Hola, Media Luna: New for Beginning Choir Friday, September 05, 2025
recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist
Hola, Media Luna by Eddie Cavazos & Trevor Phillips, 2-part with piano
The most lovely selection you’ll program this year. Legato voices sing in both Spanish and English in this charming ode to the half-moon. Beginning harmonies shine brightly over a delicate piano part. A simple pronunciation guide is included in the publication, plus extension activities and reflection prompts are available to download.
Kaleidoscope Color by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano and optional percussion
This elevated partner song pairs two colorful melodies the third time around and includes an echo format refrain. Don’t be fooled by the beginning part-singing techniques, Andy’s eloquent original lyrics will inspire singers of any age, and the elegant harmonic palette (heard in the artful accompaniment) captivates the ear. Performance suggestions include two optional percussion instruments as well as colorful handheld lights.
It’s Alright by Sherry Blevins, 2-part with piano
Composer Sherry Blevins offers an uplifting contemporary original that teaches persistence. “Though you might fall down, you still must try.” The lightly syncopated melody is easy to learn and brings the meaningful text to life. Feature two optional soloists in the slower middle section before the catchy theme returns with distinct counterlines layered over an optional piano bass line. Add handclaps on two and four to lock in the groove!
Little River by Lisa Longe, 2-part with piano
The inspiring words of this nature-themed original are a metaphor for carving your pathway in life. Delicate voices come and go from unison, creating a satisfying harmonic tapestry that is easy to learn. A supportive piano part lies beautifully in the hands, and expressive dynamics highlight the ebb and flow of the river. Simply sweet.
Hope Is the Thing with Feathers by Victor C. Johnson, 2-part with piano and optional horn
Victor C. Johnson has masterfully crafted a breathtaking choral setting of Emily Dickinson’s text. This piece features warm choral sonorities, a lush piano accompaniment, and an elegant French horn obligato that adds a layer of richness and beauty to the overall sound. The combination of these elements brings Dickinson’s poignant words to life, creating a powerful musical experience.
Sail Away (with The Water Is Wide) by Emily Crocker, 2-part with piano
Younger and developing choirs can build important choral skills with this partner style arrangement of the beloved Scottish folk song, “The Water Is Wide,” paired with an original song that perfectly complements the gently flowing style of the folk melody.
The Ferris Wheel by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
Step right up to experience this thrilling, action-packed original by Andy Beck! This innovative song recounts the invention of the towering amusement park staple from the perspective of its first World’s Fair riders. Adventurous melodies combine with captivating lyrics to create clever text painting, while the rollicking 3/4 piano part provides momentum throughout. “Come to Chicago, ride the Ferris wheel!”
Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Author:
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.