News & Views Thursday, October 30, 2025

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

A Thankful Heart arr. Benjamin Harlan, SATB with 4-hand piano
For Thanksgiving or any time during the church year, this English/Harlan offering will bring a truly joyful touch to any service. Driving and ebullient from start to finish, the four-hand (opt. 2-hand) piano accompaniment adds to the festive tone of the piece.

Communion of Grace arr. Patti Drennan, SATB with piano and optional 2 C instruments
Patti Drennan uses the “Beach Spring” tune and carefully pairs it with a beautiful text, resulting in a rich and satisfying new communion anthem. Reflective and sometimes soaring, this offering is truly a celebration of grace. Parts for 2 optional C instruments are included in the score.

A Communion of Compassion by Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
This exceptional ballad delivers a powerful message: “Let your life become a table. Let your living be a feast, a communion of compassion, serving love with grace and peace.” Expansive vocal writing and a supportive accompaniment bring depth and color to this anthem from Pamela Stewart and Victor Johnson. An ideal choice for communion or services focused on social justice or Christian living.

Thanksgiving arr. John Ness Beck, SATB with piano
Based on an early American tune – A Gift to be Simple. Appropriate for Thanksgiving.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her standard long haired dachshunds, Lukas and Thursday.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Hope Has Dawned, Noel by Mary McDonald
The world was lost in darkness, awaiting a Messiah. Then, a dawn of new hope as the world had never seen was born in a modest stable. Come to Bethlehem, and experience anew the magnificent Christmas story through words and music as only Mary McDonald can create. From tender to triumphant, this cantata brings a fresh touch to beloved carols while introducing beautiful new songs which stir the heart and soul. An amazing and unforgettable celebration of the Incarnation!

Glory to the Newborn King! (Celebrating the Light of Christmas) by Lloyd Larson
“For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given!” Lloyd Larson explores the true light of Christmas through thoughtful narrations, ageless carols, and inspired original compositions in his cantata, Glory to the Newborn King! Two narrators weave the Christmas story between eight anthems, ranging from celebratory to contemplative. With SATB and SAB voicings available, plus a full orchestration by Ed Hogan, this 40-minute work is accessible for choirs of all sizes. This Christmas, hear the Good News: God comes when we least expect it, in the most unlikely of ways, to a most undeserving people…Glory to the newborn King!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her standard long haired dachshunds, Lukas and Thursday.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Draw Me Near arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Mary McDonald has transformed the Crosby/Doan hymn “I Am Thine O Lord” into a moving anthem. With key changes and altered harmonies she has enriched the wonderful Fanny Crosby witness of commitment to God’s will.

Sing and Shout Together, Children by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional double bass
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” lays the foundation for this laid-back gospel arrangement. The careful attention to detail in both the vocal and piano parts gives this choral an authentic sound while still being attainable by choirs large and small. You can’t help but move to this one!

Do Lord, Remember Me arr. Mary McDonald, SAB with piano and optional rhythm
This lively arrangement of the beloved spiritual is sure to uplift your choir and congregants alike.

When Morning Gilds the Skies arr. Sean Paul, SATB with piano and optional trumpet
A perfect way to open any morning worship service! A true choral showcase, Sean Paul’s style and creativity shine throughout this lively arrangement. The driving piano accompaniment propels the choir through unison passages, four-part textures, and brief mixed meter sections. The optional trumpet obbligato adds an extra layer of brilliance!

Consecration by John Ness Beck, SATB with piano
John Ness Beck’s setting of Frances Havergal’s well-known text begins with child-like simplicity but moves quickly into his signature rich harmonies and elegant part-writing. This is a great choice for themes of stewardship, surrender and obedience.

Fly Away by Jonathan Reid, SATB with piano
Jonathan Reid offers a stunning new take on the southern gospel text, “I’ll Fly Away,” opening layers of meaning and a depth of comfort and hope that you might not have realized were present all along. Soaring lines and colorful piano writing combine to create a heartfelt work that you simply must hear. Commissioned by South Carolina Music Educators Association, this work is equally suitable in worship or concert contexts.

