As I Journey On: New Titles for Middle School Choir Wednesday, August 28, 2024
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
As I Journey On by Chris Maunu, SAB with piano and djembe
Using words from the poem “Courage” by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, Chris Maunu creates an energetic and uplifting piece for young voices, middle school to high school. The piano and djembe add vitality and rhythm that support the encouraging theme.
Dreams Were Made to Come True by Nathaniel Stine, 3-part mixed with piano
This inspiring anthem reminds us that dreams create endless possibilities. An arpeggiated accompaniment, conservative vocal ranges, and a pop-style melody make this easy to learn and a joy to sing. Opens with an optional solo – “Dream a dream, plant a seed, hoping someday it will grow.”
Fill the Earth with Joyful Singing by Andrew Parr, 3-part mixed with piano
Looking to inject your next concert with energy and excitement? Look no further than Andrew Parr’s newest choral work, “Fill the Earth with Joyful Singing.” With its infectious groove, irresistible rhythms, cool harmonies, and a lyrical, contrasting middle section, this piece is tailor-made for developing singers, making it a perfect addition to any choir’s repertoire.
Viento! by Matthew Gawronski, 2-part treble with piano and optional djembe
Looking for an energetic, crowd-pleaser that’s both fun to learn and fits well in multiple concert contexts? “Viento!” is that piece. New to the BriLee catalog, composer and educator Matthew Gawronski brings his unique style into this delightful Two-Part Treble work with piano and optional djembe.
You Are Light by Mark Burrows, SAB with piano and optional djembe
“In the light I have found my family, I am safe to sing my song.” With a lightly syncopated, contemporary sound, this uplifting original expresses the need for a warm and welcoming community for all. Composer Mark Burrows reminds us that we can help others feel comfort and belonging simply by sharing our inner light. Perform with piano alone or with the addition of an optional djembe. Rich with opportunities for social-emotional learning.
Bloom by Lisa Longe, 2-part with piano
“Though we are small, we are meant to break free and bloom.” Carefully crafted for developing voices, this lovely concert piece features unison singing, parallel harmony, pedal-tone harmony, plus some staggered entrances at the bridge. Set the tone for growth at the beginning of the year, or celebrate moving up in the spring.
Agnus Dei by Ruth Morris Gray, SAB with piano
Ruth Morris Gray presents an exquisite minor-key setting that elevates choral musicianship. A rich melody ebbs and flows over the colorful harmonic palette, while a captivating piano theme winds its way throughout. Various textures, expressive dynamics, and rubato tempos encourage artistry.
I Must Go Down to the Sea by Earlene Rentz, 3-part mixed with piano
Hoist the sails and embark on a whimsical maritime adventure with this delightful setting of a text by English poet and writer John Masefield. Accessible yet creative vocal lines are perfectly complemented by a gently lilting piano accompaniment, making this an ideal choice for your concert or festival programming needs.
Little Things by Christi Jones, SA with piano
We don’t always realize the ripple effect that occurs when we perform small acts of kindness or share words of love with those around us. These seemingly insignificant actions can have such a positive impact and make the world a better place. Thus is the premise for this delightful and thought-provoking SA choral, sure to spark much wonderful conversation and, hopefully, lead to actions of the same nature!
Awakening by Christi Jones, SATB with piano
Jones’ powerful composition for mixed choirs, based on the poem by writer James Weldon Johnson, is both haunting and evocative. Set in D minor with a driving rhythmic piano accompaniment, mixed choirs will feel empowered singing this fabulous 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.