News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Category: Organ Music

Organ Music of PDQ Bach: Honoring the Legacy of Prof. Peter Schickele 29 February, 2024

recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

Peter Schickele (1935-2024) was an American composer, musical educator, and parodist, best known for comedy albums featuring his music, which he presented as being composed by the fictional P.D.Q Bach, the “youngest and the oddest of the twenty-odd children” of Johann Sebastian Bach.

Little Pickle Book (Pöckelbüchlein) (S. 6) by P.D.Q. Bach/tastefully edited by Peter Schickele, for Organ, at least
1. Toccata et Fuga Obnoxia
2. Chorale Prelude: Ave Maria et Agnus Dei
3. Fantasia sopra “Fraülein Maria Mack”
4. Lullaby and Good Night

    Three Chorale-Based Piecelets (S. III) by P.D.Q. Bach/edited, in a highly organized fashion, by Peter Schickele, for Organ
    I. Chorale: “Orally”
    II. Chorale Prelude on an American Hymn for the Last Sunday Before the Fourth Day of the Seventh Month After New Year’s Eve
    III. Chorale Variations on “In der’ Nacht so hell der Petrus ist mein Freund”

    Sonata da Circo (Circus Sonata) (S. 3 Ring) by P.D.Q. Bach/whipped into shape by Peter Schickele, for Organ or Whatever
    I. Spiel Vorspiel
    II. Entrada Grande
    III. Smokski, the Russian Bear
    IV. Toccata Ecdysiastica

    Toot Suite (S. 212) by P.D.Q. Bach/scholarly edited by Peter Schickele, for Calliope or Organ, 4-hands
    I. Preloud
    II. O.K. Chorale
    III. Fuga Vulgaris

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    With High Delight: Organ Collections for Easter 20 February, 2024

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    With High Delight arr. Kenneth Kosche
    The title of this collection says it all. These seven settings are imbued with a sense of fun and vitality. The pieces are three to five pages in length. The vibrant, active nature of them precludes sight reading them in public (who does that?) but they are not daunting to learn. Titles include: “Awake, My Heart, with Gladness,” “Christ Is Alive! Let Christians Sing,” “Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain,” “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” “Now the Green Blade Rises,” “This Joyful Eastertide,” and “With High Delight.”

    Easter Glory! arr. Michael Shea
    Energize and enrich the glorious Easter experience with this compendium of exciting and brilliant preludes and postludes, all designed for the musical majesty of our risen Christ. Classic compositions, hymn tune arrangements and original creations leap off of the page in this festive collection – “Welcome, Happy Morning,” indeed! Titles include: “Joy Dawned Again on Easter Day,” “An Easter Fanfare,” “Fling Wide the Gates,” “Christ Is Risen Alleluia,” “Introduction Variation and Finale on St. Kevin,” “Hail to the King,” “He Is Risen He Is Risen,” “The Trumpet Shall Sound,” “The Strife Is O’er,” “The King of Glory,” “Prelude on Llanfair,” “Awake the Dawn Appears,” “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today,” “Easter Dialogue,” and “Welcome Happy Morning.”

    Five Preludes for Easter arr. David Schelat
    David Schelat always has a fresh approach (stylistically, rhythmically, or harmonically) to the tunes he uses, and this collection is no exception. If you think, “Oh, not THAT tune again,” you need to take another look because he will surprise you. EASTER HYMN is set to a lilting waltz, LANCASHIRE as an imitative trio, GAUDEAMUS PARITER as a lively dance, GELOBT SEI GOTT as a fugal setting with a cantus firmus in the pedal, and CHRIST IST ERSTANDEN as a baroque slow movement with a solo for cornet registration. Interesting and rewarding to play and hear.

    7 Intonations on Hymns for the Easter Season, Volume 2 arr. David Lasky
    We answered your requests for more of these extremely useful intonations on Easter hymns. Lasky uses these familiar tunes in intermediate level settings for organ. We’ve also included the optional trumpet parts. Hymn tunes in this volume are “Duke Street,” “Hyfrydol,’” “Hymn to Joy,” “Lasst uns Erfreuen,” “’Mit Freuden Zart,” “Surgit in Haec Dies,” and “Vruechten.” Useable throughout the church year.

    Raise the Glad Refrain arr. Kyle Johnson
    Kyle Johnson has written a joyful and versatile collection of organ settings for the Easter season that includes an optional trumpet score. Of medium length and difficulty, the pieces could be paired together to create a longer prelude or postlude. Titles include: “Alleluia! Sing to Jesus,” “Christ Is Alive! Let Christians Sing,” “Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands,” “Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain,” “Day of Delight and Beauty Unbounded,” “I Know That My Redeemer Lives!,” and “The Day of Resurrection.”

