Alleluia, Sing Alleluia! New Masterwork Arrangements for Choir Monday, April 21, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists
Alleluia! Sing Alleluia by J.S. Bach/arr. John Leavitt, SAB with piano
Bright with joy and sparkling with a Baroque elegance, here is a great choice for a service or concert opener. Brilliant traditional choral writing mixes with a well-crafted piano part to support the singing and delight the ear!
Dixit Dominus by Marianna Martines/arr. Andrew Hathaway, SATB with piano
Originally written for her induction into the Accademia Filarmonica of Bologna, Marianna Martines’s “Dixit Dominus” is often considered her greatest choral work. This arrangement of the first movement was conceived for SATB chorus and piano, and is a perfect introduction to the Classical Era for beginning and experienced singers alike.
Love and Music by Henry Harington/arr. Douglas E. Wagner, SAB with piano and optional flute
Written by Henry Harington in the 18th century, Douglas E. Wagner’s setting of “Love and Music” highlights the lilting character of the early Classical period. The bright and happy qualities of the work along with a flute proclaim the words “How great is the pleasure, how sweet the delight, when love and music together unite.”
Welcome, Music! by G.F. Handel/arr. Laura Farnell, Unison/2-part with piano
Farnell has adapted “Welcome, welcome mighty king” from Handel’s oratorio “Saul,” creating an accessible two-part treble /optional unison arrangement that is perfect for young treble singers.
Da Pacem Domine (Grant Us Your Perfect Peace) by Melchior Franck/arr. Lon Beery, 3-part mixed with piano or a cappella
Lon Beery has outdone himself in this arrangement of a well-known early Baroque tune by Melchior Frank. Beery draws on his knowledge of the adolescent voice, as reflected in the contained range of a fifth, in this simplistic yet wonderful Latin text setting. Depending on the needs of the ensemble, a flowing, supportive, optional piano accompaniment is available.
The Evening Star (Der Abendstern) by Robert Schumann/arr. Audrey Snyder, SSA with piano
Delicate, peaceful, shimmering with classical refinement…all these qualities and more are apparent in this beautiful adaptation of Robert Schumann’s setting of the classic German poem “Der Abendstern.” The piece can be sung with the original German text, or with an equally expressive English text by arranger Audrey Snyder. Approachable yet elegant vocal parts meld with polished piano support to create a distinguished concert-worthy presentation.
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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.