News & Views Monday, June 30, 2025

Breaking Through: Disrupting Barriers to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access with a Social Emotional Learning Approach to Music Education by Edward Varner
A growing number of music and arts teachers are embracing the natural alignments between music education, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA). However, these objectives too often run the risk of becoming amorphous, misused, or catch-all efforts lacking authenticity and meaning.

In “Breaking Through,” author Edward Varner helps music teachers understand the purpose of SEL, how it intersects with DEIA, and how to promote quality and equitable experiences for all students. The book is divided into three sections:
• Groundwork looks at music education as a matter of equity and identifies the natural alignments between SEL and DEIA.
• Avenues for Disruption offers strategies to make music education mindful, meaningful, and manageable.
• Moving the Needle One Step at a Time identifies points of disruption and barriers to equity through an anti-racist lens.

Varner also explores how music teachers can use SEL to teach important life skills, including cooperation, communication, positive interactions, responsibility, impulse control, and accepting consequences, among others.

Music educators play a vital role in students’ lives and education. And through intentional SEL instruction, they empower their students and communities to break through and disrupt barriers to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access.

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

Choral Charisma: Singing with Expression by Tom Carter
“Choral Charisma” presents an accessible yet comprehensive approach to singing with expression. Written for directors, singers, and teachers at all levels, the book presents techniques and insights empowering the reader to bring even more humanity to their craft. The heart, mind, body, and spirit can play together to make singing even more fulfilling – for you and your audience.

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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.

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.

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recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Small Band, BIG SOUND by Chris DeVona
Small bands can be great bands! “Small Band, Big Sound” is an indispensable guide for success in middle and high school band programs with students of all ability levels. It addresses the day-to-day challenges of finding and creating appropriate repertoire, adapting music for playability, establishing tone and blend with unconventional instrumentation, and rehearsing effectively with a small group. Every student deserves the opportunity to perform at their highest potential, regardless of the size of their band program. This text is designed to prepare music educators with readily accessible tools to create those experiences.

Highlights include:
• An overview of available flex band music and how to select the most appropriate format for your ensemble
• Several model ensembles showing how to assign parts for maximum effect with flex band music
• An illustrated step-by-step guide to creating your own flex band music
• A model for creating custom arrangements, including multiple worked-out example excerpts
• Suggested repertoire resources for finding and choosing appropriate music to arrange
• Tips and tricks for adapting and modifying music to be playable by smaller groups
• Discussion on establishing tone quality and blend with irregular instrumentation
• Information on designing and rehearsing small marching band programs

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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

Together in Song Volume 2: Concert Repertoire for Three-Part Mixed Choirs by Jerry Estes, Greg Gilpin, Victor C. Johnson, Mary Lynn Lightfoot & Mark Patterson
These fully reproducible collections are both unique in value and a great resource for exceptional concert pieces for Three-part Mixed choirs. This collection is fully reproducible and includes an Accompaniment MP3 for each title. Featuring the works of today’s leading educational choral composers, these collections offer a wide array of diverse musical styles while being a budget-friendly resource. Titles include: “I Will Lift My Voice and Sing!,” “A Joyful Alleluia,” “Firefly,” “Little Innocent Lamb,” “Sisi Kushangilia,” “A Call for Peace,” “An Irish Blessing,” and “Elijah Rock.”

Cantate Hodie! Easy Latin Repertoire for Unison & Two-Part Choirs by Mark Burrows, Greg Gilpin, Victor C. Johnson, Mary Lynn Lightfoot, Bryan Sharpe & Douglas E. Wagner
This reproducible collection features 6 Latin settings for unison and two-part choirs. Full of musically diverse selections, this collection will guide your young choirs as they build a strong foundation of choral technique. Translation and pronunciation guides precede each piece throughout the collection. The text and music pairings in this collection will offer “easy wins” along with slightly more challenging repertoire as your ensemble advances. Featuring unison, optional two-part, and two-part pieces, you can use this collection time and again as your singers’ skills develop. Titles include: “Cantate Hodie! (Sing Today),” “Sanctus,” “Lux Aeterna,” “Psallite, Exsultate,” “Ubi Caritas,” and “Cantate!”

Five Sea Songs by Daniel Brinsmead
In “Five Sea Songs,” five special texts have been brought together to initiate a musical voyage of discovery, fun, and introspection. These wonderful compositions are accessible enough to be performed by children’s choirs, while sophisticated enough to work for any level of treble choir. Titles include: “Sea Fever,” “Sailing Tonight,” “Little Fishes, Don’t Cry!,” “Full Fathom Five,” and “I Wish You a Kinder Sea.”