    Easter with Minimum Pedal arr. Edwin T. Childs
    Edwin T. Childs adds to his series of settings for minimum pedal, providing a collection of hymn tunes for the Easter season. Composed as a single stanza, these preludes are suitable as hymn introductions or service music. This collection will appeal to organists who have limited pedal abilities or seasoned organists who need something in a pinch. Titles include: “Long Before the World Is Waking,” “Christ Is Risen, Christ Is Living,” “Christ Is Arisen,” “Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands,” “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” “Alleluia! Jesus Is Risen,” “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today,” “I Am Content! My Jesus Ever Lives,” “Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain,” “O Sons and Daughters of the King (Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing),” “Alleluia, Alleluia! Hearts to Heaven,” “The Day of Resurrection,” “Now All the Vault of Heaven Resounds,” “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today, Alleluia,” “Christ Has Arisen, Alleluia,” “All the Earth with Joy Is Sounding,” “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today,” “These Things Did Thomas Count as Real,” “Our Paschal Lamb, That Sets Us Free,” “If Christ Had Not Been Raised from Death,” “This Joyful Eastertide,” “He’s Risen, He’s Risen,” “He Is Arisen! Glorious Word,” and “Make Songs of Joy.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Organ Music from ANNA LAURA PAGE 13 February, 2024

    more hymns pipes and praise anna laura page

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    More Hymns, Pipes & Praise arr. Anna Laura Page
    Contemporary worship songs have become integrated into traditional worship, and here’s a “second serving” of the skillful and tasteful blending of more popular worship songs with hymns for the organ. Titles include: “Awesome God (with All Glory, Laud, and Honor),” “Because He Lives (with Blessed Assurance),” “Before the Throne of God Above (with Great Is Thy Faithfulness),” “Blessed Be Your Name (with In Heavenly Love Abiding),” “El Shaddai (with What a Friend We Have in Jesus),” “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us (with And Can It Be),” “I Could Sing of Your Love Forever (with When In Our Music God Is Glorified),” “Open the Eyes of My Heart (with O Worship the King),” “10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) (with How Great Thou Art),” and “What a Beautiful Name (with Glorious Is Thy Name).”

    Hymns, Pipes & Praise arr. Anna Laura Page
    Ten medleys of hymns blended with praise songs very nicely arranged for organ. Titles include: “Amazing Grace (with Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone),” “Holy Is the Lord (with Lord, I Lift Your Name on High),” “My Jesus, How I Love Thee (with I Love You, Lord),” “How Great Thou Art (with How Great Is Our God),” “Fairest Lord Jesus (with As the Deer),” “No, Not One! (with Shout to the Lord),” “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (with There Is a Redeemer),” “O Worship the King (with Here I Am to Worship),” “Precious Lord, Take My Hand (with In Christ Alone),” and “Holy, Holy, Holy (with Holy Is the Lord).”

    Hymns, Pipes & Classics arr. Anna Laura Page
    Ten medleys of hymns blended with classic works by Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn and Mozart. Titles include: “Ash Grove (with Handel’s Thanks Be to God),” “Hyfrydol (with He Shall Feed His Flock),” “Gentle Mary Laid Her Child (with Sheep May Safely Graze),” “Infant Holy (with Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring),” “Fairest Lord Jesus (with Bach’s My Heart is Ever Faithful),” “Sweet Hour of Prayer (with Nocturne),” “My Faith Looks Up to Thee (with Ave Verum),” “St. Agnes (with Mendelssohn’s If With All Your Hearts from Elijah),” “Hanson Place (with Prelude in C Major by Bach),” and “Lancashire (with Allitsen’s The Lord Is My Light).”

    The King of Heaven arr. Anna Laura Page
    All five hymn tunes included in have one theme: Praise to God, the Father. These settings will offer great ideas to organists in planning service music, including preludes, postludes, and ideas for hymn introductions, alternate hymn harmonizations, and codas appropriate for congregational singing. Titles include: “I’ll Praise My Maker,” “Praise the Lord! Ye Heavens Adore Him,” “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” “Praise the Lord Who Reigns Above,” and “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven.”

    I Will Ever Sing to Thee arr. Anna Laura Page
    Anna Laura Page has created eight accessible arrangements of familiar hymn tunes, each primarily associated with a text related to the theme of music itself or singing. These useful pieces make excellent voluntaries throughout the church year and will be especially welcome for festival services that involve a musical focus. Titles include: “Amazing Grace,” “When in Our Music God Is Glorified,” “Fill the Earth with Music,” “How Can I Keep from Singing?,” “I Will Sing of My Redeemer,” “Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above,” “Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” and “When the Morning Stars Together.”

    And Through Eternity I’ll Sing On arr. Anna Laura Page
    From the creative spirit of Anna Laura Page comes this volume of hymn tune settings that resonate with themes most deeply felt during the Lenten and Holy Week seasons: grief, suffering, repentance, prayer, and contrition. Each of these nine spirituals is a masterpiece in miniature, drawing us all closer to the cross of Christ at this most sacred time of year. Titles include: “There Is a Balm in Gilead,” “What Wondrous Love Is This,” “Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?,” “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child,” “My Lord, What a Morning,” “Surely He Died on Calvary,” “Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley,” “He Never Said a Mumbalin’ Word,” and “I Am a Poor, Wayfaring Stranger.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    KING OF KINGS: A Celebration of Organ Music by Black Composers 06 February, 2024

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    King of Kings: Organ Music of Black Composers, Past and Present compiled and edited by James Abbington
    An important contribution to the repertoire for both the church organist and the recitalist! In this unique series you’ll find organ works by composers from the late 19th century to the present day.

    King of Kings Volume 1
    Titles include: “King of Kings” arr. Ralph Simpson; “A Little More Faith in Jesus” arr. John W. Work III, “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” arr. D.L. White, “Lord, Build Me a Cabin in Glory Land,” “Were You There,” and “Triumphal March of Heritage” by Uzee Brown Jr.; “Retrospection” by Florence B. Price; “Offertory” by H. Leslie Adams; “Talk About a Child That Do Love Jesus” arr. Calvin Taylor; “Arietta,” “Melody,” and “Elegy” by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor; and “Go Down, Moses” arr. W.C. Handy/adapt. Walter C. Simon.

