News & Views Friday, April 19, 2024

recommended by Eric Stratton and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists

New Chances, New Dances by Richard Meyer, Grade 3
This lively rondo begins with the famous theme from Paganini’s “Caprice #24,” reworked into a 5/4 dance with a cool vibe. Woven into the rondo form are three original dances (a tango, a country dance and a waltz) – each a musical adventure of its own. The colorful orchestration by Richard Meyer gives every member of your ensemble an unforgettable and joyful experience while the wide variety of playing styles and musical challenges make “New Chances, New Dances” an imaginative selection – the perfect choice for contest or festival.

Metal Rhythmico by Kirt Mosier, Grade 5
Mosier has done it again! Powerful and vigorous from measure one to the end, the rhythms are patterned after heavy metal rock. Chord structures are rich and complex. The solo violin part is designed to showcase an advanced/professional musician. Audiences will remember this incredible work long after the performance has concluded.

Danse Nègre (from African Suite, Op. 35, No. 4) by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor/arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 5
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was extraordinary in using themes from African American folk music, and his success contributed to the empowerment of African American musicians and composers who came after him. The final movement from a larger work, this high energy piece is one spectacular example of Coleridge-Taylor’s talent. A perfect concert closer!

Midnight Mischief by Doug Spata, Grade 1
Beginning string students will have a diabolically good time with this all-pizzicato selection. Gleefully sinister melodies pass between all sections and simple quarter and half note accompaniment parts help keep everyone together. The optional piano accompaniment sets the pace with even 8th notes, helping young players subdivide their rhythms. Part independence and note range are minimized while doubling and repetition are emphasized, making this an easy piece for kids to master. “Midnight Mischief” by Doug Spata is a fun piece that kids will love to play while supporting essential ensemble playing and listening skills.

Night Blooming Jasmine by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 3
With French-inspired harmonies, this elegant piece is written in the style of the siciliano – a pastoral dance or song in 6/8. Like the delicate and sweet fragrance of the flower that opens in the darkness of evening, the theme unfolds gently with cascading chords and gentle, legato phrases. Every section has the opportunity to play with a full and expressive sound, creating the atmosphere of a peaceful garden at twilight.

Carnival Overture by Antonin Dvorák/arr. Carrie Lane Gruselle, Grade 3.5
The energy and excitement of this thrilling overture is exquisitely captured in this approachable setting for intermediate orchestras! Equally suited as an opener or closer (and everything in between!), your students will shine without being pushed too much technically. An incredible balance between the grandeur of the original and the pedagogical needs of students.

Sunday Afternoon by R. Scott Whittington, Grade 2
A whimsical piece that appeals to all ages. Its bouncy rhythms and upbeat melodies evoke the feeling of wind rushing through our hair or the laughter of family members as games are played and memories are shared. The piece is targeted at advancing junior and intermediate string ensembles and works for young and mature players alike. One of the charms of this piece is the constant tug-of-war between triplets and the straight eighth notes. With its lilting, infectious themes, the work is spirited, fun to play, and will be a favorite with audiences and players alike.

Puppet Theater by David Bobrowitz, Grade 2
Puppet theater has a long and varied history, with evidence that it even existed in ancient China. Each part, whether playing pizzicato or arco, gets its turn at playing melodic material, which will motivate students to want to play this piece often. Lively and somewhat whimsical, it’s fun to listen to and fun to play! Piano accompaniment.

Isolation Blues by Susan H. Day, Medium Easy
Written during a long stay at home, this introspective work for string orchestra is charming and boasts a catchy melody too! Students will enjoy the intrigue in all the blue notes.

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About the Authors:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz and Orchestra Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.

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 Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Prayer of Communion arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
This exquisite Communion anthem is sure to make your celebration of the Eucharist a special event. Lovely, singable melodies and gorgeous harmonies are paired with a poignant prayerful text.