Assurance arr. John Ness Beck, SATB with piano or organ
One of John Beck’s most popular anthems, it combines Bach’s “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring” with the hymn “Blessed Assurance.” Suitable for general worship.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her standard long haired dachshunds, Lukas and Thursday.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Welcome Home (A Gospel Hymn Medley) arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
This spirited medley of gospel favorites by Mary McDonald is sure to uplift both choir and congregation. Bookended with an original song, Mary weaves together “Sweet By and By,” “When We All Get to Heaven,” and “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks.” Perfect for general worship or homecoming services, this anthem is a joy to sing.

O Praise Him, Alleluia! arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
An awe-inspiring musical statement, Mary McDonald’s arrangement of “All Creatures of Our God and King” blends choir, congregation, and an optional orchestration to create a majestic offering of praise to the Creator. The full choral sonorities and sweeping accompaniment are sure to fill your sanctuary with glorious music.

More Love to Thee arr. Sean Paul, SATB with piano
This classic hymn, deeply rooted in commitment and grace, has been reimagined to bring a fresh wave of inspiration to your congregation. Each verse builds naturally in both emotional depth and musical complexity, building to a powerful statement of devotion before concluding in a hushed, intimate prayer.

Do Not Pass Me By by Reginal Wright, SATB with piano
Dedicated to those who serve the homeless and underserved in their communities, Reginald Wright’s setting of the familiar Fanny Crosby “Pass me not, O gentle Savior” text takes on new layers of meaning. Each stanza presents its humble prayer while each refrain prolongs the plea, “Savior, hear my humble cry; do not pass me by.”

Foundation arr. John Ness Beck, SATB with piano and optional brass choir & percussion
For general use, this setting of the FOUNDATION tune features text from II Timothy, Hebrews, and Isaiah, along with a trumpet trio or brass septet. Especially appropriate for a building dedication or congregation anniversary.

Trust in the Lord by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
With a text based on Proverbs 3:5-6, this is an earnest call to fully commit oneself to trusting the Lord to direct one’s path in life.

To Jesus I Surrender All arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This heartfelt arrangement of invitational hymns is a moving meditation on the mercy and grace of our heavenly Father. Lloyd Larson weaves together three classic melodies, enriching them with beautiful harmonies and choral writing that is both captivating and accessible. Songs include “I Surrender All,” “Jesus Paid It All,” and “Just As I Am.”

He Shall Feed His Flock by John Ness Beck, SATB with piano
Tender and sincere are the two words which characterize John Ness Beck’s setting of these beloved verses from Isaiah 40 and Psalm 23. This is an obvious choice for Good Shepherd Sunday, but the theme of God’s care is applicable throughout the entire liturgical year.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her standard long haired dachshunds.

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State Street, Westerville OH 43081
Presented by Mary McDonald
$25.00

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome back Mary McDonald as our clinician for the August Sacred Choral Music reading session. With a career that spans over forty years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than 1200 compositions through anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to church music. Her greatest desire is “to give God glory for the songs He has allowed me to compose. He alone, is the true Creator behind my pen.”

In 2011, after serving as sacred music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio for more than twenty years, Mary answered a new call. Now she takes her tremendous passion and love for music making directly to churches as an independent artist. Since then, she has been in constant demand in churches across the nation for composer weekends as well as served as host for many of the top choral music dealer conferences in the United States and Canada.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 30 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. Please note that there is no pre-registration for this session – all registration will take place on-site beginning at 8:30 a.m. We look forward to seeing you on August 10th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Contact the Choral Department for more information on the Sacred Choral reading session.

SACRED PIANO READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Presented by Mary McDonald
$5.00

Join us at Stanton’s Sheet Music for an afternoon of listening to new selections of sacred piano music that will be enjoyable to play in church or at home. Our clinician this year is Mary McDonald.

Contact the Keyboard Department for more information on the Sacred Piano reading session.

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State Street, Westerville OH 43081
Presented by Mary McDonald
$25.00

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome back Mary McDonald as our clinician for the August Sacred Choral Music reading session. With a career that spans over forty years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than 1200 compositions through anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to church music. Her greatest desire is “to give God glory for the songs He has allowed me to compose. He alone, is the true Creator behind my pen.”