    King of Kings Volume 2
    Titles include: “Fanfare and Chorale” by Calvin Fuller; “Prayer: An Offertory” by George Walker; “Adoration,” “A Pleasant Thought,” and “In Quiet Mood” by Florence B. Price; “Bye and Bye” and “Wade in duh Waddah!” arr. William Farley Smith; “Impromptu” by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor; “Give Me Jesus” arr. Marques L.A. Garrett; “Go Down, Moses,” “Yoruba Lament,” and “Joshua Fit de Battle ob Jericho” arr. Fela Sowande.

    King of Kings Volume 3
    Titles include: “Toccata on Good News” by Carl MaultsBy; “Prelude on I Am Thine, O Lord” by Monte Thomas; “Jubilate” by Fela Sowande; “Variations on a Theme by Ellie” by Trevor Weston; “Churchyard Chatter” by Uzee Brown Jr.; “Bread of Heaven” by William B. Cooper; “Fantasy on Walk Together, Children” by André J. Thomas; “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” by Carl Haywood; and “Postlude on Go, Tell It on the Mountain” by Norah Duncan IV.

    King of Kings Volume 4
    Titles include: “Fanfare and Fughetta for Organ” by Julius P. Williams; “Fanfare on DARWALL’S 148TH (Rejoice, the Lord Is King)” by Evelyn Simpson-Curenton; “Fantasia (The Resurrection)” by Eurydice V. Osterman; “Finale – Allegro (from Sonata No. 1 for Organ)” by Florence B. Price; “Fugue in F” by David Hurd; “Gospel Fancy (He Knows Just How Much We Can Bear)” by Phyllis Hall; “Kyrie” by Fela Sowande; “Listen to the Lambs” by Adolphus Hailstork; “Obangiji” by Fela Sowande; “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” by Eurydice V. Osterman; “Spirit Fantasy” by Carl Haywood; “There Is a Balm in Gilead” by Adolphus Hailstork; and “Ubi Caritas” by Norah Duncan IV.

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    The Road to Resurrection: Organ Music for Lent & Easter 25 January, 2024

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    From Ash Wednesday to Easter arr. Craig A. Penfield
    This is surely one of the most useful books created for the church organist. The long period of Lent leading to Easter requires special music for special services, and this collection fills the need. Craig Penfield has written ten pieces specifically for each Sunday in Lent, plus Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and, of course, Palm and Easter Sundays. All pieces are relatively brief and are set at the intermediate level. Perfect for every church organist! Titles include: “Prelude for Ash Wednesday,” “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” “A Lenten Psalm,” “Forty Days and Forty Nights,” “Sanctus,” “Agnus Dei,” “Hosanna!,” “The Last Supper,” “Golgotha,” and “Toccata for Easter.”

    Lent and Easter Miniatures for Organ arr. Nigel Williams
    New Zealand composer Nigel Williams presents these short and practical organ arrangements of familiar hymns tailored for the Lent and Easter seasons. These miniatures are easy to prepare and are perfect for seasonal voluntaries, especially when preparation time is short. Each piece, lasting no more than three minutes, maintains melodic clarity, and offers diverse moods suitable for preludes, postludes, offertories, and interludes. Titles include: “Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound,” “Guide My Feet,” “Jesus, Still Lead On,” “Forty Days and Forty Nights,” “All Glory, Laud, and Honor,” “My Song Is Love Unknown,” “Go to Dark Gethsemane,” “The God of Abraham Praise,” “Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain,” “Now the Green Blade Riseth,” “The King of Love My Shepherd Is,” “Voluntary on Ellacombe,” “This Joyful Eastertide,” “Toccata on Easter Hymn,” and “At the Lamb’s High Feast.”

    Lamb of God arr. David Cherwien
    Practical settings of hymns virtually every congregation sings. Titles include: “Beneath the Cross of Jesus,” “Go to Dark Gethsemane,” “Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless,” “Lord Jesus, Think On Me,” and “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”

    Hymns of the Cross arr. Janet Linker
    Six meditations for Lent or Communion. Titles include: “Ah! Holy Jesus,” “Were You There?,” “Pastorale on In the Cross,” “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed,” “In the Hour of Trial,” and “Beneath the Cross of Jesus.”

    The Road to Resurrection arr. Roberta Rowland-Raybold
    Roberta Rowland-Raybold takes us on a journey through Lent, Holy Week, and Easter in this collection of organ settings for the Paschal story. Thoughtful and expressive, these settings are useful organ voluntaries for this holy time of the liturgical year. Titles include: “Lift High the Cross,” “O Lord, throughout These Forty Days,” “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed,” “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” “Sing, My Tongue,” “Through the Night of Doubt and Sorrow,” “Easter Vigil Contemplation,” and “Day of Arising.”

    Lent Mosaics arr. Jacob B. Weber
    Continuing his “Mosaics” series, Jacob B. Weber provides six new preludes on familiar hymns for the time of Lent. These settings ponder the Passion of our Lord through intricate and serious writing and will help set the tone for worship during this penitential season. The collection features an ornamented AN WASSERFLÜSSEN BABYLON; a flowing HAMBURG; a somber HERZLIEBSTER JESU; a straightforward JESUS KREUZ, LEIDEN UND PEIN; a fugue on JESU, MEINES LEBENS LEBEN; and a pulsing O MEIN JESU, ICH MUSS STERBEN.

