News & Views Sunday, December 08, 2024

Category: Folk Music

So You Want to Be a Music Major? 22 July, 2024

So You Want to Be a Music Major: A Guide for High School Students, Their Parents, Guidance Counselors, and Music Teachers by Robert Franzblau
This book details the fundamental knowledge, skills, and attitudes that prospective music majors need in order to make a successful transition from high school to college. Specific exercises are offered, along with supporting online resources. It also suggests steps that parents, high school guidance counselors, and music teachers can take to identify, encourage, and guide future musicians and music educators.

Majoring in Music: All the Stuff You Need to Know by Rich Holly
Highlights the major components for survival and success during the formative years in a college, university or conservatory and provides examples and strategies to greatly assist the student musician. With no-nonsense advice and practical tips, this guide will prepare music students (and their parents!) to meet the many challenges, and take advantage of the opportunities afforded them during the glorious college years.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Waltzing Matilda and More Storybooks for the Music Classroom 22 March, 2024

recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral & Classroom Music Specialists

Waltzing Matilda by John Feierabend/illustrated by Adriana Wimler
“You’ll come a-waltzing” with this lively Australian folk song, part of a series of captivating picture books based on beloved songtales collected by John M. Feierabend. Chock-full of whimsical Australian vocabulary, “Waltzing Matilda” depicts the rugged adventures of a traveling worker (“swagman”) as he journeys across the Australian countryside, encountering both good fortune and trouble along the way. Adriana Wimler’s colorful illustrations capture the natural beauty of the Australian landscape and feature several indigenous Australian animals. See if you can spot them all!

Old Joe Clark by John Feierabend/illustrated by Garant Cosey
Even the big bad fox can’t resist joining the fun in this topsy-turvy folk song, part of a series of captivating picture books based on beloved songtales from the great American folk music tradition. The song’s catchy Mixolydian melody and comical depiction of Old Joe Clark have made this song an American favorite since the early 1900s. Garant Cosey’s vibrant illustrations capture the imaginative spirit of the song, featuring characters who are singing, dancing, and playing the banjo (and spoons). More than 90 silly verses have been published for this song over the years. Add to the fun by creating your own!

abcs of women in music Anneli Loepp Thiessen

The ABCs of Women in Music by Anneli Loepp Thiessen/illustrated by Haeon Grace Kang
Meet Clara the composer, Ella the jazz singer, Selena the pop star, and Xian the conductor! Women in music are brilliant, creative, brave, and resilient. They are composers, conductors, singers, musicologists, electronic music producers, and so much more. In this vibrantly illustrated picture book, meet 26 remarkable women musicians who collectively span over 1,000 years of music history and represent a diversity of cultures, races, professions, and abilities. Their incredible stories and beautiful work are sure to inspire a new generation of musicians!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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.

What Every Musician Needs to Know About the Body 08 January, 2024

recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists

What Every Musician Needs to Know About the Body (Revised Edition) by Bridget Jankowski
This primer for all musicians provides a reliable base for a lifetime of playing and singing. The principles in these pages are the elemental foundation of music education, and will protect a musician from injury, promote the physical freedom and sensitivity needed for technical mastery, and secure the embodied intelligence that grounds musical power and subtlety. Musicians teaching from these principles will see their students thrive. Students studying and restudying these pages will delight in their enhanced performance. This book also serves as the text of a six-hour course on Body Mapping for musicians developed by Barbara Conable.

What’s New in the Revised Edition? Created with the input of experienced Licensed Body Mapping Educators, and led by Body Mapping expert Bridget Jankowski, this revision includes:
• Updated and enlarged images – big enough for coloring.
• Streamlined and clarified content based on new science.
• An updated format that follows the associated Body Mapping course more closely.
• Additional room for notes at the end of each section.

Knowledge from the scientific community continues to inform the work of the Association for Body Mapping Education. The book’s associated Body Mapping course of the same name has evolved over the past two decades, and an updated text for the course will be a valuable resource for novice and seasoned Body Mapping Educators alike.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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.

Old Joe Clark 14 November, 2022

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral & Classroom Music Specialists

Old Joe Clark adapted by John Feierabend, illustrated by Garant Cosey
Even the big bad fox can’t resist joining the fun in this topsy-turvy folk song, part of a series of captivating picture books based on beloved songtales from the great American folk music tradition.