In 2011, after serving as sacred music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio for more than twenty years, Mary answered a new call. Now she takes her tremendous passion and love for music making directly to churches as an independent artist. Since then, she has been in constant demand in churches across the nation for composer weekends as well as served as host for many of the top choral music dealer conferences in the United States and Canada.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 30 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. Please note that there is no pre-registration for this session – all registration will take place on-site beginning at 8:30 a.m. We look forward to seeing you on August 10th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Contact the Choral Department for more information on the Sacred Choral reading session.

SACRED PIANO READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Presented by Mary McDonald
$5.00

Join us at Stanton’s Sheet Music for an afternoon of listening to new selections of sacred piano music that will be enjoyable to play in church or at home. Our clinician this year is Mary McDonald.

Contact the Keyboard Department for more information on the Sacred Piano reading session.

Kindness: A Chorale and Fugue in the Baroque Tradition by Mark Hayes
If you enjoy singing Baroque music and value the importance of kindness, courage and compassion, this new 30 minute through-composed work by Mark Hayes for chorus, soprano and tenor soloists and orchestra is for you.

Drawing from the writings of ancient and contemporary authors, the original text of “Kindness,” written by Hayes, seeks to answer the question, “How then shall we live, especially in a world that seems so dysfunctional?” The answer: live with kindness, courage and compassion. When we are joined as one in our pursuit of these values, we can make a lasting impact. To quote Margaret Mead, “Never underestimate the ability of a small group of committed individuals to change the world.”

“Kindness” is set in the Baroque tradition and features an original chorale tune with three separate texts, a fugue, both conventional and retrograde, recitative-like sections for the soprano and tenor soloists and extensive instrumental interludes. As a nod to Baroque masters such as Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, Hayes included passages imitating “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” and “Hallelujah Chorus.”

This work is perfect for high school and college choirs as well as community and church choirs. The text is intentionally not sacred, rather universal in its appeal. Imagine how the music and message of this work could join a community together in the pursuit of kindness, courage and compassion. It’s what the world needs.. now.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State Street, Westerville OH 43081
Presented by Mary McDonald
$25.00

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome back Mary McDonald as our clinician for the August Sacred Choral Music reading session. With a career that spans over forty years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than 1200 compositions through anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to church music. Her greatest desire is “to give God glory for the songs He has allowed me to compose. He alone, is the true Creator behind my pen.”

In 2011, after serving as sacred music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio for more than twenty years, Mary answered a new call. Now she takes her tremendous passion and love for music making directly to churches as an independent artist. Since then, she has been in constant demand in churches across the nation for composer weekends as well as served as host for many of the top choral music dealer conferences in the United States and Canada.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 30 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. Please note that there is no pre-registration for this session – all registration will take place on-site beginning at 8:30 a.m. We look forward to seeing you on August 10th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Contact the Choral Department for more information on the Sacred Choral reading session.

SACRED PIANO READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Presented by Mary McDonald
$5.00

Join us at Stanton’s Sheet Music for an afternoon of listening to new selections of sacred piano music that will be enjoyable to play in church or at home. Our clinician this year is Mary McDonald.

Contact the Keyboard Department for more information on the Sacred Piano reading session.

Beyond the Notes: Thoughts on Meaningful Music Making by Paula A. Crider
After more than fifty years as a music educator and conductor, the legendary Paula Crider has experienced it all – the lows and the highs, the messes and the magnificence of teaching music at all levels. With love, wit, and sincerity, she now shares her hard-earned wisdom in this must-read for anyone who teaches music.

There is something here for educators on every leg of the teaching journey. Crider’s conversational narrative begins with her unconventional student-teaching experience and moves through the essentials for music educators – everything from score study, rehearsal strategies, and conducting technique to classroom culture and teacher self-care.

Not only does Crider touch on pedagogy, but she also discusses the often elusive “secret ingredients” that turn notes on the page into meaningful musical experiences.

“Beyond the Notes” proves Crider to be a role model of skill, artistry, passion, and purpose whose insight and experience will have readers returning to this book over and over.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Arise and Eat by Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
This tender Victor Johnson anthem for Communion boasts a warm melody artfully married to a thoughtful lyric by Rose Aspinall. The music features shimmering harmonies and beautiful modulations, and the text meaningfully reminds us to “remember how He took our sin and loved us back to life again.”