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    AUGSBURG FORTRESS: New Recommendations for Organ 16 January, 2024

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Sing the Year Round: Hymn Settings for Organ arr. Alan MacMillan
    This volume marks composer Allan MacMillan’s debut in the Augsburg Fortress catalogue. These settings work well as hymn introductions , but are equally as effective as short preludes or postludes. Titles include: “Dearest Jesus, at Your Word,” “Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing!,” “Ah, Holy Jesus,” “My Song Is Love Unknown,” “Now All the Vault of Heaven Resounds,” “Now to the Holy Spirit Let Us Pray,” “Of the Father’s Love Begotten,” “O Spirit of Life,” and “Songs of Thankfulness and Praise.”

    Come & Praise, Volume 3 arr. Mark Sedio
    This third volume is another collection of creative hymn introductions and voluntaries all written in an accessible style. Featuring a mix of hymn settings and free-composed works, these settings will work well as hymn introductions, preludes and postludes. Titles include: “All Depends on Our Possessing,” “As Newborn Stars Were Stirred to Song,” “Awake, My Soul, and with the Sun,” “Break Now the Bread of Life,” “Built on a Rock,” “By All Your Saints,” “Christ, the Life of All the Living,” “Come Down, O Love Divine,” “Come, Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove,” “Creating God, Your Fingers Trace,” “Hark! A Thrilling Voice Is Sounding,” “He Comes to Us as One Unknown,” “Lord Jesus, You Shall Be My Song,” “Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me,” “Love Has Come,” “My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” “Loving Spirit,” “O Day of Rest and Gladness,” “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” “Oh, That the Lord Would Guide My Ways,” “O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts,” “Praise the Lord! O Heavens,” “Prepare the Royal Highway,” “The Head That Once Was Crowned,” “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy,” “Trumpet Tune,” “’Twas in the Moon of Wintertime,” “We Give Thee but Thine Own,” and “What Is This Place.”

    Mixtures: Hymn Preludes for Organ arr. Robert J. Powell
    This collection of accessible hymn preludes are a great way to welcome the congregation. Powell has once again created a set of arrangements that are sure to be enjoyed. Tunes include: “Calvary,” “Detroit,” “Ebenezer,” “Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gott,” “Lasset uns mit Jesu ziehen,” “Machs mit mir, Gott,” “Morecambe,” “O Lamm Gottes, unschuldig,” “Sufferer,” and “Vater unser.”

    Sweet Is the Calm: Organ Settings on Hymns of Comfort arr. Karl Osterland
    From a time of isolation comes this beautiful collection by Karl Osterland of hymns that provide comfort. With a variety of tunes represented, these settings will be useful throughout the church year, as well as for healing services, funerals, and memorial services. Tunes include EVENTIDE, BALM IN GILEAD, SINE NOMINE, and VICTORY.

    Organ Impressions for the Church Year arr. Jacob B. Weber
    Jacob B. Weber has crafted a collection of fourteen organ settings useful throughout the church year, some with optional instrumental parts. Titles include: “All Glory, Laud, and Honor,” “Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound,” “Away in a Manger,” “For All the Saints,” “In Heaven Above,” “In Our Day of Thanksgiving,” “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee,” “Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word,” “Not unto Us,” “O Zion, Haste,” “On Christmas Night,” “Salvation unto Us Has Come,” “Up Through Endless Ranks of Angels,” and “We All Believe in One True God.”

    For All the Saints Vol. 2: Hymn Preludes for Funerals arr. Robert A. Hobby
    Here is a long-awaited sequal to Robert Hobby’s first volume. A great help to church musicians, Hobby offers hymns appropriate for memorial and funeral services into exceptionally well-crafted and fluid arrangements that can be learned in a snap. A must-have for beginner and expert alike! Tunes include: “Den signede dag,” “Hanson Place,” “Jesus Loves Me,” “Kuortane,” “Nun danket alle Gott,” “Resignation,” “St. Anne,” “Thompson,” “Toplady,” and “Vruechten.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Organ Music from OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 10 January, 2024

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Orb and Sceptre (Coronation March, 1953) by William Walton/arr. Robert Gower
    This famous march was commissioned for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The stirring music, skillfully conveyed in this arrangement, offers everything from sweeping melodies to playful syncopations and magnificent fanfares. This piece has often been paired with Walton’s “Crown Imperial.”

    Toccata by Gerre Hancock
    This virtuoso showpiece, dating from 2002, is worthy to stand alongside the Toccatas of Gigout and Boëllmann, and makes a superb conclusion to a service or recital on any size of organ. Its harmonic language is strongly tonal, but enlivened along the way by spicy touches, while its near-constant semiquaver motion lends it a breathless rhythmic drive.

    Carillon by Herbert Murrill
    Perfect as a showpiece voluntary, Herbert Murrill’s vibrant 1949 “Carillon” for organ is a miniature toccata that sets agile passagework above purposeful chords, with flashes of brilliance from the pedal department too. Its varied metres and busy textures propel the music to a triumphant conclusion.