The song’s catchy Mixolydian melody and comical depiction of Old Joe Clark have made this song an American favorite since the early 1900s.

Garant Cosey’s vibrant illustrations capture the imaginative spirit of the song, featuring characters who are singing, dancing, and playing the banjo (and spoons). More than 90 silly verses have been published for this song over the years. Add to the fun by creating your own!

Like the other folk song picture books in the series, Old Joe Clark includes a description of the history of the song, the notation of the song, and a link to a free MP3 download of the song, sung by Jill Trinka. Another winner collected by John M. Feierabend!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years and a former church choir director of 20 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

STANTON’S SHEET MUSIC: 61 Years of Great Service! 01 August, 2021

Happy Birthday to us! Stanton’s is celebrating 61 years of great service for musicians, directors, and educators. Watch our history!

#makethemostmusic #dedicationtoeducation #programwiththepros #sheetmusicspecialists #bewherethemusicis #stantonssheetmusic #sheetmusic #musiceducation #musicteacher #musiced #musiceducator #musiceducationmatters #conducting #musicdirector #music

Music in the Air: Folksongs & Spirituals for Choir 07 May, 2021

music in the air ryan murphy

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

Music in the Air arr. Ryan Murphy, SATB with piano
Ryan Murphy’s arrangement of “Music in the Air” brings the song to an exciting new life. This setting includes a driving piano accompaniment and singable vocal parts, making this an achievable work for your choir with great impact.

Bye and Bye arr. Rollo Dilworth, SATB with piano
Another rock-solid addition to the spiritual oeuvre of Rollo Dilworth, “Bye and Bye” is a resolute and medium-difficulty level selection for developing high school choirs.

Follow the Drinking Gourd arr. Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
Victor Johnson’s driving setting of the traditional African-American spiritual conveys a sense of urgency that builds from beginning to end, including a dramatic optional descant in the final chorus. A hardy piano accompaniment propels the arrangement and supports the syncopated singers, who are fully harmonized in all voicings.

Hold On arr. Dan Davison, SATB with piano and optional percussion
With tremendous rhythmic variety, vitality, and even counterpoint, Davison creates a frenetic energy in this beloved spiritual that comes out of the slave culture of the American south. Ranges are perfect for emerging mixed choirs in the middle and developing high school levels. Add the optional brake drum for greater effect.

Shady Grove arr. Tom Shelton, SATB with piano and optional violin, double bass, guitar & banjo
Tom Shelton’s arrangement of this beloved bluegrass song will offer a rich experience for singers and audiences. May be performed with piano only or with the additional traditional bluegrass instrumentation. Tremendously fun!

Elijah Rock arr. Victor C. Johnson, SSA a cappella
Possessing crisp a cappella harmonies and cool syncopation in the vocal parts, this work is a solid choice for developing choirs in both concert and festival settings. An original bridge augments the popular traditional spiritual melody, and the echoing harmony parts in the chorus add to the rhythmic texture. A fresh arrangement of a choral classic!

Joshua arr. Stacey V. Gibbs, SATB divisi a cappella
Stacey is known for his dynamic and expressive arrangements of spirituals, and his setting of “Joshua” proves why. He preserves the traditional spiritual while bringing in fresh and creative changes that lift it to new heights. As you would hope, the walls of Jericho do come down, and the ending shines in spirit and victory.

Follow the Drinking Gourd arr. David Hill, TTB with piano
“Follow the Drinking Gourd” is the perfect spiritual for the burgeoning tenor-bass choir as it provides opportunities to explore colors in the sound while singing in a minor key. With a mysterious piano accompaniment, the repetitions of the word “follow” portrays the haunting call of those who have gone before. Not to be over-looked!

No matter what your in-person or remote teaching requires, shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

Fiddle & Folk for Orchestra 14 April, 2021

recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist

Eight titles of fiddling fun for violins, violas, and cellos!

Barnyard Variations by Andrew H. Dabczynski, Grade 3.5
“Barnyard Variations” is a creative set of humorous variants on the familiar “Old MacDonald” folk song. Every orchestra section is featured in a variation, each musically imitating a different barnyard animal. Students explore contemporary techniques with a bluegrass flare. This piece makes an excellent opening or closing piece for concerts, or an introduction to the instruments in recruiting or educational programs.