Indodana: Traditional South African Choral Music arr. Michael Barrett, Mbuso Ndlovu & Ralf Schmitt
This collection of fifteen songs from South Africa is a companion to the popular album from the University of Pretoria Camerata, “Indodana.” Hit arrangements by Michael Barrett, Mbuso Ndlovu, and Ralf Schmitt make up this distinguished reference resource for the choral library. Titles include: “Bayasibiza,” “Bonk’abaphandle,” “San’bonani/Namhla Kudibene,” “Nda wana,” “Umahlalela,” “Indodana,” “Kwaxabana Oxamu,” “Ngothando,” “Tuba,” “Ha Rese Re Bina,” “Mangisondele Nkosi Yam,” “Thixo Onothando,” “Ndikhokhele Bawo,” “Siyalobola Gogo,” and “Modimo.”

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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.

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

Just One Step by Daniel Brinsmead, SAB with piano and djembe
A great groove and positive lyrics make this engaging concert work a solid choice for SAB choirs with piano. Composed in a modern upbeat style, the djembe and piano drive the rhythmic feel that supports the speech-driven lyrics: “Just one step, one small step, can help you transform.”

I Want to Be the Sun by Mark Burrows & Coty Raven Morris, SAB with piano
Mark Burrows and Coty Raven Morris’ beautiful collaboration of “I Want to Be the Sun” has resulted in a whimsical yet highly relevant, and most importantly, FUN piece to sing. Appropriate throughout the year and for all choir sizes, the message of this delightful choral setting is sure to speak to all who sing and hear it!

Who Has Seen the Wind by Bruce W. Tippette, SAB with piano
Christina Rosetti’s well-known text is given life through this exciting new setting for SAB voices and piano. The rhythmic ostinato patterns paired against lyrical melodies will remain stuck in your singers’ heads long after rehearsal ends. With a driving piano accompaniment to support your singers and accessible voice parts, this piece is perfect for developing choirs.

As I Journey On by Chris Maunu, SAB with piano and djembe
Using words from the poem “Courage” by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, Chris creates an energetic and uplifting piece for young voices, middle school to high school. The piano and djembe add vitality and rhythm that support the encouraging theme.

Moonrise, Outer Banks by Mark Patterson, SAB with piano
The poetic, evocative original lyrics paint a stunning picture of a moonrise throughout the piece. Mark Patterson’s expert lyrical writing with capture musician and audience members alike.

Who I Want to Be by Coty Raven Morris/arr. Saleel Menon, SAB with piano
Coty Raven Morris’ inspiring “Who I Want to Be,” arranged by Saleel Menon, is ideal for mixed choirs of all abilities. Certain to be empowered by the rich messages found within and with solo or small group opportunities, your choir will love learning and performing this coming-of-age piece!

Crossroad by Reginal Wright, SAB with piano and optional violin duet
Reginal Wright’s emotional and uplifting “Crossroad” sets Robert Frost’s well-known poem “The road not taken.” A twinkling piano accompaniment supports the voices, and the optional violin duet floats above, expanding on figures from the vocal parts.

Regina Coeli by Dan Davison, SA(T)B or 2-part any combination with piano
Dan Davison’s wonderful setting of Regina Coeli is set here specifically for middle school singers or any choir with limited numbers of tenors and/or basses. The tenor doubles the soprano and the bass doubles the altos, each an octave lower, giving singers lots of added support. A fun and rhythmic setting that your singers will love.

Twa Burns Songs arr. Rory Boyle, SAB with piano
Rory Boyle’s “Twa Burns Songs” are arrangements of two traditional Scottish folk songs, setting words by Robert Burns. The lilting legato accompaniment of the first song, “Afton Water,” emulates the vivid description of the River Afton. The second song, “Ae Fond Kiss,” uses Scotch snap rhythms and matches the wistful character of the poem. Guidance on the pronunciation of Scots words is given in the leaflet.

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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.

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

Transforming Choral Singing: An Activist’s Guide for Choir Directors by Charles W. Beale
Choral conductors and clinicians often focus on honing the technical and artistic elements of their choir’s performance, but what is the true purpose of choral singing? Choral performances sound beautiful, but they also tell stories, “say something” to someone, and create change in them. In that fundamental sense, they are always activist.

In “Transforming Choral Singing: An Activist’s Guide for Choir Directors,” author Charles W. Beale draws from his nearly 20 years of leading major choirs in the LGBTQIA+ choral movement internationally as well as his long experience as a singer, organist, conductor, and educator to put forth a new vision for choral singing: to move audiences and change the world.

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.

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.

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

The Music Teacher’s Guide to Recruitment and Retention by Angela Ammerman
Successful music educators from rural, one-light towns and bustling cities provide innovative methods for recruiting and retaining students. From elementary ukulele ensembles to high school bands, orchestras, and vocal ensembles, the strategies within these pages will greatly assist in building a successful music program from the bottom up. The ideas in this highly engaging text will have your program bursting at the seams with eager and dedicated student-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.

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.

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About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.