    Sun Dance by Bob Chilcott
    “Sun Dance” is a slightly modified version of the fifth movement from the composer’s “Organ Dances,” originally conceived for organ solo, strings, and percussion. The music is for the most part celebratory in character, its spiky rhythms driven along by the pervasive alternation of 3/8 and 4/4 metrical groupings, although the composer also has fun with 7/8 and 5/8 patterns.

    Elegy for the Time of Change by Robert A. Harris
    “Elegy for the Time of Change” was written in response to the horrifying murder of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis police in May 2020. Imbued with singing melodies and richly expressive harmonies, the work makes several brief allusions to the spiritual “There is a Balm in Gilead,” offering a hopeful vision of healing and unity to a nation (and world) riven by mistrust and disparity.

    Scottish Legend by Amy Beach/arr. Robert Gower
    Amy Beach was celebrated during her lifetime as the foremost female composer of the United States, and her writing was frequently inspired by the folk music of America and Britain. Originally for piano, her “Scottish Legend” evokes Scotland in its wistful melody, adorned by Scotch snaps and conveying a folk-like atmosphere, but spiced up with a few late-Romantic harmonies. Contrasts between major and minor are also used to telling effect in this gently attractive piece, sympathetically arranged for the organ by Robert Gower.

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    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.

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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.

    “My Lord, What a Morning” and More NEW Organ Titles from Lorenz 29 December, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    My Lord, What a Morning (Spirituals for Every Season) arr. Roberta Rowland-Raybold
    Roberta Rowland-Raybold’s settings of eight spirituals for organ are a heartfelt tribute to the African American spiritual tradition, deeply influenced by Eileen Guenther’s book, “In Their Own Words.” The expressive dimension of the original words and music is at the forefront of these varied pieces, all of which are based on spirituals that are familiar and widely used in today’s churches. Titles include: “My Lord, What a Morning,” “Deep River,” “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me,” “River of Peace (I’ve Got Peace Like a River),” “Sweet Chariot (Swing Low, Sweet Chariot),” “Steal Away,” “Balm in Gilead,” and “Were You There.”

    Postludes for Rejoicing (Hymn Settings for Organ) arr. Douglas E. Wagner
    Colorful harmonies and vibrant rhythms characterize these joyous postludes by Douglas E. Wagner that are sure to bring a lively conclusion to any worship service. This collection includes nine pieces based on well-known hymn tunes, alongside one original composition. Titles include: “Postlude on Picardy,” “Postlude on Diadem,” “Recessional on Lasst uns erfreuen,” “He Is King of Kings,” “Fanfare and Postlude on Easter Hymn,” “Recessional,” “Trumpet Tune on Hyfrydol,” “Postlude on Faithfulness,” “One Lord, One Faith, One Birth,” and “Flourish on Salzburg.”

    All Things Now Living (Organ Settings for the Church Year) arr. Emma Lou Diemer
    Emma Lou Diemer’s renowned organ music requires no introduction, having been a staple in the repertoire of American organists for decades. This collection of brief hymn reflections showcases her distinctive creativity, offering seven varied tunes that span the seasons. Titles include: “Let All Things Now Living,” “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Prelude on Kingsfold,” “The Friendly Beasts,” “The King of Love My Shepherd Is,” and “What Wondrous Love Is This.”

    Hymns of Comfort (Reflective Organ Music for Worship) arr. Marvin Gaspard
    Marvin Gaspard, recognizing music’s profound role in providing comfort for all, has crafted seven soothing arrangements of beloved hymns, highlighting themes of hope and comfort. These gentle, expressive settings are ideal for enhancing worship services, weddings, and memorial services. Titles include: “Be Still, My Soul,” “Be Thou My Vision,” “Come Down, O Love Divine,” “God Will Take Care of You,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts,” and “The Lord’s My Shepherd.”

    Collage for Organ (Music for Worship or Recital) by David Lasky
    This collection by David Lasky offers a diverse array of characterful pieces, including free meditations, postludes, and hymn settings. Prioritizing practicality for worship, Lasky’s compositions span from the energetic “Trumpet Rondeau” to the emotive “Plaint” and the memorable “Postlude à la Rumba.”

    All Glory Be to Christ (Hymn Settings for Organ) arr. Alejandro D. Consolacion II
    This collection of seven hymn settings by Alejandro D. Consolacion II draws from his rich background as an organist, composer, and improviser both in the USA and his native Philippines. While six settings offer quiet, expressive preludes and offertories, the rendition of the Welsh hymn tune CWM RHONDDA is a lively, sparkling scherzo that builds to full organ. Titles include: “All Glory Be to Christ,” “This Is My Father’s World,” “Fairest Lord Jesus,” “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer,” “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” “The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended,” and “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Expand Your Organ Library 12 December, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    The Ultimate Organ Book
    This collection is a comprehensive compilation of organ music including a total of 151 titles. It is perhaps the most exhaustive volume of its type to have ever been published. The compiler has given careful attention to the needs of the church organist for interesting and practical organ literature of varying levels of difficulty for weddings, funerals, ordinary times in the church year, and for special seasons and days.

    400 Last Verses
    This entirely revised and reset edition of Noel Rawsthorne’s famous collection of 400 last-verse harmonies matches keys found in most recent major hymn books as well as those that have been in use for many years. You will find colourful, manageable arrangements requiring only a moderate technique.

