Finding the Sunshine: New Titles for Beginning Choir Thursday, January 16, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Finding the Sunshine by Jim Papoulis, Unison/2-part with piano
A perfect introduction to syncopation and jazz, this sunny text reads and like a cross between Jim Papoulis and Mr. Rogers, setting the stage for a introductory number with easy vocal jazz flourishes and a even-keeled beat.
It’s a Brand-New Beautiful Day by Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano
Swing into happiness with a lively, up-tempo choral that’s guaranteed to put a skip in your step and a smile on your face! Crafted in a fun “swing” style with easily accessible vocal lines and a jazzy accompaniment, this infectious tune radiates with positivity and excitement, inviting singers to embrace the joy of each “brand-new beautiful day”!
Butterfly, Flutter By by Greg Gilpin, 2-part with piano
This delightfully fresh, creative original weaves together gentle harmonies, lighthearted lyrics, and a spirited accompaniment to paint a vivid picture exploring themes of growth, change, and the delicate balance of life. As the butterflies flutter by, so too will this enchanting melody flutter through your soul, leaving a sense of joy and wonder in its wake.
Now the Day Is Over by Jen Wagner, 2-part with piano
Here’s a traditional lullaby text set to original music in partner song style. At the heart of the piece, the flowing melody is paired with a descant-like counterline to create lovely harmony. The supportive piano accompaniment, moderate vocal ranges, and careful attention to voice leading make this a solid choice for developing choirs.
Au Pas, Camarades (Song of the Onion) arr. Emily Crocker, 2-part with piano
The French love their onions as you can hear in this French marching song from the 1800s. The verses tell the story (in compound meter) and the refrain helps the marchers stay in step (in duple meter). Impressive sounding and easily learned!
Dreams Were Made to Come True by Nathaniel Stine, 2-part 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.”
There Will Be Stars by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
“At the end of every day, there will be stars.” Stars are the inspiration for this stunning concert work that offers the reassurance only nature can bring. A lilting piano theme weaves its way through cascading vocal lines that seamlessly expand from pristine unisons into sumptuous sonorities. Your altos will especially love their “glimmering, glistening” interjections. Be sure to observe notated dynamics, which lean into several well-approached suspensions and taper to twinkling resolutions.
Little Voice arr. Audrey Snyder, 2-part with piano
“Sometimes a little voice can say the biggest things.” This beautiful Sara Bareilles ballad encourages us to find our authentic voice and courageously use it. This simplified, shortened arrangement makes an ideal piece for school choirs promising success and enjoyment.
You Are Light by Mark Burrows, 2-part 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.
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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.