News & Views Wednesday, May 07, 2025

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

The Musical Bookshelf: Connecting Diverse Children’s Literature with Music by Dr. Suzanne Hall
Go on a journey where literature comes alive with the magic of music! This cross-curricular resource explores 20 carefully curated children’s books (most of which are probably in your school library). After reading the books aloud, explore these activities and songs that reinforce musical skills for kindergarten through 5th-graders. Author and pedagogue Dr. Suzanne Hall includes engaging conversation starters, step-by-step teaching procedures, creative extensions, music and language arts National Standards, plus downloadable projectables, worksheets, and templates. The selected stories reflect a kaleidoscope of cultures and provide pathways to create, perform, respond, and connect in meaningful ways.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly by John Feierabend/illustrated by Isiah Timmons
Prepare to be amazed by one old lady’s bizarre and enormous appetite in this delightfully silly folk song, part of a series of captivating picture books based on beloved songtales from the great American folk tradition. Each verse of this classic cumulative tale gets longer and longer as the old lady progressively consumes larger and more improbable animals, a comedic premise that has delighted audiences for centuries. In this cleverly illustrated version by artist Isiah Timmons, no animals were harmed. Instead, Timmons has created a fantastical “Candyland” inhabited by animal-shaped sweets on which the old lady feasts. How many will she eat before it’s too late? Like the other folk song picture books in the series, “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly” includes the song’s history, notation, and a link to a free MP3 download of the song.

Carnival of the Animals Storybook by Denise Gagne
This beautiful storybook brings “Carnival of the Animals” to life! Combining entertaining poems, illustrations, and the captivating music of “Carnival of the Animals” by Camille Saint-Saëns, this one-of-a-kind book encourages expressive reading and helps young ones build their vocabulary. Parents can join the fun by inviting their kids to move like the animals and then discuss the music with them while working on the accompanying coloring worksheets.

Peter and the Wolf Storybook by Denise Gagne
This beautiful storybook is a gentle retelling of the story of Peter and the Wolf. It’s a musical story where all the characters are represented by different instruments of the orchestra. Combining an entertaining story, illustrations, and the captivating music of “Peter and the Wolf” by Sergei Prokofiev, this one-of-a-kind book encourages expressive reading and helps build vocabulary.

Stories That Sing TOO! (Storybook Lessons That Teach Music and Literacy) by Jeanette Shorey
“Stories That Sing TOO!” is a second collection of music and literacy lessons based on 11 storybooks. It includes songs and musical activities for PreK – Grade 5 and activities that integrate literacy and music skills. Your students will love these fun, interactive lessons that allow them to sing, move, and play instruments while learning. These activities are all designed around vibrant, animated stories that children love, full of lively characters and big adventures. These activities will keep your students engaged and listening while they learn music skills, comprehension skills, sequencing skills, new vocabulary, and so much more. If you don’t have all of the storybooks, most are available to read along with on YouTube, or you can purchase them using the QR codes in the book.

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.

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

Pop Harmony Stacks for Choir arr. Roger Emerson
The “Grace Kelly” challenge on TikTok involved users harmonizing to the hit 2007 Mika song using multilayered tracking to overlap their vocal lines one on top of the other, moving up the scale until the final, high notes which complete the exercise. This collection from Pop maestro Roger Emerson imagines nine more of these challenges with certified “bangers,” arranged in 4 to 6 parts for your choir!

The Performance Kit includes 10 collections along with free access to the ChoralMix lessons for each song online (sharable with all members of the choir) for a complete digital interface with audio backing tracks and separate vocal lines for learning!

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.

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Reverse of the Curse by Craig Skeffington, Grade 4
A home run for audiences and players alike! Dedicated to the World Series victories by the Boston Red Sox, this straight ahead swinger starts hot and never lets up. “Reverse of the Curse” is a very clever minor blues that features interesting harmonies and pedal points. A driving rhythm out section that will challenge the horn players sets up a kicking shout chorus. All of this excitement is generated with trumpet parts that only briefly extend above the staff. A perfect chart for bands of all levels!