    The Essential Collection for the Church Organist
    Edited and compiled by Jane Holstein, this essential collection contains 55 organ settings for the entire Church Year, as well as for weddings. The list of composers represents some of Hope’s best keyboard writers, and the tune index allows for quick, easy referencing. The level of difficulty ranges from easy to moderately difficult and the title selection presents a treasury of well-known hymns. Includes settings by: John Behnke, Doug Wagner, John Ferguson, Gordon Young, Joel Raney, Kenneth Lowenberg, Eleanor Whitsett, Sue Mitchell-Wallace, Don Hustad, and others!

    The Essential Organist for Manuals
    The bestselling original has been revised and enlarged with 10 more popular pieces that are requested for weddings, funerals and other special occasions – offering a bumper total of 70. A fabulous resource for the parish organist.

    Essential Book of Funeral Music for Organ
    This generous collection includes the fifty most popular and useful pieces for funerals and memorial services. They are arranged to be easily playable, requiring the minimum of practice for a busy organist.

    The Oxford Book of Wedding Music
    “The Oxford Book of Wedding Music” is the definitive collection of the most frequently requested organ music for weddings. All organists have their own particular favorites, but this volume brings together the small and select group of pieces that couples choose again and again: music that has stood the test of time, in practical arrangements that are designed to last.

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    What Child Is This: Piano/Organ Duets for Christmas 08 December, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    What Child Is This? arr. Ron Sprunger & Linda Sprunger
    Featuring the creative writing skills of veteran arrangers Ron and Linda Sprunger, this diverse and sparkling addition to the Christmas repertoire for organ and piano duets is a treasure. Classic Christmas melodies and yuletide favorites are included in this rich collection. Two copies are required for performance. Titles include: “What Child Is This?,” “Adoration,” “He Is Born, the Divine Christ Child,” “O Holy Night,” “Manger Carols,” “Lo! How a Rose E’er Blooming,” “Go, Tell It on the Mountain,” “The First Noel,” and “Love Has Come!”

    The Sunday Morning Organist, Volume 11: Christmas Duos
    This Christmas edition of the Sunday Morning Organist includes 14 arrangements for organ and piano. Classic carols capture the spirit of the season, and provide a memorable experience for your congregation. Featured in the collection are traditional Christmas hymns as well as show-stopping seasonal suites that can be used as both preludes and postludes. Bring in good tidings for all with Organ and Piano Christmas Duos. Title include: “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Joy to the World,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Silent Night,” and more.

    A Christmas Festival arr. Jerry van der Pol
    Organ/Piano duet teams will enjoy this easy to play, energetic medley of familiar Christmas season tunes. Church congregations will enjoy the beauty and energy it adds to worship services as well. Tunes used are: “Shepherds, Shake Off Your Drowsy Sleep,” “As Lately We Watched,” and “Still, Still, Still.” Two parts are included in each cover.

    Noel! He Is Born arr. Marilynn Ham & Lyndell Leatherman
    This festive collection of organ and piano duets combines the talents of Marilynn Ham and Lyndell Leatherman. Based on familiar Christmas carols, the duets provide partners with bold options for their worship services. Titles include: “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing,” “Sing We Now of Christmas,” “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen,” “He Is Born, the Divine Christ Child,” “I Saw Three Ships,” and “The First Noel.”

    What Shall I Give to the Child? arr. David Sarandon
    This compendium of Christmas arrangements brings together the talents of five masters of the genre, such as John Innes, Gilbert M. Martin, and Douglas E. Wagner, to provide organ-and-piano-duet partners with a season’s worth of glorious settings. Including Advent as well as Christmas titles, this book will become an annual favorite at your church. Two copies are required for performance. Titles include: “What Shall I Give to the Child?,” “Once in Royal David’s City,” “The First Nowell,” “Of the Father’s Love Begotten,” “Angels from the Realms of Glory,” “I Wonder as I Wander,” “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence,” and “What Child Is This?.”

    Come to Bethlehem (Sparkling Carol Duets Reflecting the Colors of Christmas) arr. Douglas E. Wagner
    In a refreshing departure from traditional organ and piano offerings, Doug Wagner has created six uniquely stylized carol-based works that display the wide range of tonal colors and emotions that this versatile combination brings to the worship or concert setting. From the sparkling strains of “What Shall I Give to the Child?,” to the introspective meanderings of “I Wonder as I Wander,” the music of Christmas is presented with skill and imagination, idiomatically representative of each instrument. We hope that you will find this diverse collection as we have, fun to play, musically satisfying, and full of the sounds that warm the heart and delight the ear this joyous time of year. Two copies are required for performance. Titles include: “What Shall I Give to the Child?,” “On Christmas Night,” “I Wonder as I Wander,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Festival Hymn Collections for Organ 21 November, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    The Coral Ridge Festival Hymn Collection, Volume 1 by Samuel Metzger
    This collection includes 15 well-known hymns with optional descants for use with congregations and choirs. These settings have been used in the worship services at the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and have been collected for this volume. Suggestions are made in the collection for ways to incorporate a variety of instruments. Tunes include: “Adelaide,” “Darwall’s 148th (Darwall),” “Ellacombe,” “Foundation,” “Grosser Gott,” “Hymn to Joy,” “Italian Hymn,” “Laudes Domini,” “Lyons,” “Madrid (Spanish Hymn),” “Marion,” “Nicaea,” “St. Anne,” “St. Denio,” and “St. Gertrude.”