Remember and Be Still by Larry Shackley, SATB with piano
Beautiful text imagery, captured effectively by the original music, conveys a vivid picture of communion as seen on the journey from Bethlehem’s manger to Jerusalem’s cross. Lovely melodic and harmonic surprises shimmer like stained glass in this very effective yet easily taught anthem.

Come, Ye Thankful People, Come arr. Mark Hayes, SATB with 4-hand piano and optional congregation
This magnificent arrangement of ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR is scored for choir and four-hand piano (optional two-hand). The vocal texture varies by verse, and after an interlude with a key change, the choir is joined by congregation and descant, building to a stanza of the Doxology (OLD HUNDREDTH), closing with choir amens. This is certain to become a Thanksgiving worship standard.

Our Song of Thankful Praise by Larry Shackley, SATB with piano and optional trumpet
This buoyant anthem practically sings itself! It is a joyous proclamation of thanks for bountiful harvests, friends and loved ones, and the consistent change of seasons. With an abundance of unison and readily learned parts, it is ideal for Thanksgiving or those general times when a “thanks” anthem is desired.

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Spider-Man: No Way Home (Main Theme) arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
Scored for flexible instrumentation, this dynamic arrangement of the Spider-Man main theme includes three stylistic sections – the slow opening, delicate treatment in 3/4, and concluding with the exciting setting in 4/4.

Spider-Man: No Way Home (Soundtrack Highlights) arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
Film composer Michael Giacchino again shows us his stylistic range with the powerful soundtrack to this 2021 box office blockbuster. Along with the dynamic main theme, this medley also features the darker and sinister themes as well as emotional lyric melodies that add so much depth to the story.

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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 Caryn G. and Christopher B., Sacred Keyboard Music Specialists

F. Melius Christiansen Organ Anthology
In celebration of the 150th anniversary of F. Melius Christiansen’s birth, this anthology collects the best of his free works for organ along with transcriptions of his choral anthems. Well-known as the founder of the St. Olaf Choir, Christiansen was also an accomplished organist and during his lifetime published two collections of organ music. This edition features new engravings and updated registration suggestions and offers a chance to make available once again the best of Christiansen’s organ works in a single volume.

Titles include: “Beautiful Savior,” “Before Thee, God,” “Behold the Host Arrayed in White,” “Built on a Rock,” “From Heaven Above,” “In Heaven Above,” “Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless,” “Lost in the Night,” “Lullaby on Christmas Eve,” “O Day Full of Grace,” “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” “Rock and Refuge,” “Source of Calm Repose,” “Temples Eternal,” “The Flower of Love,” “Folk-Tone,” “Funeral March,” “March,” “Marche Triomphale,” “Offertory in F,” “Prelude and Fuga in G,” “Song,” “Supplication,” and “The Shepherd Flute.”

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About the Authors:
Caryn G. is a graduate of Trinity Lutheran College (Washington state). She has over 24 years of experience working at Stanton’s in both the Piano and Choral departments, specializing in sacred piano music. She is a church pianist/accompanist and has enjoyed being a piano teacher and singing in many choirs over the years. When not working at Stanton’s or at church, she loves spending time with family members and friends, traveling and exploring, watching movies, reading, bike riding and most recently trying to better her culinary knowledge and be a little more artsy by painting rocks and water coloring.

Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

PIANO TEACHER’S WORKSHOP WITH CATHERINE ROLLIN
Friday October 21, 2022
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Presented by Catherine Rollin
FREE

Join us on October 21 for a FREE Piano Teacher’s Workshop with Catherine Rollin!

Catherine Rollin will give fun and helpful teaching tips on her current pieces on the National Federation of Music Club Bulletin in solo, duet, concert, and one hand and patriotic categories. She will also share many creative aspects of imagery (dancing, storytelling, visual artworks. etc.) to inspire our students to greater artistic performances. Catherine believes that artistry and interpretation should be part of lessons from the very earliest elementary pieces through advanced masterwork repertoire and she will play a wide variety of examples from this broad range of level.

