Welcome, Music! New Titles for Middle School Tenor-Bass Choirs Wednesday, March 19, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Welcome, Music! by G.F. Handel/arr. Laura Farnell, Unison (T) or TB with piano
Farnell has adapted “Welcome, welcome mighty king” from Handel’s oratorio Saul, creating an accessible two-part/optional unison arrangement that is perfect for young singers.
John the Slacker arr. Blake Richter, TTB with piano
“John the Slacker” is a great example of a song sailors would sing, adopting words and phrases heard from various lands they visited. A great piece to introduce to young TB singers!
Cindy’s Cripple Creek arr. Glenda E. Franklin, TB with piano
This folksy medley of the American tunes “Cripple Creek” and “Cindy” is creatively woven together in this TB setting. Each tune is showcased individually with seamless transitions before being partnered together in the bright and energetic ending!
You Better Mind arr. Reginal Wright, T(T)B with piano (optional a cappella)
Created for the Schola Cantorum Project and sponsored by the Fort Worth Chorale, “You Better Mind” contains a message of indirect warning to be wary of whom to trust and how much one should talk. Choirs can take full advantage of the built-in “swing” feel as singers move through the lines.
The Journey arr. Joseph M. Martin, TB with piano and optional violin
Two beloved tunes form a partner song joined by not only music, but poetic purpose as well. Friendly ranges, an approachable piano part and a variety of voicings to choose from open this best-seller to ensembles of any size.
Never Gonna Give You Up arr. Audrey Snyder, TB with piano
Whether performed as a joke on your audience (rickroll, anyone?) or simply for its feel-good nostalgia, Audrey Snyder’s straightforwardly charming TB arrangement of the Rick Astley classic “Never Gonna Give YOu Up” will prove a fantastic addition to any pop concert. Easily learned yet compelling harmonies join with an energetic accompaniment to create pure, unadulterated fun!
Little Bitty Pretty One arr. Kirby Shaw, TTB with piano and optional combo
One of the best loved songs of the 50’s, you’ll love singing this upbeat, swing-style choral. It’s terrific for mixed voices but your fellas will love this tune and shine like crazy! Add the combo parts or use the track to give this a more authentic sound!
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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.