    The Festival Hymn Collection, Volume 2 by Samuel Metzger
    Festival verse settings of well-known hymns with optional descants for use with congregations and choirs. For each hymn an introduction, standard verse setting, often an interlude, and a concluding stanza are provided. Perfect for celebratory occasions or just to add a little spice in your hymn recipes. Tunes include: “Antioch,” “Aurelia,” “Crusader’s Hymn,” “CWM Rhondda,” “Diademata,” “Gloria,” “Hyfrydol,” “Lancashire,” “Lasst uns erfreuen,” “Regent Square,” “Sagina,” “St. Christopher,” “Terra Beata,” “Veni Emmanuel,” and “Webb.”

    The Festival Hymn Collection, Volume 3 by Samuel Metzger
    Following the success of the first two volumes, Volume 3 contains festival verse settings of well-known hymns with optional descants for use with congregations and choirs. For each hymn an introduction, standard verse setting, often an interlude, and a concluding stanza are provided. Perfect for celebratory occasions. Tunes include: “Andrews,” “Azmon,” “Coronation,” “Duke Street,” “Germany,” “Hendon,” “Lauda anima,” “Message,” “Mit Freuden zart,” “Nettleton,” “New Britain (Amazing Grace),” “Revive Us Again,” “Solid Rock,” “St. Catherine,” and “To God Be the Glory.”

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    CHRISTMAS Music for Organ 14 November, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    People, Look East arr. William Ringham
    William Ringham has created a lovely and wonderfully varied set of Advent and Christmas settings for organ. These accessible settings work in a variety of settings and would be a welcome addition to any library. Titles include: “All My Heart Again Rejoices,” “An Advent Prelude,” “Comfort, Comfort Now My People,” “Good Christian Friends, Rejoice,” “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” “Love Has Come,” “O Jesus So Sweet,” “People, Look East,” “Silent Night, Holy Night!,” and “Angels We Have Heard on High.”

    Advent Awakenings arr. Franklin D. Ashdown
    The ten free style and hymn-based pieces that comprise Advent Awakenings speak to the exuberant anticipation of Christ’s birth. “Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying,” a set of variations on WACHET AUF, was inspired by the resounding acoustics of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, where it was premiered. Even the quieter pieces evoke a spirit of contained joy. This volume should bring warmth of the season to both organist and listener. Titles include: “Gabriel’s Trumpet,” “Joy to the World,” “Lo, Cometh the Morn,” “My Lord, What a Morning,” “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “People, Look East,” “Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers,” “The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came,” “Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying,” and “What Star Is This, with Beams So Bright/On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry.”

    Wondrous Birth arr. David Sims
    This collection of four jubilant postludes for various seasons of the church year is useful year-round. They range from 2 to 5 minutes in length. Most contain toccata-like sections, the hymn tune in the pedal at times, key changes, and imitation. Titles include: “In a Lowly Manger Born,” “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” “In the Heavens Shone a Star,” “Love Has Come,” “No Wind at the Window,” “People, Look East,” and “There’s a Star in the East.”

    The King of Glory arr. David Lasky
    David Lasky has created another wonderfully varied set of arrangements for organ, including a reflection on the not often heard tune St. Helena. A delight for both the musician and the congregation, this collection would be a welcome addition to any library. Titles include: “Carol of Hope,” “He Came Down,” “Jefferson,” “King of Kings,” “Lucent,” “Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland,” “Ososo,” “Rejoice, Rejoice,” “St. Helena,” “The Kings of Glory,” and “Wie soll ich dich empfangen.”

    Sounding Joy arr. Aaron Shows
    This new volume by Aaron Shows marks his debut in the Augsburg Fortress catalogue. The eleven settings for Christmas are imaginative and will make a great addition to any library. Titles include: “Comfort, Comfort Now My People,” “From Heaven Above,” “God Rest You Merry,” “Good People All, This Christmas Time,” “I Saw Three Ships,” “Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine,” “Joy to the World,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “The Cherry Tree Carol,” and “Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying.”

    Winter Solstice arr. Roberta Rowland-Raybold
    This collection of hymn tune settings for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany includes an original composition, “Winter Solstice,” adding a new dimension to your usual seasonal music. You will find familiar carols, several less familiar but nonetheless beautiful, and carols from other countries with harmony that will transport the listener to far away places. Fresh settings for liturgical worship. Titles include: “All My Heart Again Rejoices,” “Cold December Flies Away,” “Come Now, O Prince of Peace,” “Creator of the Stars of Night,” “I Wonder As I Wander,” “In the Bleak Midwinter,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” “Meditation on Winter Solstice,” “Midnight Stars Make Bright the Skies,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright!,” “People, Look East,” “Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers,” and “What Child Is This.”

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Thanksgiving Music for Organ 10 November, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Thanksgiving Mosaics by Jacob B. Weber
    Give thanks to the Lord with these six settings of Thanksgiving-themed hymns by Jacob B. Weber. Designed for Thanksgiving observances, these settings are also useful for general praise throughout the Church Year. Weber’s Mosaics series features creative, seasonal settings for the church organist. Titles include: “All People That on Earth Do Dwell,” “Come Ye Thankful People Come,” “How Can I Thank You Lord,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “O Jesus, Blessed Lord, to Thee,” “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow,” “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty,” “The Lord, My God, Be Praised,” “We Gather Together,” and “We Praise You, O God.”

