WHEN YOU’RE SMILIN’: New Jazz & Gospel for Choir Friday, March 14, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
When You’re Smilin’ arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB with piano and optional combo
Performed by singers like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, and more, the lighthearted lyrics of this familiar standard remind us that smiling is contagious. With plenty of jazz stylizations built into the melody and a Kirby Shaw scat bridge, this Michael Bublé-inspired treatment would make a memorable finale, encore, or signature song. “When you’re smilin’, the whole world smiles with you!”
From the Start arr. Michele Weir, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey is known for fusing jazz with modern pop sensibilities. Here’s her breakthrough bossa nova arranged with tight harmonies, a unison scat feature, and several optional solos. Be sure to listen to the original recording to study the smooth vocal style.
The Best Things in Life Are Free arr. Kirby Shaw, SSA with piano and optional combo
Turn back the clock roughly a century with Kirby Shaw’s bright and appealing arrangement of “The Best Things in Life Are Free,” a jaunty jazz-age anthem with a timeless message of positivity. This classic by the legendary songwriting trio of DeSylva, Brown, and Henderson encourages us with the reminder that the greatest treasures – life, love, and the beauty of the world around us – can be ours at no cost.
Lovely Day arr. Robert T. Gibson, TTB with piano and optional bass & drumset
New voicing! Recorded by GRAMMY® winner Bill Withers in the 70s, this optimistic song has become a beloved and respected favorite. Robert T. Gibson’s groovin’ arrangement stays true to the R&B style of the original while employing some gospel techniques designed to show off your singers. Optional electric bass and drumset parts fill out the sound, or perform with the super-charged SoundTrax accompaniment.
If I Were a Bell (from Guys and Dolls) arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
A Broadway standard for generations, this Frank Loesser showtune from “Guys and Dolls” brims with playful longing with it’s charming depiction of the thrill of love’s possibilities. Lively, jazzy and fresh, the clever and catchy lyrics have stood the test of time.
Taking a Chance on Love arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB with piano and optional combo
A classic jazz standard in a classic Kirby Shaw arrangement! The snappy rhythms, tasty contrapuntal writing, and clever lyrics keep things interesting but always accessible. Perform with the included piano accompaniment or the swingin’ SoundPax featuring trumpets, saxophone, trombone, and rhythm section. Vocal jazz singing at its best!
Music, Lead the Way! by Laura Farnell, SAB with piano and optional tambourine
Farnell draws her inspiration for this Gospel-style composition from the work of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all those who worked to break down the barriers of racial and social discrimination. A gripping Van Dyke text delivers the powerful message: When we choose love and sing together in community, surely “peace and love will conquer hate and strife.”
When Our Voices Rise by Rollo Dilworth, SATB with piano
Rollo Dilworth’s distinctive artistry is on full display in this soul-stirring original composition. Paired with additional lyrics from the traditional spiritual “Walk Together Children,” Dilworth’s text is a fountain of inspiration and a testament to the beauty and bravery that can be found in unity. Powerful harmonies and a showstopping piano accompaniment make “When Our Voices Rise” a tour-de-force worthy of any concert.
Spread a Little Happiness arr. Mac Huff, 2-part with piano
Ideal for beginning jazz choirs, this arrangement of the 1929 swing song encourages one and all to care for others even when days are difficult. The swing feel provides a happy-go-lucky style highlighting the song’s positive message.
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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.