Dance of the Dells by Janelle Zook Cunalata, Grade 1
Hop aboard the ferry and delight in the impressive rock formations along the Wisconsin River gorge known as the notorious Wisconsin Dells. The blazing sun, rollicking river, and the stunning rock formations on the towering cliffs put a spring in your step and a dance to your feet. Composed with the emerging musician in mind, “Dance of the Dells” is both fun to play and listen to, with contrasting dynamics, dance-inspired rhythms, and a climactic ending. Enjoy the scenery and join the fun in “Dance of the Dells!”

Feng Yang Song (Flower Drum Song) arr. Bob Phillips, Grade 2
One of the most enduring Chinese melodies dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this arrangement of “Feng Yang Song,” or “Flower Drum Song,” will provide technical development, listening skills, and is just beautiful. Arranged by Bob Phillips using the G and D major pentatonic scales, the sounds that might have been heard centuries ago are well-represented in the strings. All sections play the melody as well as accompaniment parts in pizzicato or as percussive taps on the top of their instruments using the finger pads of the left hand.

Fiddle Fury by Kathryn Griesinger, Grade 3
The fast and furious pace of this fiery work never slows down, bringing the energy and spirit of a hoedown that ventures into a few unconventional rhythms and syncopated accompaniments. Exciting!

Frost on the Plow by Samuel Gelfer, Grade 3.5
Frost on the Plow is an energetic composition perfect for introducing some fiddlin’ fun to your classroom. Written in the style of traditional fiddle-tunes, players will encounter authentic fiddle techniques such as shuffle-bowing, chops, and double-stops at a brisk tempo.

hoedown showdown Neridah Oostenbroek

Hoedown Showdown by Neridah Oostenbroek, Grade 3
Get ready to have some fun with this energetic western-style romp! Showcasing a melody that weaves its way through every section, the piece also makes use of open string drones and syncopated rhythms, bringing the country-style flair to life. Outstanding and infectious!

Isle of Anglesey arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 2.5
The Isle of Anglesey (Welsh: Ynys Mon) lies just off the coast of Wales. This island contains the largest seaport bringing passengers to and from Ireland. In this charming arrangement, two traditional Welsh and Irish airs are combined and woven throughout the orchestra, bridging the waters between these beautiful lands.

A Somerset Lament and Reel by William Camphouse, Grade 3.5
Cast from original melodic ideas in ABA form (slow-fast-slow) with modal tonality and a feel akin to the music native to the British Isles.

No matter what your in-person or remote teaching requires, shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

All About Ukulele 01 July, 2020

all about ukulele chad johnsonAll About Ukulele by Chad Johnson, for Beginning Ukulele
Have you struggled through tedious lessons and boring instruction books in your desire to learn to play the ukulele? If you wish there was a fun and engaging way to motivate you in your uke playing quest, then this is it: All About Ukulele is for you. Whether it’s learning to read music, playing in a band, finding the right instrument, or all of the above, this enjoyable guide will help you to finally start playing your favorite songs in many different styles. Plus, learn interesting tidbits on ukulele gear, care and maintenance, other fretted instruments, and other fun stuff about the uke. This fun-filled, easy-to-use guide includes:
• an introduction to bass
• step-by-step music reading instruction
• background on various styles of music, including dozens of favorite songs
• performance tips & tricks
• famous uke players & essential listening

Excerpts from over 40 songs are included: All Along the Watchtower • China Grove • Dream On • 5 Years Time • Free Fallin’ • In My Life • Karma Police • Let It Be • More Than Words • Ode to Joy • Over the Rainbow • Pinball Wizard • Riptide • You Really Got Me • and many more. The audio is accessed online using the unique code inside each book and can be streamed or downloaded. The audio files include PLAYBACK+, a multi-functional audio player that allows you to slow down audio without changing pitch, set loop points, change keys, and pan left or right.