Reach Out by Matt Harris, Advanced
This funky rock tune includes conservative ranges, fully written-out rhythm section parts, and repetitive rhythms which makes it playable by advancing groups through professionals. The piano has a solo, and then is followed by the solo section that includes chord changes in all parts. Scoring calls for 5 trumpets, optional vibes, and SATTB saxophones, however an optional alto part is provided for the soprano part. A guitar chord charts is included in each set.

I’ve Paid My Dues by Mike Tomaro, Medium Advanced
Commissioned by Evanston Township High School, this burning medium advanced original will make a great program choice. An abundance of wonderful ensemble writing combines with a strong melodic line to create a solid foundation for the open solo sections. The driving shuffle groove will have the audience just as involved in the performance as the musicians.

One More by Tom Kubis, Grade 3
Shifting between shuffle and hip-hop feels and groovin’ hard from start to finish, this exciting closer for advancing groups is recorded on the Tom Kubis album “Live And Unleashed.” Dense ensemble passages, well articulated swing figures, sax and brass solis, an open ad lib solo section for alto saxophone, trumpet and/or trombone, and a really big finish are highlights. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set.

Charleston Shuffle by Andy Farber, Grade 3
A bright shuffle tune by New York composer Andy Farber that features lots of appealing ensemble writing. Unique writing for trumpets in mutes and tasty scoring give this tasty arrangement lots of appeal. Solo section includes solos for bari sax and guitar but can easily be opened up for any soloists of your choosing. Top trumpet range is A above the staff and 1st trombone goes to G above the staff.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

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

Spirituals Dialect: A Practical Guide for Singers, Voice Teachers, and Choral Conductors by Rosephanye Powell
Rosephanye Powell’s brilliant guide helps singers sing, interpret, and express the meaning and beauty of the spiritual. While it is written as a quick reference for the independent singer, vocal instructor, or choral director, it can be a valuable resource for private voice lessons, diction courses, studio classes, choral classes, and any setting where spirituals are studied and performed – a brilliant resource provided by a world-class singer, composer, arranger, teacher, and scholar.

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.

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

Unleashing the Potential of the Musician’s Body (Timani: Anatomy and Exercises for Healthy Playing and Singing) by Tina Margareta Nilssen
“Unleashing the Potential of the Musician’s Body” offers clear and practical tools for music professionals, students, educators, movement specialists, and therapists working with musicians. You’ll learn about relevant anatomy – in particular, joints, muscles, and fascia – and get information on how the brain and movement are linked together. You’ll find dozens of illustrated performance-targeted exercises for all parts of the body, with specific instructions for different types of instruments as well as for singers. The exercises are designed to optimize movement and make playing or singing more effortless and expressive – and through this, access more musical potential. This book also touches on subjects such as warm-ups, pain, healthy living, and self-care tips.

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.

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

Teaching Music in a New Age: Our Time Is Now! by Milton Allen
A post-pandemic teaching environment, a new generation of students, stress, depression, anxiety and fear, and a world of pressures and still we’re supposed to teach and make beautiful music. But in all the discussion, programs, and plans, what happened to those who stand in front of the students: US? And does music even matter? It does. Most importantly, so do YOU. Through a combination of stories, parables, and research, Dr. Milt Allen weaves a Zen-like tapestry that covers a broad range of subjects, yet all coming back to those who stand in front. Whether you need to rethink, renew, recover, or rediscover, there’s sure to be something for you in this incredible journey into what really matters.

Topics include:
• Dealing with fear and anxiety
• How little things can pull the rug out from under big things
• Understanding generational demographics for better teaching
• Brain development, adolescence, music, and your students
• Getting rid of “excellence”
• Performance-based philosophies versus participatory ones
• Taking chances
• Being selfish and self-preservation
• Graduate study
• Persistence
• Handling challenges
• Plus mountains, bicycles, stuffed bears, cancer, Jeff Coffin, ANTs, hamster tales, and more

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.

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

Ave Maria by Anton Bruckner, SATB divisi a cappella
This awe-inspiring masterwork by Anton Bruckner is an outstanding example of Romantic era choral literature for today’s choirs.