Catherine Rollin is a pianist, composer, clinician, author and teacher of prize-winning students. Her more than 400 published pedagogical compositions are recognized worldwide for their combination of musicality and “teachability.” Her efforts as a composer, clinician and author are an outgrowth of her work as a teacher. Finding the answers to help her students develop artistic, relaxed and confident technical skills led Catherine to insights featured in her ground breaking series, “Pathways to Artistry.” Catherine’s ASCAP award winning books, “Museum Masterpieces” feature her original piano works inspired by great art masterpieces from museums around the world. She is also the co-author of the 2011 edition of the highly regarded college text, “Creative Piano Teaching.” All of the many facets of Catherine’s work emanate from her central passion for teaching.

Following the Stanton’s Sheet Music Piano Workshop, there will be an Ohio Federation of Music Clubs meeting and luncheon, hosted by Jim and Chris Dorinsky. To learn more about the Ohio Federation of Music Clubs and register for the luncheon, please click here and click on About OFMC Luncheon Registration. Luncheon cost is $10.00 per person.

Register online at stantons.com/clinics, and contact us for more information!

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

There Is Hope In Me by Jim Papoulis, Unison with piano
Kindergartners in Brookline, Massachusetts cut to the essence of music when they instructed the composer to write “Simplicity, beauty, love, and music” is the message they want to convey to the world. Here is a poignant song for your youngest singers.

Barnyard Jamboree arr. Patti Drennan, 2-part with piano and optional fiddle, string bass, guitar, tambourine & washboard
Drennan’s spirited arrangement of the Kentucky Mountain folk song “I Bought Me a Cat” will be a welcome addition to libraries of developing choirs everywhere! With generous sharing of the melody in both voice parts, this innovative arrangement is easily learned and fun to perform. The hoedown-style accompaniment, with its sturdy piano writing, and optional Fiddle, String Bass, Guitar, Tambourine, and Washboard will set every toe tapping in the house!

Foreign Lands by Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano and optional flute
Based on two children’s poems by Robert Louis Stevenson, this imaginative setting uses ample unison singing with an optional flute part included.

In That Great Gettin’ Up Mornin’! arr. Greg Gilpin, 2-part with piano
This rhythmic and lively two-part arrangement of a beloved spiritual is a great teaching piece. With many dynamic points and rhythmic phrases to explore and interpret, it is certain to lead to a satisfying and exciting performance.

Over the Sea to Skye arr. Roger Emerson, 2-part with piano and optional classical guitar
This beautiful Scottish folk song is here beautiful set with an optional classical guitar accompaniment – the piano accompaniment is modeled after a classical guitar. A QR code is provided with the music which takes you and your students to added content that includes SEL teaching resources and video from the arranger to help you identify intersections between the music and text.

The Water Is Wide arr. Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
Thoughtfully crafted to make your 2-part singers sound their best, this Andy Beck arrangement is like a great lesson plan or a choral curriculum, with built-in teaching tools. The lyrical tune is sung first in unison, then in canon, a gentle call and response bridge introduces a new key, eventually some parallel harmonies arrive, and an optional middle note at the end offers one three-part chord. Adapted lyrics sensitively honor “the bond of friend to friend.”

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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 Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral & Classroom Music Specialists

The Mindful Music Classroom: Practical Strategies for Social Emotional Learning by Krista Hart
Trying to incorporate consistent social-emotional learning practices into your music classes and ensembles? This informative entry-point resource views SEL through a musical lens, helping to identify and connect the most important competencies and skills with common musical scenarios and concepts. The varied activities in this book encourage students to build self-awareness, become better teammates, navigate social situations, reduce performance anxiety, and so much more! Use the ideas and reproducible worksheets as written, or as the inspiration to customize and develop your very own. This is an outstanding resource full of ready-to-go SEL lessons for music and ensemble classes!

