The Solitude of Snow and More for High School Choir Wednesday, October 04, 2023
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
The Solitude of Snow by Mark Burrows, SATB with piano
This pensive Mark Burrows original paints a pristine picture of winter and its restorative qualities. Gentle, dreamlike voices invite us to come away from “endless busyness” and seek “winter’s healing hush.” A rich musical palette reflects the wonder of the season and magnifies the depth of the text. An expressive art song that brings warmth to colder months.
The Love of a Christmas Night by Greg Gilpin, SATB with piano
Gilpin’s joyful original will add a lilt to your holiday concert. Individual melodies weave and layer their way throughout the work shared by a homophonic chorus. A bright opening choral or processional that is easily prepared and joyful to perform.
Tidings of Comfort and Joy arr. Audrey Snyder, SATB opt. a cappella with hand percussion
Now available in this SATB voicing, here is a new twist on this traditional English carol. The vocal writing is light and rhythmic and will surprise your listeners. A piano part is offered as an accompaniment but this arrangement works just as well when sung a cappella. Optional hand claps and patschen parts make this a special piece within your winter concert.
Pavane for a Winter Night by Gabriel Fauré/arr. Douglas E. Wagner, SATB with piano
This well-known melody by French composer Gabriel Fauré from Pavane, op. 50 has been adapted for SATB chorus with new words from Douglas E. Wagner. A perfect selection for winter concerts, this piece creates opportunities to study Fauré and to compare this setting with the original Fauré composition.
Gaudete arr. Philip Lawson, SATB with piano
This traditional carol is arranged by former King’s Singer in a style that honors the original while bringing it into the 21st century. Changing meter, alternating a cappella and accompanied and call and response sections create a work that is a constant surprise.
Veni Emmanuel arr. Zachary Steele, SATB a cappella with percussion
This twist on the traditional French melody seeks to capture the excitement, wonder, and anticipation of the coming of the Advent season. It presents an accessible means to introduce young singers to compound meter, syncopation, and dissonance while working with a familiar melody.
Campana Sobre Campana (Canción de Navidad) arr. Jimmy Baas, SATB with piano and optional flute, glockenspiel, chimes (or handbells) & tambourine
Translated as bell after bell, this Spanish Christmas Carol celebrates the season with the following optional instrumental parts: Flute, Glockenspiel, Chimes, and Tambourine included to enhance the overall festive mood of the season. The translation of the chorus is “Bethlehem, bells of Bethlehem that the angels ring, what news do you bring me?” Do not overlook for your holiday concert!
Season of Light by Jacob Narverud, SATB with piano
Original written for SATB a cappella, this new arrangement for choirs with piano make this wonderful new carol accessible to all choirs. Written to invoke the feeling of a simple, old-fashioned holiday carol or hymn. This brief, two-verse tune invites all people to bring to mind thoughts and remembrances of the season and to reflect on this meaningful time of year.
See Amid the Winter Snow arr. Ruth Elaine Schram, SATB with piano and optional oboe
The poignancy of John Gross’ memorable tune and Edward Caswell’s notable text is evident in this emotive setting by Ruth Elaine Schram. The vivid vocal tapestry features soaring melodic lines, rich harmonies, and imaginative text painting, which all point to the wonder and mystery of Christmas. The fluid, supportive piano accompaniment, when paired with the optional oboe part, creates an ethereal mood, making it superb choice for school or church settings alike.
Good King Wenceslas arr. Russell Robinson, SATB with piano
Russ Robinson masterfully weds a wonderful 19th century tale with a beautiful melody from a 13th century carol, now in a jazzy, swing-style 5/4 meter. For SATB choirs of all abilities, sure to spice up any holiday performance.
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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.
Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.