Remember, Remember Me by Jack Schrader, SAB with piano
For communion and especially meaningful for Maundy Thursday, this Jack Schrader ballad is a moving choral setting of Jesus’ words at the Last Supper. The beautifully crafted piano accompaniment, for which Jack is so well known, supports the compelling vocal lines.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

SACRED CHORAL READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State Street, Westerville OH 43081
Presented by Lloyd Larson
$25.00

Stanton’s is pleased to welcome back Mary McDonald as our clinician for the August Sacred Choral Music reading session. With a career that spans over forty years, her songs appear in the catalogs of every major publisher of church music. More than 1200 compositions through anthems, seasonal musicals and keyboard collections testify to her significant contribution to church music. Her greatest desire is “to give God glory for the songs He has allowed me to compose. He alone, is the true Creator behind my pen.”

In 2011, after serving as sacred music editor for The Lorenz Corporation in Dayton, Ohio for more than twenty years, Mary answered a new call. Now she takes her tremendous passion and love for music making directly to churches as an independent artist. Since then, she has been in constant demand in churches across the nation for composer weekends as well as served as host for many of the top choral music dealer conferences in the United States and Canada.

Your registration for the clinic includes a packet of over 30 new choral anthems that are hand-picked from the hundreds published each year. Please note that there is no pre-registration for this session – all registration will take place on-site beginning at 8:30 a.m. We look forward to seeing you on August 10th for a wonderful morning of singing with one of the nation’s most sought after church music experts.

Contact the Choral Department for more information on the Sacred Choral reading session.

SACRED PIANO READING SESSION
Saturday August 9, 2025
2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Stanton’s Sheet Music, 330 S. Fourth Street, Columbus OH 43215
Presented by Mary McDonald
$5.00

Join us at Stanton’s Sheet Music for an afternoon of listening to new selections of sacred piano music that will be enjoyable to play in church or at home. Our clinician this year is Mary McDonald.

Contact the Keyboard Department for more information on the Sacred Piano reading session.

Music Is More Than Technique: A Guide to Why and How by Dennis Shrock
In recent decades, the classical music of past eras has appeared on concert programs less and less frequently despite its historical significance and artistic merit.

In this volume, noted scholar Dennis Shrock argues that expressive performances which transcend mere technical precision – correct notes, rhythms, and articulations – will generate renewed interest in the musical masterpieces of the past.

Using primary source quotations and music excerpts from the Medieval through Modern eras, Shrock explains how to perform historic music authentically and artfully, revealing its innate nature as intended by the composer.

In this way, the music of past eras – like its counterparts in visual art and architecture – may be “restored” to its original state and appreciated by performers and audiences alike, ensuring its continued relevance and rightful place on concert programs for generations to come.

A balance of scholarship and practical performance tips, “Music Is More Than Technique” is a must-have reference for conductors of school, community, and professional ensembles.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

God Leads Us Along arr. James Barnard, SA(T)B with piano
James Barnard brings this poignant hymn to life in this thoughtful choral setting. Part of the Singable Solutions series, this anthem features a supportive accompaniment and ample unison/two-part writing that your choir will love to sing. “Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright, God leads His dear children along. Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night, God leads His dear children along.”

The Calling by Lee Dengler, SATB with piano
Using John 14:15 as its foundation – “If you love me, keep my commandments” – this heartfelt anthem is a call to spread light and love in the name of Jesus. Warm and tender throughout, the anthem’s text and music sustain an intimacy and calm that will comfort and inspire.

Bless That Wonderful Name arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
This spirit filled anthem pairs Charles Wesley’s “Blessed Be the Name” with the tune BLESSED NAME, and the Traditional Spiritual “Wonderful Name.” Master arranger Mary McDonald creatively reworks both texts into a seamless, uplifting anthem of praise. The addition of the optional handclaps in the final refrain will bring everyone in on the fun.

How Great Is Our God arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
This beloved praise and worship song is given fresh life in this stunning Mary McDonald arrangement. Starting softly, the anthem steadily builds in intensity to the very last measure. The rich piano writing, as well as the optional orchestration by Michael Lawrence, will instill adoration and reverence within the hearts of your listeners every time this music is presented.