Sprouting Joy: Cultivating Social Emotional Learning in the Music Classroom by Loren Tarnow
Austin, Texas elementary music educator Loren Tarnow came to SEL the same way most teachers come to things – because it worked. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) strategies helped her transform a stressful classroom into one where joyful music making could happen, where her students could learn and retain music and develop a lifelong love for music. In Sprouting Joy, Loren has translated those strategies into lessons and activities specific to the music classroom to create an uplifting and practical resource for all elementary music teachers.

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 Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Inclusion in Band and Orchestra by Emily Kelley
Emily Kelley presents a resource for educators to learn how to fully support and successfully engage students with exceptionalities in the instrumental music classroom. Accommodations and modifications for students with exceptionalities are offered to foster their success in the music education environment, along with descriptions, specific instructional strategies, and templates for assessments to facilitate progress toward inclusion. The ultimate goal of this book is for educators to learn how to create a learning environment in which ALL students feel successful, supported, and able to be the best musician they can be!

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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 Eric Stratton and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists

Bumps in the Night by Bud Woodruff, Grade 2
In an attempt to musically capture that creepy feeling of walking in the dark, composer Bud Woodruff brings us a spooky new work for String Orchestra. Perfect for that first Fall Concert!

Haunted Bridges by Aaron Fryklund, Grade 2
Inspired by Ichabod Crane’s ill-fated ride in Sleepy Hollow, this ominous piece for string orchestra includes ghostly hints of the melody “London Bridge is Falling Down.” Alternating accidentals throughout create devilishly unpredictable harmonic patterns, and students will enjoy exploring numerous extended techniques, including playing behind the bridge, sul ponticello, portamento, and glissandi. The perfect choice for Halloween concerts!

Aliens in the Attic by Tyler Arcari, Grade 1
Aliens are here! This exciting new work is full of sound effects, drama, and suspense! Tyler Arcari weaves a dramatic tale of an alien invasion from above…your attic to be exact! Your students will be asking to play this one over and over!

The Mysterious House by Gunther Fiala, Grade 4
Imagine this: a dark, spooky night with the wind howling, there is an old mysterious house. That is what this piece brings to mind! Spooky and perfect for that early Fall Concert!

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About the Authors:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz and Orchestra Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.

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

FOR MIXED CHOIRS
Permission to Dance arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
The K-Pop band BTS from South Korea was a hit at the 2022 Grammy awards and this song, as the title of their stadium tour, is high energy. “The Wait is Over, you don’t need permission to dance.”

Glowing arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
A song about finding light in the darkest places. A song about focusing on the love around you during the difficult times. This song could be the spark that ignites non-stop warm feelings and smiles from your choir members.

Run arr. Jacob Narverud, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
OneRepublic’s upbeat song with the matter-of-fact lyrics really resonates with the times. Choosing to focus on the positive rather than on all the worries of life is a message we all need to hear. “I learned my lesson, count my blessings, look to the rising sun and run, run, run.” A great choice for show and pop choirs.

Tell Her About It arr. Jack Zaino, SATB with piano and optional combo
Billy Joel had no shortage of hits, as his songwriting prowess showed equal attention to music and lyrics. This 1983 No. 1 Hit hearkens back to Motown and soul, with an accessible arrangement and horn section to boot!

The Call (from The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian) by Regina Spektor/arr. Dianne Gryba, SATB with piano
This hit from the “Narnia” movie by Regina Spektor, young people resonate with this music and the message. This arrangement emerges from the subconscious, builds to a climax, and then recedes back into a quiet place of assurance.

I Put a Spell on You (from Hocus Pocus) arr. Jacob Narverud, SATB with piano and optional combo
This bewitching bit of ’90s nostalgia will charm your audience in October or on any pops program. Originally written by “Screamin'” Jay Hawkins in 1956, this song is included on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. And who can forget Bette Midler’s show-stopping rendition in the cult classic film “Hocus Pocus?” Conjure up some costumes and choreography to brew a spellbinding performance.

