Watch It Snow: Holiday Titles for Middle School Choir Monday, October 16, 2023
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Watch It Snow by Eric Tsavdar, SAB divisi with piano
Although this is easily a “winter” piece with references to snow and cold, it is a song that can be sung at any time of the year. The metaphor of “snow” and “snowing” is there to remind us to wait for the storm to pass before we begin shoveling our driveway. The music offers time for reflection and expression.
Candle, Shine Your Light by Karen Crane, 3-part mixed with piano
This original work in minor sets an inviting mood singing of candles shining in the night. Whether for Christmas, Hanukkah, or any other time of year the theme of candles is used, you will love this text of joy, peace and love set with vocals that are beautifully written and easily learned.
El Desembre Congelat arr. Cristi Cary Miller, 3-part mixed with piano and optional piccolo
Here is a delightful carol for your developing choirs from the Catalonian region of western Spain. Both Catalonian and an original English verse are included in this arrangement. An optional piccolo part makes this selection a must for your holiday concert!
Hang the Holly by Dave & Jean Perry, 3-part mixed with piano
Open your holiday concert with this festive offering set in a madrigal style by Dave and Jean Perry. The cheery melodies and lighthearted feel of this choral greeting are infectious! “Hang the holly and the ivy. Hang the greens and mistletoe. Hear the golden bells that ring so merrily; joyfully ringing high and low.”
A Medieval Fa La La by Reginal S. Wright, SAB a cappella with hand drum and handbells
Medieval style marries “Deck the Hall” in this well-crafted arrangement full of fa-la-la fun and perfect for emerging SAB choirs of all ages. Choose handbells, vibraphone or piano along with the percussion for a delightful and novel opening or processional for your next holiday concert. A must sing!
Winter Lights by Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano and optional glockenspiel or tone bells
Lush and melodic, “Winter Lights” is a poignant mood piece conveying the tranquil spirit of a winter night and the lights which illuminate. The piece is easy to learn and excellent for teaching the art of expressive singing. The use of glockenspiel adds a unique charm to the peaceful spirit of the piece.
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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.