I Sing to Remember: New Music for Graduation Friday, April 05, 2024
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
I Sing to Remember by Sherry Blevins, SATB with piano
Commissioned for a retiring choir director, this piece is perfect for saying goodbye to someone or for a commencement ceremony. Focusing on the importance of music as a connecting thread that helps us through difficult times and important transitions in our lives, this rhythmic, lyrical work is accessible, yet profound and poignant. A supportive piano accompaniment adds character and harmonic richness.
Journey On by Derrick Fox, 3-part mixed with piano
This sweet and simple original song, with a lilting melody and folklike harmonies, illustrates the impact of the relationships that we build throughout our lives. Optimistic about the future, the text speaks of friendships, journeying together, and then journeying apart. A terrific choice for graduation!
Today’s Hope by Jacob Narverud, SAB with piano
With uplifting student-written lyrics, this pop-style original encourages young people to embrace their ability to affect change. “The power of hope today will fuel the dreams of tomorrow.” A strong contemporary groove and an irresistible hook will engage, inspire, and ignite enthusiasm. A few solo opportunities provide a platform for individual voices to shine.
Light of Grace by Andy Beck, SATB with piano
Here’s a heartfelt adaptation of traditional Irish and English blessing texts. A gentle yet rhythmic piano figure supports graceful vocal lines and occasional harmonic crunches in this warm closer or send-off song by Andy Beck. Concludes with a musical quote from “Amazing Grace” to bring a final smile, chill, or tear. “May you always be the light of grace.”
Love Will Rise Again by Mark A. Miller, SATB with piano
This moving work by Mark Miller states, “We will never give up, we will overcome, we will remember all the good we thought was gone.” The message of togetherness and resilience is strengthened by the composer’s melodic writing. An accessible work for varied levels and occasions.
A New Way by Mark Burrows, SATB with piano and djembe
“We’ll find a new way, together. We’ll build a new world, together. We’ll lay down pride and side by side we’ll build a new world, we’ll find a new way, together.” This powerful choral is bursting with infectious energy and inspiring lyrics that encourage singers as well as listeners to believe in their ability to join forces and support each other in the creation of a more harmonious world.
Deep Peace by Daniel Lynch, SSATB with piano
This lyrical setting of a favorite Irish blessing is very accessible to mixed-voice ensembles. It works well as a benediction or for graduations.
The Friend Who’s Always There by Sherry Blevins, 2-part any combination with piano
This work celebrates the value of true friends. Commissioned by the Fairfax Choral Society in collaboration with Fairfax County Schools of Virginia, “The Friend Who’s Always There” reminds us that no matter what our age, friendships are especially important to help us through difficult times. With beautiful lyrical melodies, a soaring refrain, an optional descant, and a supportive accompaniment, this work will provide a showcase for your ensemble’s skills. Perfect for supporting positive character traits including anti-bullying, the piece will inspire the singers and listeners alike to brainstorm ways in which we can make a difference by being a friend to all.
Give Yourself to a Dream by Cristi Cary Miller, SAB with piano
Scored for SA with optional Baritone, and lyrics by John Jacobson, this inspirational ballad is perfect for developing middle school and junior high choirs. A flowing and independent piano accompaniment allows your singers experience vocal independence and continue their growth as musicians.
Go Now in Peace, My Friends by James Kevin Gray, SAB with piano
Lyrical, lovely and appropriate for numerous occasions, “Go Now in Peace, My Friends” was written as a celebration of friendship and joy, reminding us of the gift of shared experiences, like singing in a choir. Also, when we part from these gathered experiences, we learn from each other and are forever blessed by them. Highly recommend!
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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.