I Cannot Be Silent: New Choral Titles for Social Consciousness Wednesday, March 08, 2023
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
I Cannot Be Silent by Jim Papoulis, SSA with piano
Written with the Young Voices Toronto, these students wanted to express the need to find a collective voice, to bring light to their concern for so much division in society, and to give a voice to those that are not heard. They felt it was their duty, as responsible global citizens, to not be silent. A QR code is included with the music which takes you to a video showing sign language for this song – increasing the reach of this powerful message.
The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Bob Dylan/arr. Adam Podd, SATB with piano
This re-imagined interpretation of the classic Bob Dylan song is perfect for any concert with a social justice theme. The re-harmonization and contrasting musical style will bring a new attention and poignancy to these well-known words. There is a new musical home for this in concert halls where it has not been found before.
Does the World Say by Kyle Pederson, SA, SSA, or SSAA with piano and optional violin
“Does the World Say?” names a few of the pressures and expectations that the world throws onto young people these days. This dynamic and lyrical work will empower young singers.
We Remember Them by Susan LaBarr, SSAA with piano
The moving words, “As long as we live, we remember them” frame this highly melodic and touching song. “We Remember Them” is a highly-achievable work for SSAA chorus and piano and will be a beautiful addition to any program. Also appropriate for memorial services and funerals.
Lift Your Eyes to Light by Kyle Pederson, TBB with piano
Given everything our communities, choir, and world have experienced recently, we could all use a bit of light. This music encourages us to tend to our hearts and to others, remembering that each of us has the power to bring light into our own lives-and into the lives of others.
Čhaŋté Wašté Hokšíla (My Kind-Hearted Boy) arr. Linthicum-Blackhorse, SATB with piano
Here is a traditional Lakota lullaby that was often sung by mothers towards their young boys. The Lakota language has become nearly extinct but composer/arranger Linthicum-Blackhorse has made it his life’s work to bring the language back to life. In this arrangement, the IPA pronunciation guide is included in the body of the music in order to make it accessible to all singers and choirs.
Eneza Upendo (Spread Love) by Jim Papoulis, SA with piano and percussion
In Swahili and English, this piece celebrates that common and hopeful sentiment that we hear over and over from young people: “I hope we can spread love.”
Who I Want to Be by Coty Raven Morris/arr. Saleel Menon, SSA with piano
Coty Raven Morris’ inspiring “Who I Want to Be,” arranged by Saleel Menon, is ideal for treble choirs of all abilities. Certain to be empowered by the rich messages found within and with solo or small group opportunities, your treble choir will love learning and performing this coming-of-age piece!
Never Give Up by Rollo Dilworth, 2-part with piano
The text for this work was designed to inspire us and remind us that by maintaining a positive attitude and believing in ones’ self (and in one another), we can triumph over any obstacles or challenges that arise. The rhythmic and supportive piano part should help singers develop a sense of energy while they uncover the joy of syncopations and suspensions. A QR code is included which takes teachers and students to reaching resources for the Voices in Harmony Choral Series, and SEL Learning Experiences and videos relating to this octavo.
On the Faces of the World (Song of Peace) by Mark Burrows, SSA a cappella with percussion
Mark Burrows wonderfully captures the essence of peace in this piece, well-suited to treble ensembles of all sizes and abilities. In the words of the composer: “Peace is much more than a feeling. It’s all of us coming together, reaching out, searching, striving. Peace is active!” The music expresses that need for action and coming together with beautiful forward momentum, making for an inspiring and uplifting piece.
Love the Earth by Ruth Elaine Schram, 3-part mixed with piano
Here’s a beautiful selection for Earth Day, themed events, or any time of year! Lyrical and expressive, crafted with unison melody on the verses and intuitive harmonies on the choruses, this is easy to learn and very effective and memorable in performance. A valuable Learning Resource Page is included.
I’ll Never Study by Paul David Thomas, SSAA with piano
Composed in honor of the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote. Liberation and empowerment are the important messages in this Blues infused music.
We Shall Overcome arr. G. Phillip Shoultz III, SATB divisi a cappella
An a cappella setting of the iconic American protest song associated so strongly with the civil rights movement. The arrangement is both reflective and optimistic in feel with effective use of dynamic contrast.
We Will Take a Stand by Sherry Blevins, SATB with piano and optional cello
Scored for mixed voices (SATB) with piano, optional soprano descant, and optional cello, the piece was commissioned by the newly named John R. Lewis High School in Springfield, VA.
We Shall Overcome arr. Rollo Dilworth, 2-part with piano
“We Shall Overcome” became a prominent theme song in the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. This song was often referenced in the speeches and sermons of Dr. Martin Luther King. The day after the funeral of Martin Luther King, blacks and whites held hands in the streets of Atlanta and sang this anthem of unity and social justice.
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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!