Cantate Domino by Giovanni Croce, SATB a cappella
An excellent example of Renaissance choral literature.

Exultate Deo by Alessandro Scarlatti, SATB a cappella
Perpetual motion and lovely rich sonorities make this a must for choirs of any size. A cappella, but very easy to sing, this is an extremely worthy addition to the repertoire. Ideal for concerts, festivals or contests.

Heilig by Felix Mendelssohn, SATB double choir a cappella
Set for double choir, this work is wonderful for the larger high school or community choir.

Lift Thine Eyes to the Mountains (from Elijah) by Felix Mendelssohn, SSA a cappella
Mendelssohn’s lovely trio from “Elijah” has become a standard for women’s choral groups everywhere.

Locus Iste by Anton Bruckner, SATB a cappella
Bruckner’s simple but profound motet is reminiscent of the Renaissance masters, but with a harmonic palette firmly placed in the Romantic era. The Latin text comes from the Mass celebrated at the dedication of a church: This place was made by God, a priceless mystery, it is beyond reproach.

Sure on This Shining Night by Morten Lauridsen, SATB with piano
“Sure on this shining night of starmade shadows round, kindness must watch for me this side the ground…” In this third movement of his song cycle “Nocturnes,” Morten Lauridsen’s flowing music captures all of the beauty and wonder of James Agee’s poem. This is a superb composition for better choirs!

This Little Babe (from A Ceremony of Carols) by Benjamin Britten, 3-part treble with harp or piano
This exciting Christmas carol comes from Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols.” The accompaniment, written for harp, may also be played by keyboard.

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.

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

Visualizing Music: An Illustrative Guide to Exceptional Rehearsals and Performance by David Kish
What could a musical style LOOK like to a visual learner? Can visual images improve conceptual understanding of INTONATION, BALANCE, and BLEND? This text provides tools and techniques for visualizing complex musical ideas using simple shapes and illustrations and provides immediate resources to explain complex musical concepts in practical terms. Imagery is a powerful tool that transitions musicians from PREPARATION to PERFORMANCE – analytical to the artistic – seamlessly moving from notes and rhythms to shaping phrases and sensing music’s aesthetic beauty.

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.

Leading as a Conductor: With Integrity of Heart and Skillful Hands by Tobin Stewart
Conducting is more than gesture, technique, and score study. Who we are as conductors is also critically important because character, integrity, and personality directly influence the way we connect with others.

Drawing from a deep well of research and years of experience, conductor and teacher Tobin Stewart identifies fourteen essential qualities of great leaders – vision, humility, and passion, to name a few – and applies these to leadership on and off the podium.

He shares candidly about his own successes and failures, and offers practical strategies, stories, quotes, and reflection questions designed to build character and develop the intangible traits of effective, compassionate leaders.

Equally suited for personal or classroom use, “Leading as a Conductor: With Integrity of Heart and Skillful Hands” closes the gap between technique and the heart and soul of being a conductor. A must-read for instrumental and choral educators at any stage of their career.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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

The Musical Bookshelf: Connecting Diverse Children’s Literature with Music by Dr. Suzanne Hall
Go on a journey where literature comes alive with the magic of music! This cross-curricular resource explores 20 carefully curated children’s books (most of which are probably in your school library). After reading the books aloud, explore these activities and songs that reinforce musical skills for kindergarten through 5th-graders. Author and pedagogue Dr. Suzanne Hall includes engaging conversation starters, step-by-step teaching procedures, creative extensions, music and language arts National Standards, plus downloadable projectables, worksheets, and templates. The selected stories reflect a kaleidoscope of cultures and provide pathways to create, perform, respond, and connect in meaningful ways.

Stories That Sing TOO! by Jeanette Shorey
“Stories That Sing TOO!” is a second collection of music and literacy lessons based on 11 storybooks. It includes songs and musical activities for PreK – Grade 5 and activities that integrate literacy and music skills. Your students will love these fun, interactive lessons that allow them to sing, move, and play instruments while learning. These activities are all designed around vibrant, animated stories that children love, full of lively characters and big adventures. These activities will keep your students engaged and listening while they learn music skills, comprehension skills, sequencing skills, new vocabulary, and so much more. If you don’t have all of the storybooks, most are available to read along with on YouTube, or you can purchase them using the QR codes in the book.

