Fusa by Orlando diLasso/arr. Russell Robinson, 3-part mixed a cappella with optional piano
Originally composed for SATB mixed voices, this Three-Part Mixed setting of the well-known madrigal, with Italian text throughout, may be sung a cappella or accompanied. A fantastic period piece!

The Trout (Die Forelle) by Franz Schubert/arr. Douglas E. Wagner, 3-part mixed with piano
You may have studied this beloved Schubert art song in voice lessons, and now you can share it with developing choirs in a well-constructed, approachable arrangement. The choice of key fits comfortably within range and the Romantic era harmonies are easy to hear. Whether there are two or four hands at the piano, listeners will be hooked by the rippling water and leaping fish in the playful accompaniment. Concerned about the German words? A rhyming English translation provides a charming option. Listen to Fischer-Dieskau’s iconic recording as an introduction to the piece or an extension of learning.

Surge, Propera Amica Mea by Raffaela (Vittoria) Aleotti/ed. Jami Lercher, SATB double choir a cappella
A late 16th-century motet by Rafaella Aleotti, a composer believed to be the first woman to have sacred music appear in print. Using text from Song of Solomon, Aleotti employs elements of both Renaissance and Baroque styles to convey the poetic idea of “Arise, my love.”

Jubilate by W.A. Mozart/arr. John Leavitt, SSA with piano
This is an excellent example of Mozart’s choral writing. Leavitt’s editorial markings enhance the musicality of the work.

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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!

The Encore! Series edited by Jane McGrath is perfect for students who have completed their method book studies and are preparing to perform more advanced repertoire. Each volume includes music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary eras, and editor’s commentary.

Encore! Book 1
Titles include: “Sonata in D Minor, K. 90d” (Scarlatti), “Sonata in G Major, K. 431” (Scarlatti), “Air in G Major (from Suite XIV)” (Handel), “Sonata in G Major” (Cimarosa), “Sonatina in C Major, Op. 55, No. 1” (Kuhlau), “Sonatina in D Major, Op. 36, No. 6” (Clementi), “Six Ecossaises, WoO 83” (Beethoven), “Song Without Words (‘Faith’), Op. 102, No. 6” (Mendelssohn), “The Boys’ Round Dance, Op. 36, No. 2” (Gade), “To Julie (from Sonata for the Young) Op. 118a” (Schumann), “Mignon, Op. 68, No. 35” (Schumann), “Fantasy Dance, Op. 125, No. 5” (Schumann), “Prelude in B Minor, Op. 28, No. 6” (Chopin), “Mazurka in F Major, Op. 68, No. 3 (Posthumous)” (Chopin), “Mazurka in A Minor, Op. 67, No. 4 (Posthumous)” (Chopin), “Berceuse, Op. 109, No. 7” (Burgmüller), “Velocity, Op. 109, No. 10” (Burgmüller), “Third Gymnopédie” (Satie), “Bagatelle, Op. 5, No. 1” (Tcherepnin), “A Warlike Dance, Op. 27, No. 27” (Kabalevsky), “Little Leopard on the Swing (from Children’s Album, Book II)” (Khachaturian), and “Two Ladies Gossiping (from Children’s Album, Book II)” (Khachaturian).

Encore! Book 2
Titles include: “Prelude in E Major, BWV 937)” (Bach), “Invention in A Minor, BWV 784” (Bach), “Sonata No. 6 in C Minor (III Presto)” (Pescetti), “Fantasia No. 5 in F” (Telemann), “Sonata in G Major, Hob. XVI/6 (IV Allegro molto)” (Haydn), “Sonata in A Major, KV 331 (III Alla Turca)” (Mozart), “Bagatelle in D Major, Op. 119, No. 3” (Beethoven), “Bagatelle in F Major, Op. 33, No. 3” (Beethoven), “Valse Noble, D. 969 (Op. 77), No. 1” (Schubert), “Prelude, Op. 43, No. 1” (Glière), “The Musical Clock, Op. 11, No. 6” (Nielsen), “From Foreign Lands and Places, Op. 15, No. 1” (Schumann), “A Curious Story, Op. 15, No. 2” (Schumann), “Important Event, Op. 15, No. 6” (Schumann), “Arietta, Op. 12, No. 1” (Grieg), “Mazurka in A Minor, Op. 68, No. 2 (Posthumous)” (Chopin), “Waltz in B Minor, Op. 69, No. 2 (Posthumous)” (Chopin), “Tarantella” (Beaumont), “March, Op. 65, No. 10” (Prokofiev), “Prelude in A Minor, Op. 38, No. 2” (Kabalevsky), “Variations on a Slovakian Folksong” (Kabalevsky), Alla Tarantella, Op. 39, No. 2” (MacDowell), and “Sonatina (I Allegro giocoso)” (Khatchaturian).