Find more uke resources on our website, or contact one of our Sheet Music Specialists for personalized recommendations. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

First 15 Lessons for Mandolin 15 May, 2020

00289021-wlFirst 15 Lessons for Mandolin by Fred Sokolow
This handy beginner’s guide for learning to play the mandolin includes online audio/video. It starts with learning to tune the mandolin, how to hold the mandolin, and how to hold and use the pick. Chords and strumming patterns are taught. The video really helps out, as it’s one thing to only hear something, and quite another to see it as well!

By the time you get through this “how to” book, you’ll be able to play good old bluegrass tunes like “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” and “Blue Moon of Kentucky,” plus popular songs like “Hey Jude” and “Mr. Tambourine Man.” The video lessons are presented by author Fred Sokolow, a world renowned teacher and player of several fretted instruments.

For more information about this book or other mandolin collections, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website at stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

Bluegrass Songs for Easy Guitar 17 April, 2020

00702394-wlrecommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Bluegrass Songs for Easy Guitar
This collection includes 25 bluegrass songs with chords and tab. The chords are easy, so you can quickly learn your favorites. The songs are in standard notation and tablature, so you can learn the songs you’ve never encountered before. This is a fun collection for playing by yourself, or with friends! Songs include: “Alabama Jubilee,” “Arkansas Traveler,” “Bill Cheatham,” “Blackberry Blossom,” “The Fox,” “Great Speckled Bird,” “I Am a Pilgrim,” “New River Train,” “Red Rocking Chair,” “Red Wing,” “Sally Goodin,” “Soldier’s Joy,” “Turkey in the Straw,” and more!

For more information about this collection or other bluegrass collections, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at  keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website at stantons.com.  Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

Happy Songs for Ukulele 13 April, 2020

00173163recommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Happy Songs for Ukulele
Ukulele is perfect for playing happy songs, what with its bright sound. This collection of 20 happy songs is perfect for strumming and singing, and many of the titles included are available via Stanton’s Digital Delivery, so you can print and play right away! Songs include: “Ac-cent-tchu-ate the Positive,” “(It’s a) Beautiful Morning,” “Best Day of My Life,” “Blue Skies,” “Bubbly,” “Dancin’ in the Moonlight,” “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” “Good Day Sunshine,” “Good Vibrations,” “Happiness,” “Happy,” “Happy Days are Here Again,” “Happy Together,” “I Can See Clearly Now,” “Island in the Sun,” “My Favorite Things,” “Sing,” “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Walking on Sunshine,” and “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah.”

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

World Music for Orchestra 14 February, 2020

danza de mi corazon dance of my heart steven l. rosenhausrecommended by Dan C. and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists

Danza de mi Corazon (Dance of My Heart) by Steven L. Rosenhaus, Grade 2.5
Composer Steven Rosenhaus always strives to have his music connect emotionally with players and audiences alike. This energetic work does that and makes you want to dance too! It’s truly a “dance of the heart.”
TEACH • D harmonic minor, 16th note pick-ups, interweaving
ORCHESTRATION • all parts active, some call and response
PERFORMANCE • will make your feet move and your heart sigh

jai hind deborah baker mondayJai Hind arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 2.5
“Jai Hind” is an Indian expression meaning “Hail India” or “Long Live India.” This arrangement features three different songs, including Jana, Gana, Mana, the National Anthem of India. Ms. Monday also includes an energetic Bollywood inspired section which is a nod to the popular Indian movie industry. The opening section features a beautiful violin solo.
TEACH • drones, gliding whole step “meends,” Bollywood rhythms
ORCHESTRATION • tabla/djembe & suspended cymbal add lots
PERFORMANCE • ear-opening with social studies cross curriculum

la fiesta de cuerdas bob phillips john nietoLa Fiesta de Cuerdas arr. Bob Phillips & John Nieto, Grade 2.5
Two traditional mariachi tunes, “Alá en el Rancho Grande” and “La Adelita,” along with a new original, “Polka de San Antonio” by John Nieto, form a fabulous medley for any happy occasion—any fiesta. As the title (translated “The Festival of Strings”) indicates, make it a party! In 2/4 and first position with some chromatic alterations, this piece is accessible and fun to play. The rhythmic pulse continues throughout this exciting piece.
TEACH • Mariachi rhythms & colors, chromatics, key changes
ORCHESTRATION • bass anchors the 2-beat feel, all others “sing”
PERFORMANCE • very playable & very authentic sounding medley

Find more multicultural options for your orchestra on our website, or contact us for personalized recommendations. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Dan C. has worked at Stanton’s since 1979, primarily with orchestra music and print promotions. A “working” musician, he’s a classical cellist, a rock & jazz bassist and a folk & country guitarist/singer. His free time is spent with family or reading, gardening, cycling and working puzzles. His series of musical puzzles (RP3 Rebus Puzzle Picture People) can be found on the Stanton’s Facebook page each Sunday. He also has a reputation as a pretty good joke teller, and is recently retired – congrats, Dan!

Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.

Stanton’s Online Catalogs 17 January, 2020

online catalog directory program with the prosView all of Stanton’s Five Star Features and favorites with our new online catalogs! Featuring our favorite new titles for school and sacred ensembles in fun, programmable categories, use our online catalogs to go straight to a title’s preview material. Visit our directory to find the catalog for your ensemble.

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Songs from the Sacred Harp 17 October, 2019

Songs From the Sacred Harprecommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

Songs from the Sacred Harp arr. C.E. Walz, for Moderately Easy Piano
This collection by C.E. Walz is a celebration of traditional American hymn tunes from the nineteenth century. What is the Sacred Harp? It is a style of a cappella choral singing – “a cappella” is singing without accompaniment, in a chapel choral style. The “sacred harp” refers to the human vocal folds. Sacred Harp hymn books use the shape note system. If you get a chance, look up a shape note singing group near you and go listen – it’s delightful!

This collection includes “There is a Happy Land,” “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand,” “I Will Arise,” and more. The arrangements are moderately easy, and it doesn’t take too long to prepare them for a Sunday morning.

For more information about this collection or others like it, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit us online at stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

Use Your Ukes! 07 October, 2019

recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral and Classroom Music Specialists

Using ukuleles in your elementary music class is a great way to teach musical concepts – harmony, melody, rhythm, style, form, and more! They keep young students actively involved in classroom music making, and are perfect for little hands to be successful quickly. We encourage you to explore these new resources for incorporating the ukulele into your classroom:

use your ukesUse Your Ukes
So, you have some ukuleles? Great! This book is here to help you introduce this fun and versatile instrument to your music class. It will walk you through how to teach the first ukulele lesson, where to go next, and how to gradually expand your students uke skills. Best of all, every lesson idea comes from a music teacher who tried it with their own young musicians first. Use those ukes well, with these great ideas that really work! See below for valuable ideas from Cristi Cary Miller on using this resource:

essential elements for ukuleleEssential Elements for Ukulele
Playing the ukulele is an enjoyable, easy, and inexpensive way to get involved in music. It provides a way to learn musical concepts and skills that can apply to any instrument you decide to study. Moreover, it will give you a great opportunity to share the joy of making music with other people. This book will help to provide you with the basic skills and musical background you need to get started. The online audio contains demonstrations of all the songs and examples available for download or streaming using the access code printed inside the book. This carefully crafted method emphasizes chord strumming skills; teaching students HOW to practice; note reading exercises; chord challenges to learn how to figure out chord progressions; tab reading; and more. It also includes nearly 30 familiar songs that students can play while still learning, including: All My Loving * Home on the Range * Hound Dog * Jambalaya (On the Bayou) * La Bamba * The Lion Sleeps Tonight * The Rainbow Connection * Take Me Out to the Ballgame * and more! Practice, experiment, and have fun playing the ukulele!

Continue in the Essential Elements series with Book 2, and explore the supplement Easy Strumming Songs for 12 more fun songs to play.

Find a variety of ukulele music on our website, or contact us for more ideas on incorporating this instrument into your classroom. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

Creative Programming: Folk Songs & Spirituals for Choir 16 September, 2019

deep river victor johnsonrecommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists

In programming your school concerts this year, consider gathering inspiration from this combination of folk songs and spirituals! Whether your concert needs include great festival pieces, concert closers, novelties, artistically crafted accompaniments, or joyful celebrations, these new selections could add just the right creative touch to your concert season!