FOR TREBLE CHOIRS
Cover Me in Sunshine arr. Mac Huff, SSA with piano and optional rhythm
Sung by pop songstress Pink and her daughter Willow, this is a bright and sunny song with pure harmonies and a sense of wonder in the small beauties of the world!

Kaleidoscope Heart arr. Allison Girvan, SSA a cappella with body percussion
As the title suggests, “Kaleidoscope Heart” is a metaphor for the ever-changing beauty and diversity of the heart and soul. As the introductory song on Sara Bareilles’ third album, this can also serve as an opening number for any concert or show.

Light of a Clear Blue Morning arr. Mac Huff, SSA with piano and optional rhythm
Written and recorded by Country icon Dolly Parton, the music and imagery reflect the pain of life lifting and the fruits of our sacrifices coming to fruition. This is a joyful and inspirational song and these emotions are skillfully captured in this powerful arrangement.

FOR TENOR/BASS CHOIRS
Desperado arr. Mac Huff, TTB with piano and optional rhythm
Ranked on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” this 1973 soulful soft rock song by the Eagles can occupy any place in your concert, as it’s storytelling and memorable strains linger on well after the song has ended.

I Saw Her Standing There arr. Kirby Shaw, TB with piano and optional rhythm
The target audience for The Beatles’ greatest ’60s hits might not be into screaming as much anymore, but “I Saw Her Standing There” remains an icon of rock-and-roll greatness, guaranteed to get anyone singing and dancing!

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!

Our Stanton’s team is known throughout the music industry as “The Sheet Music Specialists,” and for good reason – our staff is made up of educated, experienced, and dedicated musicians in all areas of the music realm. In this series, we invite you to learn about our staff members on an individual level. We hope you will get to know the “real” us, and learn how we might better be of service to you!

Christopher Bowling grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

Learn more about our Sheet Music Specialists here, and shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

The Gift: A Christmas Cantata by Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano and optional full orchestra
Christmas is a season of celebration, gratitude, and giving…and this new cantata from Lloyd Larson focuses on the ultimate Christmas gift…Jesus. Brimming with beloved carols and exciting new songs, “The Gift” traces the ageless Christmas story through the lens of gratitude and our response to the Greatest Gift. There are also (optional) moments to involve children in singing and offering gifts to the nativity, shaping this into a multi-generational experience for all.

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Caryn G. and Christopher B., Sacred Piano Music Specialists

Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow: Inspiring Hymns of Faith for Solo Piano arr. Faye López
Faye López’s new piano collection is absolutely full of the sounds of faith. This gifted arranger applies her keen creative powers to a wide variety of hymns, including such favorites as “Holy, Holy, Holy,” “It Is Well With My Soul,” and “His Eye Is On the Sparrow.” Suitable for public worship, or quiet moments at home, this is a collection that is sure to inspire you and your listeners. Titles include: “It Is Well with My Soul,” “Holy, Holy, Holy,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Like a River Glorious,” “Brethren, We Have Met to Worship,” “Fairest Lord Jesus,” “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise,” “Jesus, Lover of My Soul,” “Nearer, Still Nearer (with Nearer, My God to Thee),” and “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”

Still Nearer: 9 Creative Settings for Worship arr. Marianne Kim
Marianne Kim is well-regarded for her ability to breathe fresh life into the time-honored hymns of our faith. Her settings are always full of beautiful harmonic and melodic surprises, and this collection does not disappoint! You will love preparing these pieces for the sanctuary, or even for the concert hall, and your listeners will certainly be encouraged by what they hear. Titles include: “The Church’s One Foundation,” “Jesus Paid It All,” “Near to the Heart of God,” “Go, Carry Thy Burden to Jesus,” “Nearer, Still Nearer,” “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” “Rock of Ages,” “How Firm a Foundation,” and “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded.”

