BELLA CIAO: New Choral Music from Around the World Friday, January 24, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Bella Ciao arr. Christi Jones, 3-part mixed with piano (optional a cappella)
Jones has masterfully created an Italian song for emerging mixed choirs that affords an introduction to limited Italian text in a fun, accessible setting. Well worth the effort, whether performed with piano or optional a cappella.
La Llorona arr. Ricardo Soto, SATB with piano
Welcoming composer Ricardo Soto to the Heritage Music Press catalog, this exquisite piece, expressing the sentiments of profound sorrow and deep, inconsolable pain. “La Llorona” in Spanish refers to the one who weeps. This piece for mature high school or collegiate choirs is truly a standout with it’s expressive nature and musical challenges. With chordal dissonances that embody the feeling of sorrow, the craft of this work is truly magnificent!
Wild Mountain Thyme arr. Benjamin Knoedler, SATB with piano
Benjamin Knoedler’s setting of the popular Scottish folk tune fully displays Scottish musical character with contemporary flavor. A joy for choirs and audiences alike, this is a versatile programming option that celebrates the beauty of this lovely folk song.
La Martiniana arr. Dan Davison, SSA with piano
“La Martiniana” is closely associated with Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). However, in Mexican culture, it can take on a joyful tone, rather than a somber one. Davison’s SSA arrangement is joyous! With a left hand imitative of guitar and accessible vocals, Davison captures the spirit of this cultural celebration to a tee. Highly recommend.
Aki to Fuyu (Two Songs of the Seasons) by Andrew Jacobson, SA with piano and violin
Commissioned for the Oregon MEA All-State Middle School Treble Choir, this unique set of two short pieces is a splendid addition to treble chorus repertoire. Featuring two texts by Secretary Shōtetsu, a Japanese poet and monk of the Rinzai Sect who lived during the mid-Heian period, and written in contrasting styles, the opening, deeply expressive “In the Coldness of the Night” is followed by the vibrant and lilting “Up Above the Winds.” The optional violin adds warmth and intriguing tone color to this innovative work for concert and festival appearances. A pronunciation guide and translation are provided for the Japanese lyrics.
Dúlamán arr. Cristi Cary Miller, 3-part mixed with piano
This traditional Irish Folk Song is an enjoyable tale of courtship. Set in a lively 6/8 tempo, the music expresses the cheerful optimism of a budding relationship. The Gaelic text is easy to learn and the melody will definitely remain in the hearts and minds of all who hear it.
Three Balinese Folk Songs arr. Matt Carlson, 2-part with piano
Three indigenous melodies from the island of Bali are presented in this charming suite for treble choirs. Drawing on a variety of primary sources based on extensive field research by Dr. Brent Talbot, each short song includes cultural background notes and a full pronunciation guide and translation. Arranger Matt Carlson adds simple vocal harmonies and counterlines sparingly, allowing the gorgeous melodies to shine. Piano accompaniments reflect compositional techniques of Balinese gamelan, the traditional instrumental music played across Indonesia. Titles include: “Juru Pencar,” “Jenggot Uban,” and “Putri Cening Ayu.”
Ye Banks and Braes arr. John Leavitt, TTB a cappella
A classic text combines with a Scottish tune in this accessible a cappella offering for tenor/bass choirs, making this arrangement a great choice for both the festival and concert stage.
Jumalo arr. Laura Jēkabsone, SATB divisi a cappella with bass drum or cajón
As recorded by the Latvian Voices, “Jumalo” arranged by Laura Jēkabsone is a fresh take on the Latvian folksong. With themes of power, strength, and luck, this tremendously fun setting sounds impressive, but is quite singable. Choirs and audiences will have a blast with this one!
Artza Alinu arr. Russell Robinson, SAB with piano
Robinson’s delightful setting of the traditional Hebrew folk song dances off of the page! Hand claps, opportunities for simple choreography, a pronunciation guide, and performance notes serve to enhance this energetic programming choice that is perfect for any time of the year.
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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.