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.

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

Choir-tivities: Inspired Ideas for Non-Rehearsal Days by Krista Hart
Non-rehearsal days – the day after a concert, the gap between a December performance and holiday break, the last week of the school year, or when lots of singers are absent. Time is too precious not to fill these periods with meaningful learning. This creative assortment of activities, projects, and games is designed to build student musicianship and social-emotional skills while helping you make an intentional plan for every meeting. Craft a rich and resonant choral experience even when you can’t rehearse. Plus, no more “movie days” when you’re out – you’ll have engaging sub plans ready to go!

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.

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Song of Solace by Ryan Nowlin, Grade 4
“Song of Solace” was written in memory of a specific person, but its message of love and hope in the time of tragedy applies to all of us. A simple melody in the solo flute is expanded into a soaring melody in the horns at the climax. This emotional work allows the band to expand their technique and musicality.

This Is My Crazy Student Life by PinkZebra, Grade 3
This one is a romp! An upbeat and fun piece that depicts the comically over-scheduled lives of modern students and the perseverance they need to make it through an average day. The quirky orchestrations and catchy melodies will resonate with students and audiences alike.

Stay by Randall Standridge, Grade 2
Part of the unBroken Project, this piece is intended to be an anthem of hope, love, and understanding for those who find it challenging to go on in the face of adversity and for those who sometimes feel that the weight of the world is too much to bear. The piece carries a paraphrase of that message at the top of the score and on all of the parts: “Hey you. The one playing this. The world is better with you in it.”

Scream by Randall Standridge, Grade 1.5
“Scream” is a bombastic work for concert band that utilizes three main components to create its soundscape: a 12-tone row, an octatonic scale (created by alternating whole and half steps), and the sounds of screaming (both from our human performers and from a nifty little instrument with the best name ever: The Aztec Death Whistle!). The three elements combine to make a highly dissonant, energetic piece of music whose main purpose is to channel the negative emotions of the performers into something exciting for themselves and the audience.

Hi! by William Owens, Grade 2.5-3
In honor of a student’s signature enthusiastic greeting that extended to everyone they met, this spirited and joyful composition unfolds with engaging melodies, energetic rhythms, and a fun percussion groove. The music ultimately arrives at a tranquil yet cheerful conclusion.

Ascent from Darkness by Rossano Galante, Grade 4
This dramatic, cinematic piece pays homage to the human race that endured the pandemic. A stunning and captivating work with its relentless rhythm and uplifting melodic lines, it is a perfect musical landscape that depicts strength, tenacity, and compassion.

Alegría by Carol Brittin Chambers, Grade 3.5
Carol Brittin Chambers’ latest concert band work, “Alegría,” is a joyous celebration of life and happiness. Drawing inspiration from the word’s meaning in several languages, Chambers’ music takes listeners on a journey of ups and downs, with moments of high energy and lightheartedness. With a nod to circus music and Latin fanfares, “Alegría” showcases Chambers’ skillful use of instrumentation, including the vibrant tambourine!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

Everyday Music Making for Babies by Connie Greenwood and Bronwyn Lawson
The intimacy of sharing musical moments with young children is one of life’s precious joys – and research points to the importance of music for a child’s growing brain.

Just as a treasured cookbook from a great-grandmother guides you in recreating a cherished meal, this book is your companion for everyday music making with your little one, filled with nourishing favorites. Each time-tested song and rhyme harnesses the wisdom of generations of caregivers and is filled with wonder.

Think of this as your musical cookbook. Consult the “recipe” and follow each step carefully as you use a rhyme or song with your baby. To help, this book includes:
• Recordings and videos available via QR code.
• Research about the benefits of music and how babies become musical.
• Techniques to use with the different song types (for example, bounces for a newborn, how to keep the beat on tiny bodies, lullabies for sleep time).
• Handwritten tips and ideas about how to create a musical home.
• Music notation with lyrics and chords.
• Pages to document favorite songs and rhymes from your own culture as a keepsake for your family.