We Thank You, Lord, for Family arr. Mary McDonald, SATB/2-part mixed with piano
A sweet spirit pervades this anthem, thoughtfully crafted for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or even Church Appreciation Sunday. Mary McDonald weds the beautiful folk melody SALLY GARDENS with an original lyric that brims with thankfulness. Flexibly conceived to be sung with an SATB or Two-part Mixed choir, this is a piece you will return to year after year.

Jesus, Lover of My Soul by Craig Courtney, SATB with piano and optional brass quartet
This new hymn tune in minor key provides a deep and settled certainty as Craig Courtney’s setting declares our trust and dependence on God for protection and comfort. Add the optional brass quartet for additional color and strength.

Like a River Glorious arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This time-honored hymn encouraging us to put our trust in God is given a stately treatment that quietly draws our attention to the poetic beauty of the text.

My Faith Has Found a Resting Place arr. Brad Nix, SATB with piano
This anthem, masterfully arranged by Brad Nix, is perfect for both general worship and times of invitation. Brad’s musical expertise is on full display, featuring appealing re-harmonizations, subtle modulations, and accessible part writing. Pianists will particularly enjoy the expertly written accompaniment.

The Perfect Wisdom of Our God arr. Sunmin Kim, SATB with piano
A classical take on the Getty/Townend hymn from new South Korean composer and pianist Sunmin Kim. Rich harmonies, sweeping lines, and dramatic piano writing give this setting a symphonic feel as it works toward its climactic stanza: “O grant me wisdom from above to pray for peace and cling to love.”

There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy arr. Mark Hayes, SATB with piano
Mark Hayes skillfully pairs a cherished text with the traditional hymn tune BEECHER in this dynamic arrangement. Driven by a rhythmic piano accompaniment, this anthem is well-suited for worship throughout the entire church year. Remind your congregation of God’s boundless love with this celebratory offering from one of our most esteemed writers.

Where Love and Charity Prevail arr. Dan Forrest, SATB with piano and optional flute or C instrument
“Where charity and love prevail, there God is ever found.” This English translation of Ubi Caritas is tenderly set to the RESIGNATION hymn tune, resulting in a simple but deeply moving prayer for peace and unity: “let strife among us be unknown, let all our fighting cease; be Christ the glory that we seek, be ours His holy peace.” Optional flute part included in choral score.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Come Now, Spirit of God by Joseph M. Martin, SAB with piano and optional flute
This original minor-keyed Pentecost piece has a lovely text by Tina English. The vocal lines are easy to learn while still being musically and emotionally engaging. The flute part adds a great deal and is included in the octavo.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

My Jesus, I Love Thee arr. Brenda Austin, SATB with piano and optional handbells
This beautiful setting of the much-loved hymn of assurance and confession of faith is appropriate for general occasions and this version, which puts an emphasis on the second verse with its remembrance of the Passion, is especially fitting for Lent and the Easter season. Optional handbells are included.

Be Still My Soul arr. Mark Edwards, SATB with piano
Your choir will enjoy singing this sensitive and thoughtful arrangement of the beautiful hymn tune FINLANDIA. With familiar harmonies and a supportive piano accompaniment, this setting is appropriate for general use during the church year.

Christians, Join to Sing arr. Lynn Shaw Bailey & Becki Slagle Mayo, SATB with piano
Two beloved hymn texts and tunes (“Come, Christians, Join to Sing” and “All Creatures of Our God and King”) come alive anew with energy and light syncopation. Driving from start to finish, the creative pairing of the two hymns is refreshing. The smooth vocal scoring is coupled with a crisp piano accompaniment.

Fairest Lord Jesus arr. Sean Paul, SATB with piano
This masterful arrangement breathes new life into a timeless classic, intertwining rich harmonies and poignant melodies that elevate both the heart and soul.

Come, Ye Sinners arr. Michael Ware, SATB with piano
Michael Ware’s spirited arrangement of this well-known hymn offers your listeners a compelling invitation to come to Christ. The energetic accompaniment sets a fresh, contemporary backdrop for the syncopated vocal writing, and an original refrain provides the perfect amount of variety.