Encore! Book 3
Titles include: “Prelude in E Minor, BWV 941” (Bach), “Prelude in F Major, BWV 928” (Bach), “Invention in B-flat Major, BWV 785” (Bach), “Capriccio, K. 63” (Scarlatti), “The Cuckoo” (Daquin), “Sonata in A-flat Major, Hob. XVI/42 (I Moderato)” (Haydn), “Sonata in E Major, Hob. XVI/13 (III Presto)” (Haydn), “Sonata in D Major, Op. 4. No. 1 (I Allegro assai)” (Clementi), “Sonata in F Minor (‘Bonn’), WoO 47, No. 2 (I Largetto maestoso-Allegro assai)” (Beethoven), “Song without Words (‘Regrets’) Op. 19, No. 2” (Mendelssohn), “Mazurka in A Minor, Op. 7, No. 2” (Chopin), “Nocturne in C-sharp Minor, Op. Posthumous” (Chopin), “The Elf, Op. 124, No. 17” (Schumann), “Scherzino, Op. 124, No. 3” (Schumann), “Burla, Op. 124, No. 12” (Schumann), “Miniature in C Minor, Op. 62, No. 15” (Kirchner), “The Top, Op. 11, No. 2” (Nielsen), “May Song, Op. 1, No. 3” (Granados), “Notturno, Op. 54, No. 4” (Grieg), “Postludium, Op. 13, No. 10” (Dohnányi), “Bagatelle in E-flat, Op. 5, No. 7” (Tcherepnin), “Golliwogg’s Cake Walk” (Debussy), “Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum” (Debussy), and “Sonatina (I ‘Bagpipers’)” (Bartók).

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Be a Light arr. Tim Hayden, SATB 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!

Forever Young arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional combo
Covered countless times by artists around the globe, Bob Dylan’s seminal work was originally composed as a lullaby for his eldest son Jesse, bestowing wishes and blessings upon him. As a choral, “Forever Young” works especially well as a adulatory song for graduations!

All the Way Home by Sarah Quartel, SATB with piano
With a text by the composer, this work was originally inspired by members of the Radcliffe Ladies’ Choir and their motto “friendship through singing.” The lilting vocal lines are subtly underpinned by a delicate piano accompaniment, and the opening performance direction, “contentedly rocking,” describes the overall nature of the piece: peaceful, content, and easy-going.

I Will Remember You (Medley) arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
Here is the perfect graduation medley. “I Will Remember You”, “I Hope You Dance” and “I’ve Had the Time of My life” reflect on all of the best memories. There are logical places to feature your best soloists or cover these moments with the ensemble. End of year concerts are also great places for these great pop songs.

I Remember by Sarah Quartel, SAB with piano
“I Remember” sets a text reflecting on the wonder of the natural world and the people who shape our lives. The stirring melody calls to mind the folksong tradition, and is underpinned by a gently flowing piano accompaniment. The middle section brings a contrast of tonality, with the altos and baritones accompanying the sopranos’ melodic line, before the beguiling melody of the opening returns to bring the setting to a poignant close.

Memories arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano
Maroon 5 has perfected their pop song template – a catchy tune, memorable hook, and genuine, relatable lyrics. Toss in hints of Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and you have an undeniable hit. This well-crafted arrangement sets a few accompanimental guitar figures in the voices, and offers some subtle text adaptations for all occasions. It’s a perfect choice any time, but especially effective for end-of-year events, marking a changing era with heartfelt emotion.

Seeking Light by Brandon Williams, SATB with piano
With a text inspired by the full life of a relative and music that is lush this is an uplifting anthem for community and college choirs. Featured at the virtual 2021 ACDA National conference, collegiate reading session, this inspirational anthem will brighten any concert.

The Gift to Sing by Marianne Forman, SSAA with piano
Winner of Honorable Mention in the 2020 King’s Singers New Music Prize, Marianne Forman’s sparkling music sets James Weldon Johnson’s text about singing through adversity: “…and if the way grows darker still, shadowed by Sorrow’s somber wing / with glad defiance in my throat, I pierce the darkness with a note, and sing… / …no nights are dark, no days are long, while in my heart there swells a song, / and I can sing.” Deeply encouraging, and suitable for a variety of performance situations, especially as choirs work through the events of 2020.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Come Fly with Me arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
Written for Frank Sinatra in 1958, this classic by Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen is as fresh today as it was when it was first released. This easy swing style makes everyone feel better while at the same time giving a little geography lesson. Stylish and jazzy.

I Only Have Eyes for You arr. Mark Hayes, SATB with piano and optional combo
This swingin’ standard made Rolling Stones’ “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list and has been recorded by various artists from The Flamingos and Art Garfunkel to Michael Bublé. This big-band style arrangement includes a dash of scat singing toward the end and plenty of jazzy syncopations along the way. Besides the obvious meaning of the title, a current-day twist hints at smizing over a face mask (wink, wink).

Fly Me to the Moon arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
“Fly Me to the Moon,” written in 1954, has become a part of the Great American Songbook. Not surprisingly, Buzz Aldrin played the song when he stepped onto the moon’s surface in 1969. Many singers have recorded the tune, but Frank Sinatra’s version has become the standard for this immortal song of love and admiration.

Smile arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
Arranged by Roger Emerson, “Smile” is a timeless classic arranged especially for treble choirs and developing mixed voice choirs. The chords are lush and sing easily with an emphasis on phrasing and line. Students and audiences alike will appreciate this beautiful arrangement.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!