“Everyday Music Making for Babies” empowers parents and caregivers to build a beautiful connection with their baby through music.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Stay by Randall Standridge, Grade 2
Part of the unBroken Project, this piece is intended to be an anthem of hope, love, and understanding for those who find it challenging to go on in the face of adversity and for those who sometimes feel that the weight of the world is too much to bear. The piece carries a paraphrase of that message at the top of the score and on all of the parts: “Hey you. The one playing this. The world is better with you in it.”

Blackthorn March by Randall Standridge, Grade 1.5
Return to the Darklands with this exciting Grade 1 march. Dark harmonies and precise articulations combine to paint a portrait of Lady Blackthorn, the mysterious figure who rules the outer edges of the kingdom. Mixing elements of traditional march structure with a cinematic flair, this work will be an excellent introduction to the genre for younger and developing musicians and will be a perfect choice for your next festival or concert performance!

Heartland March by Randall Standridge, Grade 2
Take a trip down home in this dazzling work that mixes bluegrass music with the traditional march structure. Fiddle and folk harmonies inspire the catchy melodies, with engaging parts for all instrumentalists. With optional parts for authentic bluegrass instruments, this march will be sure to leave your audience’s toes tapping at your next concert or festival performance!

March of the Hobgoblins by Randall Standridge, Grade 1.5
Dance rhythms and creepy melodies combine in this new 6/8 concert march for young band! Inspired by the mischievous spirits of the British Isles, it paints a portrait of imps dancing and cavorting in a dark forest. Scored carefully to serve as an approachable introduction to compound meter, your performers and audiences will enjoy the catchy melodies, dark harmonies, and colorful scoring as every player gets the chance to shine!

Scream by Randall Standridge, Grade 1.5
“Scream” is a bombastic work for concert band that utilizes three main components to create its soundscape: a 12-tone row, an octatonic scale (created by alternating whole and half steps), and the sounds of screaming (both from our human performers and from a nifty little instrument with the best name ever: The Aztec Death Whistle!). The three elements combine to make a highly dissonant, energetic piece of music whose main purpose is to channel the negative emotions of the performers into something exciting for themselves and the audience.

Sirens by Randall Standridge, Grade 2.5
The mysterious and haunting voices of the sea serve as the inspiration for this next chapter in the “A Pirate’s Adventure” series. Having escaped Shadow Cove, Captain Fangg and his crew are lured to a mysterious isle by a siren’s song, where they are hypnotized until attacked by fiends and demons! Featuring singing moments for instrumental musicians, this programmatic work provides contrasting tempi and style to help develop your young musicians while telling an exciting pirate’s tale. Sure to be a favorite of audiences and players alike at your next concert or festival performance.

Son of Santa the Barbarian by Randall Standridge, Grade 2.5
After the “Snowpocalypse,” Santa the Barbarian is at odds with his son, Nicholas, who wants Christmas to be merry. Unwilling to relinquish his wintery hold on the holiday, the not-so-jolly old elf refuses. War breaks out between the two, represented by major and minor modes, combining elements of “Mars, the Bringer of War,” “Jolly Old St. Nicholas,” “Jingle Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” “Fum, Fum, Fum,” and more! Equal parts holiday cheer and epic movie battle music, this stirring climax to the “Santa the Barbarian” series is sure to bring a smile to performers, audiences, and lovers of Christmas carnage everywhere. “Ho! Ho! Who will win?”

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

A New Light by Tyler S. Grant, Grade 1.5 Flex
A sequel to his best-selling work “At Twilight,” Tyler S. Grant once again contributes a captivating lyrical work for developing bands. Colorful orchestrations have a chance to shine through modest ranges and easy technical demands. Intriguing harmonic progressions surrounded by memorable melodies will build maturity in your ensemble’s listening skills. A gorgeous and colorful work!

