Take a Look at Us Now! New Pops for Middle School Choir Monday, December 04, 2023
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Take a Look at Us Now (from Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile) arr. Mac Huff, SAB with piano and optional combo
Based on the best-selling children’s book series, “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” was released to positive reviews and even better word-of-mouth. Composers Pasek and Paul infuse every square inch of this song with energy and spirit!
Price Tag arr. Bryan Sharpe, 3-part mixed/SAB a cappella
Jessie J’s most recognizable hit was featured in the fan-favorite movie “Pitch Perfect.” This contemporary a cappella treatment is just right for developing groups. Three conservative voice parts, a moderate-range solo (or small group), and notated vocal percussion pave the way for teens to successfully perform this popular style.
Sing arr. Audrey Snyder, 3-part mixed with piano
This blazing, energetic hit from the vocal group, Pentatonix, is carefully crafted to be easily accessible for younger singers. Perform it at the tempo you wish, or take it up to full speed with the exciting audio accompaniment!
Go the Distance (from Hercules) arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
This exciting song from the Walt Disney animated feature, “Hercules,” has been skillfully arranged by Roger Emerson for upper elementary, middle school, and beginning high school ensembles. With a timeless message of perseverance, the song is certain to be a favorite of singers and audiences alike.
September arr. Roger Emerson, 3-part mixed with piano
“September,” performed by Earth, Wind & Fire, holds the honor of being one of the most popular songs of all time. With a limited range and many unison passages, this arrangement is easy to sing and makes a great opener or closer for your ensemble.
We’re Going to Be Friends arr. Mac Huff, 2-part with piano and optional rhythm
Mac Huff’s spirited 2-part arrangement is a bright new take on the nostalgic original by The White Stripes, notably featured in the film “Napoleon Dynamite.” With an unpretentious, easy-to-learn melody and catchy rhythms, this is the perfect back-to-school morale-booster for your young choir.
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough arr. Roger Emerson, 2-part with piano and optional combo
“Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough, ain’t no river wide enough to keep me from gettin’ to you, babe.” This #1 hit from 1970 by Diana Ross still has super appeal, and Roger Emerson’s arrangement has all the drive of the original, building to a powerful finish. A fantastic closer!
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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.