I Want It That Way: New A Cappella for Choir Wednesday, December 14, 2022
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
I Want It That Way arr. Nathan Howe, SATB a cappella with classroom percussion
In 2012, Jimmy Fallon started a recurring segment on “The Tonight Show” in which The Roots use classroom instruments to play pop songs with celebrity guests. These skilled musicians pull off engaging performances using instruments many people don’t take seriously beyond the elementary music room! Nathan Howe has continued his musical genius in a cappella writing with this pop tune sung a cappella with classroom percussion. It’s amazing and fun and suitable for all ages with the variety of voicings available. The choral also includes notes on different ways to teach, learn and perform the piece and all the percussion parts are included as a free download.
Game of Thrones (Theme) by Ramin Djawadi/arr. Paul Langford, SATB a cappella
The theme from the award-winning series “Game of Thrones” is haunting and possibly one of the most memorable television themes from recent decades. Paul Langford has used his skills to craft the instrumental theme into a vocal a cappella setting, capturing the darkness and fantasy of this haunting song.
Everything arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB a cappella
Here’s a cute, quick (two-minute) rendition of the Michael Buble hit. Heartfelt lyrics recognize that despite living in crazy times, a special person in your life makes it worthwhile. No solo or vocal percussion required – this contemporary a cappella arrangement covers the tune with the choir and incorporates aspirated “chk’s” as built-in rhythm. Additionally, “doom’s” in the lowest voice part layout a supportive bass line, and a catchy “La la” refrain stays in the ear long after the final cutoff. Equally effective with large groups or small ensembles.
God Bless America arr. Mark Hayes, SATB a cappella
Mark Hayes is one of our finest arrangers and now he has used his expertise in vocal arranging on this Irving Berlin treasure from the American Song Book. A cappella voices richly present the well-known lyric, capturing its emotional patriotism. Beautiful and dynamic musical interpretation weaves throughout the piece, building to a glorious final “home sweet home.” A fantastic selection for concert, encore performances, and even performances on “game day” and choir tours.
Hero (Tribute to Teachers) arr. Roger Emerson, SATBB a cappella
In the midst of the tribulations that the COVID-19 pandemic wrought, a bright spot emerged in the virtual choir release from the cast of Schitt’s Creek singing Mariah Carey’s “Hero” in character and with an appearance by Carey herself! To all the teachers and students of 2020 (and beyond): you made it!
A Million Dreams (from The Greatest Showman) arr. Mark Brymer, SATB opt. a cappella
“The Greatest Showman” has no shortage of hit songs with staying power. This brand-new a cappella setting of “A Million Dreams” captures the youthful longing and starry-eyed optimism of the text through well-balanced harmonies and turns-of-phrase.
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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!