Be the Bridge: Choral Music for End of Year Concerts and Graduation Friday, April 04, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Be the Bridge by Kyle Pederson, SSA(A) with piano
A bridge can serve as a wonderful metaphor – connection and understanding in a world where misunderstanding is pervasive, grace and empathy in a world so quick to judge. In “Be the Bridge,” the choir invites the listener to do the work of bridge-building where broken relationships are reconciled and communities are restored to wholeness.
Birds of a Feather arr. Mark Brymer, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
This song by creative duo Billie Eilish and Finneas O’ Connell is about sticking with friends through thick and thin and will be a sentimental addition to any concert program. With catchy lyrics and melodies, singers of all ages will enjoy singing this earworm.
Time After Time arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano and optional cello
Cyndi Lauper’s iconic ballad has been reimagined in this breathtaking arrangement for concert choir with piano and cello. With its poignant lyrics and memorable melody, this pop classic continues to captivate audiences with profound emotional depth and enduring beauty. Perfect for any occasion, this tender treatment lends a touch of elegance to any program.
We’re All In This Together (Ballad Version) arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
In 2006, “We’re All in This Together” was the “feel-good” song of the young generation! Already a classic in the Disney songbook, this reserved, ballad-like re-imagining from the sequel series on Disney+ proves that nostalgia begins at a very early age.
The Dawn by Daniel Schreiner, SATB divisi with piano
“The Dawn” centers around the idea that “the night is always darkest before the dawn.” Highly lyrical with a lovely, supportive piano accompaniment, this hopeful piece is a reminder that even in the darkest time there is always hope.
Living in the Seasons by Joel Snyder & Jane Kozhevnikova, SATB with piano
Songwriting duo Snyder & Kozhevnikova have created a fun and accessible piece for every season! Original lyrics, SATB (no divisi), and a joyful piano accompaniment make this a great concert and festival piece for high school mixed ensembles.
Someday I’ll Meet You Again arr. Molly Ijames, SATB divisi with piano
This lush setting of Max Steiner’s 1944 tune will sweep audiences and musicians away with its soaring melodies, longing harmonies and wistful accompaniment. Ijames’ masterful arrangement will add tasteful stylistic variety to any concert program.
You Can’t Step Twice (Into the Same River) by Brian Tate, SATB a cappella with optional djembe or hand drum
Following the same compositional style of his choral “hit” Connected, this piece carries the message that everything changes and nothing remains but change. Each part gets their own unique melody and they each sound like a chant from a spiritual or a folk song or even the blues. It has that preachiness that can only come from an old wise person that everyone admires and loves. And on top of that it is so fun to sing, and it makes people stop and listen.
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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.