It Is Well: Piano Solos to Enrich the Soul arr. Becki Slagle Mayo
Becki Slagle Mayo understands that hymns can help bring peace and calm to our minds and hearts. In this new volume, she showcases her thoughtful creativity by arranging ten favorites, each penned in her own artistically distinctive style. From the contemplative to the joyous, pianists are sure to find something for every occasion in this new folio. Titles include: “It Is Well with My Soul,” “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise,” “Amazing Grace,” “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” “Christ Arose! with Jesus Christ Is Risen Today,” “Rejoice, the Lord Is King,” “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty (incorporating Prelude in D Major BWV 936),” “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” “This Is My Father’s World,” and “Now Thank We All Our God.”

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About the Authors:
Caryn G. is a graduate of Trinity Lutheran College (Washington state). She has over 24 years of experience working at Stanton’s in both the Piano and Choral departments, specializing in sacred piano music. She is a church pianist/accompanist and has enjoyed being a piano teacher and singing in many choirs over the years. When not working at Stanton’s or at church, she loves spending time with family members and friends, traveling and exploring, watching movies, reading, bike riding and most recently trying to better her culinary knowledge and be a little more artsy by painting rocks and water coloring.

Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

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

Counterpoint: Partner Songs and Canons for Singers of Any Age compiled and edited by Anna Wentlent
Encourage independent harmony singing with this carefully chosen collection of partner songs and canons. With accessible mid-range vocal parts, universal themes, and a number of folk songs and classical melodies, this practical resource will be useful year after year. The music and lyrics will appeal to any age: fourth-graders just beginning their choral journey, developing middle schoolers, high school students in need of review and reinforcement, and even inexperienced adults. Includes reproducible song sheets with isolated vocal parts, making it easy to find, follow, and mark parts. The piano accompaniment tracks may be used in rehearsal, for performance, or as an at-home tool for individual practice. Great for beginners or as a rebuilding resource!

Titles include: “Alleluia! I Will Sing,” “Circle of Our Song,” “How I Love My America,” “Peaceful River,” “Snow Is Falling Still,” “Figgy Pudding!,” “Hine Ma Tov,” “Kyrie Canon,” “A Mozart Canon,” and “The Water Is Wide.”

Find all of our Five Star Features for Fall 2022 on our website, and 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 Eric Stratton, Jazz Specialist

Abacus by Ryan Fraley, Grade 2.5-3
A cheerful Latin waltz with a pseudo-6/8 syncopation throughout, Abacus was written for the 2022 Indiana Junior All-State Jazz Ensemble. Optional vibes and auxiliary percussion round out a fully-orchestrated rhythm section while supporting solos on any instrument. Younger players will benefit from the provided transcriptions for alto and trumpet that match the recording note-for-note. An 8-bar drum solo over a vamp brings the band back in.

Spherical by Michael Brecker/arr. Jamie Roth, Grade 5
What an absolute treat! Play Michael Brecker’s quintessential fusion tune “Spherical,” expertly arranged especially for Randy Brecker’s big band. Every nuance of the original track is captured with precise detail and clear notation. This chart pays fond tribute to an American master with passion and a smart, hard edge. All sax parts include optional flute doubles.

One for the ‘Box by Monika Herzig, Grade 3.5
Not just any box, but the venerable Chatterbox jazz club! Monika originally recorded this hard-driving shuffle with her Acoustic Project. Now, the angular bebop lines are traded between trumpets and saxes. Solos for trombone, tenor sax, and guitar are provided in note-for-note transcriptions. However, there is room for any soloist before a sax soli further develops the melodic theme. Punchy and confident, this chart does not let up!

Wexford Carol arr. Ryan Fraley, Grade 2.5
The traditional Irish carol fits nicely over a Partido Alto Latin feel. The 2-measure ostinato dances under a legato melody played by 5 saxes and a flugelhorn. Solo transcriptions for flugel and alto sax are drawn from the demo recording. Carefully-notated rhythm section parts spool down to a winsome last chord for piano and guitar. This is not just a charming and playable holiday chart. It’s also a great entry point to an important South American style!

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About the Author:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.