Permission to Dance: New Pops for High School Choir Monday, September 12, 2022
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!
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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!