Deep River arr. Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
Johnson’s artistically crafted piano accompaniment creates a gentle, wave-like motion throughout to support the warm, lush choral textures and harmonies in this superb arrangement of the beloved spiritual. This elegant, emotional and yet accessible setting is destined to become a staple in choral repertoire for both school and church choirs.

no ways tired rollo dilworthNo Ways Tired arr. Rollo Dilworth, SATB with piano
Now available for SATB choirs. This spiritual encourages us to persevere even in times of challenge and adversity. Set in a gospel style with call and response, and repeated refrains, this work builds to a climactic “special chorus” bringing a spirit of empowerment and joyful celebration to your concert.

Shenandoah arr. Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano & oboe
A plaintive oboe solo floats above an expressive piano accompaniment in this inspired arrangement of the much-loved American folk song. Featuring unique harmonic twists and turns, and a gradual broadening of the original melody that mimics the movement of the river itself. A refreshing reimagining of a treasured classic.

down in the river to pray jace wittigDown in the River to Pray arr. Jace Wittig, SSAA a cappella with body percussion
The Colorado all-state treble choir stood outside their hotel rooms, many stories high, singers at all levels, singing this arrangement into the atrium in the center. The sound was compelling and so it was recorded on someone’s iPhone and posted on YouTube. Then it went viral. The next you know it was programmed for the ACDA National Convention. It is a stunning arrangement that builds just right.

Chicken on a Fencepost arr. Greg Gilpin, 3-part mixed with piano
Chickin’ scratchin’ fun abounds in Gilpin’s arrangement of the 19th century dance reels “Hello Susan Brown” and “Four in the Middle.” Even though this is a novelty piece, it is full of teaching opportunities, rehearsal fun and is sure to be a performing gem.

bound for canaan lan' stacey gibbsBound for Canaan Lan’ arr. Stacey V. Gibbs, SATB a cappella
A superb arrangement of this well-known spiritual by prolific composer Stacey Gibbs is highly engaging. From the joyous opening, the energetic rhythms portray a picture of the hopeful text. A great festival piece, concert closer or encore number for burgeoning mixed ensembles.

O! What a Beautiful City arr. Shawn Kirchner, SSSAAA with piano
Now for treble choir! Inspired by the Joseph Jennings arrangement of this same tune for Chanticleer, Shawn combines the five syllable “Halleluia” with the timeless melody of the old spiritual. A true gospel piano part, for years improvised by the arranger and now written down along with an optional coda for any choir blessed with a great gospel soloist. This is a concert “closer” of the highest order.

Find more great repertoire options on our website, or contact us for more information. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.

Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!

The Big Book of Folksongs 30 August, 2019

big book of folksongsrecommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

The Big Book of Folksongs
Folk songs come from the folk – the common people. Sometimes, we actually know who wrote a folk song – “Dixie” was written by Dan Emmett, and “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” was written by Ada Habershon and Charles Gabriel. Mostly, folk songs are favorites that almost everyone learns and remembers. Since the songs are favorites, but sometimes people forget the words, they make up their own – that’s why I learned two or three versions of some folk songs! It depends on which group I am playing with which version I need to remember.

The Big Book of Folksongs includes 125 folk songs from around the world. Sing with friends, play by yourself, or if you are a music teacher, use this collection to pass some folk songs on to the next generation!

For more information, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit our website at stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.

The Stanton’s Difference: 21 Day Trial 28 August, 2019

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music. This series, The Stanton’s Difference, highlights just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

a-cityscape-of-Columbus-Ohio.-1500x609Stanton’s is one of the largest sheet music retailers in the country, with tens of thousands of titles in stock. We understand that many of our customers can’t make it to our Columbus, Ohio location to peruse music, so we offer a 21 Day Trial service.

How It Works: Music can be secured with either a Stanton’s account or a credit card. We send you the in-stock materials you request, and you pay nothing but the shipping and handling costs. As long as the music is returned to us in NEW condition within 21 days, you are never charged. If you have specific titles you’d like to see, we will happily send those to you, or you can ask one of our knowledgeable staff members to select pieces for you based on concert theme, performance venue, type of group, etc.

try.gifWhat You Can Take On Trial (by department):
Choral, Handbell, Classroom General Music & Solo Vocal: You may take up to 20 single copies of octavos and/or up to 5 musicals, collections, or director’s scores.

Band, Orchestra and Instrumental: You may take up to six items on trial, including full arrangements, solos and chamber ensembles (only scores will be sent for titles appearing on the OMEA High School Large Group Contest List).