One Final Mission by Adrian B. Sims, Grade 2 ColorFlex Young Band
Inspired by the sounds of epic film and video game scores, this work takes the listener from the safety of home base right into the center of the action. An extremely approachable work for developing bands with a deceivingly massive and sophisticated sound.

Crusade by Vince Gassi, Grade 1.5 Flex Debut
Set in the Dorian mode, this ominous work opens with a foreboding theme and develops with vibrant and dramatic energy. It continues to build, culminating with a powerful, climactic ending. This FLEX title will add intrigue to your next concert!

With Honor by PinkZebra, Grade 2 Flex
Evoking reverence and gratitude, “With Honor” is a piece that resonates with an uplifting spirit of profound respect. Intended to be suitable for tributes, patriotic holidays, honors ceremonies, graduations, memorials, and general concerts. Available both in full concert band instrumentation and flexible instrumentation versions.

Tale of the Sword by Tyler S. Grant, Grade 2 Flex
Introduce or reinforce 6/8 time while portraying the Viking conquests! Using minimal rhythmic motivic material, this work creates an epic and cinematic soundscape. Students get to create the sounds of ocean waves as driving ostinatos propel listeners to dramatic musical scenes. Supplemental Rhythm & Melody Sheets are included to make the most of your students’ journey into 6/8. Intense and extremely engaging!

Wild Blue by Tyler S. Grant, Grade 1.5 Flex
Suspense, mystery, and adventure converge in this new work by Tyler S. Grant! Inspired by classic thrillers, this work seeks to find truth in a world of deceit and conflict. Certain to keep audiences on the edge of their seat!

As Shadows Fall by Rob Romeyn, Grade 2.5 Build-a-Band
Beautiful and heartfelt, “As Shadows Fall” is an outstanding lyrical work for younger bands from the talented pen of Rob Romeyn. This flexible instrumentation arrangement for the Barnhouse “Build-A-Band” series makes this outstanding work accessible to smaller and awkwardly-instrumented ensembles. A beautiful and memorable melody gradually grows amid changing textures and harmonies ultimately leading to a soaring and dramatic final climax. Ending as it began, with a gentle breeze, quietly fading away amid the setting sun. Many opportunities for lyrical technique and expressive qualities make this a superlative choice for concert or festival use.

Beyond the Stars by Ed Huckeby, Grade 2 Build-a-Band
Ed Huckeby’s “Beyond The Stars” has become a standard for young bands, and this flexible instrumentation edition for the Barnhouse “Build-A-Band” series makes this classic work accessible to ensembles with instrumentation challenges. The use of a modal melodic and harmonic structure with a familiar key as the tonal center makes for an impressive sounding concert work. The contrasting slow section allows the ensemble to showcase its developing legato style. Your students will love “Beyond The Stars” and your audiences will be amazed at how the band is playing “such difficult music!”

Captain Courageous by Rob Romeyn, Grade 2 Build-a-Band
“Captain Courageous” by Rob Romeyn has become a favorite of young bands, and this flexible instrumentation version for the “Build-A-Band” series makes this selection within reach of groups with imbalanced instrumentation. This powerfully bold and regal fanfare will make any ensemble sound mature beyond their years. It starts with a commanding and declarative opening statement. Memorable and flowing melodic lines then follow, making this the perfect vehicle for contest and festival use. Solid scoring and creative countermelodies provide a wonderful musical experience.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.

Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!

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

Boom! Whack! Pop! (Play-Along Pops for Boomwhackers or Barred Instruments) by Tom Anderson
Play along with your favorite pop tunes in this fun and engaging collection for tuned percussion tubes! Colorful Boomwhackers® are all you need to get started, and barred classroom instruments may be added to include even more students. This kickin’ collection features hit songs from a range of pop artists, including Aretha Franklin, Katy Perry, Journey, and more. Teaching suggestions, warm-up exercises, and full scores are provided. Access sound-alike accompaniment tracks online, as well as color-coded student parts. Warning: once they play one, they’ll beg to play ’em all!

Titles include: “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Wipe Out,” “Ghostbusters,” “Firework,” “Funkytown,” “Think,” “Eye of the Tiger,” and “Mamma Mia.”

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.