O Be Joyful! Holiday Titles for Advanced Choir Friday, October 27, 2023
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
O Be Joyful by Toby Young, SATB with piano
The jaunty 6/8 tempo and effervescent piano part propel the music along and underpin highly singable melodic writing for your choir. From Carols for Choirs 6.
In the Bleak Midwinter arr. Kyle Pederson, SATB with piano
This piece pairs Holst’s iconic melody with a lesser-known melody by Becker, and augments Rossetti’s text with original lyrics that look toward the light of Christmas. An active and independent piano accompaniment, optional opening solo, flowing vocal lines, and an unaccompanied middle section make this a sensitive selection for your Christmas program.
Wexford Carol arr. Stephen Dombek, SATB a cappella
A lovely and straightforward setting of the Irish carol, Stephen Dombek’s arrangement is written with beautiful technique and integrity. Especially well-suited to community choirs and collegiate groups.
Cold December Flies Away arr. Daniel Schreiner, SSAA with piano
A driving and inspiring piano accompaniment fills this dynamic arrangement of the perhaps lesser-known carol. Expertly arranged vocal lines are supported by the modern and fresh accompaniment throughout.
First Cradle by Kyle Pederson, SSA(A) with piano and optional cello
The lovely poem “First Cradle” by Brian Newhouse speaks of a mother holding her child and evokes thoughts of the holy child of Christmas. True to his style, Kyle Pederson works magic with the poem, with a captivating melody and compelling sonorities throughout.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing arr. Joshua Sparkman, TTBB with piano
This joyful new mixed-meter arrangement of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is the perfect winter concert opener or closer. Scored for Tenor-Bass ensembles with piano accompaniment, all parts are accessible, rhythmic, and exciting. Sparkman’s stunning, slower middle section brings contrast and warmth to Mendelssohn’s melody, and the exuberant ending will leave your audience in awe.
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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.