Have Thine Own Way arr. Bryan Sharpe, SATB a cappella
This masterful offering from Bryan Sharpe is perfect for both worship services and concert programs alike. Balancing familiarity with variety, this anthem will be a delight to prepare and present. Limited ranges, careful part-writing, and a relatively brief duration puts this a cappella selection within the reach of any choir.

Jesus, Lover of My Soul by Craig Courtney, SATB with piano and optional brass quartet
This new hymn tune in minor key provides a deep and settled certainty as Craig Courtney’s setting declares our trust and dependence on God for protection and comfort. Add the optional brass quartet for additional color and strength.

The Lord Is My Strength and Song by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Set in a joyous 6/8, this anthem from Mary McDonald works beautifully as a festive call to worship or an upbeat selection for general services. The scripturally based text, engaging melody, and idiomatic keyboard writing ensure that this piece will be a favorite of both your choir and congregation.

Since I Have Been Redeemed arr. Larry Shackley, SATB with 4-hand piano
This joyous anthem from Larry Shackley will have your listeners smiling from ear to ear! Brimming with energy and rhythmic excitement, this arrangement of a timeless gospel hymn for SATB choirs and piano four-hand (opt. two-hand) accompaniment is a must-have for every choral library. This showstopper is not to be missed!

This Is My Father’s World by Nancy Ruth Durance, SATB with piano
A simple new tune for the familiar hymn text grows in its layers and impact as the piece unfolds to a soaring high point, providing an inspiring view of God’s creation and His sovereignty over the world.

10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) arr. Lloyd Larson, SSA with piano and optional guitar & handbells
This superb contemporary praise song is arranged here as a sensitive choral ballad. The words of the Psalmist (Psalm 103) combine with the idea that we could never begin to count the reasons for which we come before God with praise. In the final verse, the number 10,000 is further connected to our endless praise in eternity, forevermore.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Hallelu! He Lives! arr. Ruth Elaine Schram, 2-part with piano
Here’s a joyous, energetic praise anthem celebrating the resurrection. This partner song pairs the traditional chorus “Hallelu, Hallelu” with a simple complementary vocal line that creates an accessible part-singing experience for even younger elementary singers. Invite parents or even grandparents and other relatives to rehearse and sing with the children for an intergenerational worship moment.

Alleluia, Amen! arr. Vicki Hancock Wright, Unison/2-part with piano
“Alleluia, Amen!” is an energetic setting of a familiar hymn appropriate for children’s voices. It is a call for all to praise God and can be used at various times throughout the church year. Though it can be done completely in unison, there is an optional descant/response part that will provide an extra challenge for your more experienced singers.

Celebrate Jesus! He’s Alive! by Lynn Shaw Bailey, Unison/2-part with piano and optional glockenspiel or handbells
With words of celebration and music that sparkles, the joy of Christ’s resurrection fills this anthem from start to finish. A brief snippet of the hymn tune, LLANFAIR, along with its acclamation of “alleluias,” heightens the sense of jubilation and praise. Optional glockenspiel or handbells provide a perfect addition for Easter worship.

Give of Your Best by Vicki Hancock Wright, Unison with piano
A classic hymn text takes on a new shine with captivating music and a flowing accompaniment. The lilting, seamless melody is tuneful and memorable, helping children internalize the message to truly give their best and live the fullness of God’s love in their lives.

Joyfully Sing! by Allen Pote, Unison with piano and optional flute
Seasoned composer Allen Pote has created a bright and lovely celebration of praise and thanksgiving to God for God’s gift of creation. The closing text reminds us that we are indeed all God’s children. It can be sung completely in unison, but the harmonized ending will be an exciting conclusion to the piece. Add the flute for an extra glow. Truly delightful!

My Faith’s Got Shoes by Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano and optional conga & shakers
This anthem features a catchy melody that kids will sing all year long, a grooving piano accompaniment with optional percussion, and a message that sticks. It’s no surprise that this song will become a favorite of your choristers. A great selection for a music and arts camp, vacation Bible school, or Sunday school theme song.

Shout! Shout Hosanna! by Charles McCartha, Unison/2-part with piano
This Palm Sunday anthem is bursting with energy, anticipation, and joy. Developing voices shine with a melody written in the perfect range for young treble voices. Add the optional second part for older elementary or middle school singers, allowing them to explore their expanded alto range and become confident part singers.

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.