Piano/Keyboard: Up to five collections and/or 10 teaching pieces, one copy each. Popular sheet music is not available for 21 Day Trial. 75% (by dollar amount) of the piano music on trial must be purchased.

For more details about our 21 Day Trial, visit us online at stantons.com, or give us a call at 1-800-42-MUSIC!

Click here for more information on the STANTON’S DIFFERENCE!

The Stanton’s Difference: Big Enough to Serve Your Needs – Small Enough to Serve YOU 21 August, 2019

At Stanton’s, we know you have many choices when it comes to purchasing sheet music. This series, The Stanton’s Difference, highlights just a few of the many reasons why Stanton’s is the best place to buy music for your school, church, private studio or personal use!

tall StantonsWe’re Big Enough to Serve ALL Your Needs
– Stanton’s Sheet Music has direct access to all major and many minor, independent, and European publishers, allowing us to carry and order hundreds of thousands of print music titles for you.

Stanton’s e-Tools are designed to make your job easier! Use our Listening Library, Jukebox, YouTube channel, Wish List, and Digital Delivery features to compare and organize titles for your music program.

– Itemized purchase orders, bids, quotes, and large orders are no problem. We work with many schools around the country and U.S. International schools who “bulk order” over the summer.

– Besides providing music to customers all over the country, access to major publishers like Hal Leonard and Alfred combined with stantons.com gives Stanton’s Sheet Music global reach with numerous international orders and worldwide shipping destinations.

But Small Enough to Serve YOU
– Stanton’s Sheet Music is still a single location, family-owned store in downtown Columbus, Ohio. We do not have a separate warehouse or call center, and our website is just another way to shop for music with Stanton’s.

– We have three sales departments, each with a specific number of dedicated, specialized staff: Choral & Classroom Music, Band & Orchestra, and Keyboard & Pop. While anyone in a respective department can help you, if you find a specific staff member you like to work with, feel free to request them.

gm clinic 2018We are your customer service. We answer your phone calls and e-mails. We fill your orders and process your online orders. We personally handle your “sheet music emergencies.” We solve any problems should they arise. We will get to know you by name, and by working with you over time, get to know your program.

We are your partner in music education, performance, and ministry. We choose our Stanton’s Five Star Features to help make your job easier. We organize and conduct Stanton’s numerous clinics, workshops and reading sessions. We develop Stanton’s e-Tools with you, the music teacher, in mind.

We hope that over the course of this series we have given you some reasons to make Stanton’s your #1 choice for sheet music. If not, give us a call or place an order with us, and see why Stanton’s Sheet Music has been Sheet Music Specialists since 1960!

Click here for more information on the STANTON’S DIFFERENCE!

How to Sit on a Rock-Native American Flute 15 August, 2019

22195Mrecommended by Barb M., Keyboard and Folk Music Specialist

First Lessons: Native American Flute – How to Sit on a Rock by Andrew Bishko
New owners of the Native American Flute are often told to go “sit on a rock” and teach themselves how to play. Through eight lessons introducing the technique and theory of both the outer and inner “game” of Native American Flute improvisation, players of all levels learn to express the music growing inside themselves. The exercises in this volume are presented in fingering diagrams and Nakai TAB-an easy-to-learn derivative of standard music notation most commonly used for Native American Flute. Includes access to online audio.

Personally, I find my Native flutes to be my improvisational and meditative instruments. As a player of several other woodwind instruments, it was not difficult to learn to play another woodwind. One afternoon when I was playing background music for a garden show, I took my Native flute out, closed my eyes, and began to improvise. I became aware after a few minutes that it was very still around me. I opened my eyes as I continued to play, and several people were quietly standing and listening to me. Native flute is a very relaxing instrument to play, and “How to Sit on a Rock” is a wonderful book to help you learn to play one.

For more information about this Native flute book, or others like it, call us at 1-800-42-MUSIC, email us at keyboard@stantons.com, or visit us online at stantons.com. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Barb M. has worked in the Keyboard Department at Stanton’s since 1981. An active folk musician in the Columbus area, Barb also works with ensembles at her church and plays in the Columbus State Concert Band. In her spare time, Barb loves working with animals and computer games.