    Autumn Festivals ed. Rebecca Groom Te Velde
    With a host of accessible, quality new settings, and with pieces based on all the major hymn tunes, these volumes are a must for every church organist’s library.

    Thanksgiving Simplified: Easy Settings for Organ arr. Jacob B. Weber
    The Simplified series by Jacob B. Weber seeks to provide attractive new settings that are accessible to novice organists but interesting for experienced organists. The settings are easily mastered while remaining artistic. This collection features 10 easy hymn preludes and includes settings of Thanksgiving favorites. Titles include: “Come Ye Thankful People Come,” “From All That Dwell Below the Skies,” “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart,” “Gracious God, You Send Great Blessings,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “Praise and Thanksgiving,” “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven,” “Sing to the Lord of Harvest,” “The Lord, My God, Be Praised,” and “We Plow the Fields and Scatter.”

    Joyful We Adore (Organ Settings for the Harvest Season) by Franklin D. Ashdown
    This collection includes eleven hymn settings for the thanksgiving and harvest season. Titles include: “Come Ye Thankful People Come,” “The Dawning of Creation,” “Eternal Father Strong to Save,” “For the Beauty of the Earth,” “God of the Sparrow,” “God Whose Farm Is All Creation,” “Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “A Thanksgiving Antiphon,” “This Is My Father’s World,” and “We Plow the Fields and Scatter.”

    Come, Ye Thankful People, Come! arr. Michael Helman
    Give thanks at Thanksgiving or any time of the year with Michael Helman’s first Lorenz organ collection, which contains arrangements of great hymns of thanks. Michael also composed two original works for the collection, a classic style trumpet tune and a lyric aria, which are a joy to play and hear. Titles include: “Trumpet Tune on Ash Grove,” “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come!,” “Rondeau on Royal Oak,” “Aria,” “Prelude on Thaxted,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “Trumpet Tune,” and “Trio on Ash Grove.”

    The Last Verse: for Thanksgiving and Patriotic Celebrations arr. Janet Linker
    16 Free hymn accompaniments arranged by Janet Linker for Thanksgiving and Patriotic celebrations. Titles include: “America the Beautiful,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Come Ye Thankful People Come,” “For All the Saints,” “God of Our Fathers,” “Let All Things Now Living,” “Morning Has Broken,” “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” “Now Thank We All Our God,” “Rejoice Ye Pure in Heart,” “Sing to the Lord of Harvest,” “The Star Spangled Banner,” “This Is My Father’s World,” “This Is My Song,” and “We Gather Together.”

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    God Gave a Song: Gospel Greats for Organ 02 November, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    God Gave a Song: Eight Gospel Hymn Settings for Organ arr. Mary McDonald
    At the heart of our music making are the praises and prayers that we raise on high to God. Mary McDonald’s sensitively written gospel interpretations reflect on the texts of the hymns, allowing the congregation to pause and reflect on the message while you play to the Lord. “God Gave a Song” so we may praise Him in return. Titles include: “Come, Christians, Join to Sing,” “Meditation on The Lord’s My Shepherd,” “We Have Heard the Joyful Sound,” “Prelude on Holy Manna,” “Beneath the Cross of Jesus,” “Partita on Blessed Name,” “Trusting Jesus,” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

    Blessed Assurance: Five Gospel Hymns for Organ arr. Matthew H. Corl
    Five familiar gospel hymn settings that will quickly become favorites. Useful for worship services, as well as memorial services. Accessible and creative. Titles include: “Blessed Assurance,” “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” “Just As I Am,” “Rock of Ages,” and “To God Be the Glory.”

    Three Gospel Preludes for Organ arr. Gerald Near
    Three beloved gospel tunes set in an eloquent style. These pieces can be used frequently in worship services and memorial services. Titles include: “Amazing Grace,” “Blessed Assurance,” and “In the Garden.”

    Six Gospel Hymn Preludes arr. Wilbur Held
    Gospel hymns sung enthusiastically by our grandparents and great-grandparents continue to have meaning for many today. Here are six treatments filled with warmth and sympathy. Titles include: “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” “In the Garden,” “It Is Well with My Soul,” “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.”

    Complete Gospel Preludes by William Bolcom
    This edition for advanced organists corrects and combines all of Bolcom’s gospel preludes. Includes new program notes.

    I Will Praise Him arr. Myra Schubert
    Beloved, veteran arranger Myra Schubert has created this collection of 12 gospel favorites for the church organist. Drawing from her own background as a church organist for over 20 years, Myra provides settings of these beloved hymns which are both practical and inspirational. Titles include: “Blessed Be the Name,” “Jesus Saves!,” “Be Still, My Soul,” “The Love of God,” “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” “Such Love,” “Day by Day,” “Grace Greater than Our Sin,” “Praise Him! Praise Him!,” “I Will Praise Him,” and “Higher Ground.”

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Music for Manuals by Charles Callahan 30 October, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Preludes and Postludes: Music for Manuals
    A delightful and useful collection of music from composers spanning the 17th-21st centuries. While the music is manuals only, it has such class and pedigree that you will want this book near your console at all times.

    Great Victorian Hymns: Music for Manuals
    Includes: The Church’s One Foundation AURELIA Crown Him with Many Crowns DIADEMATA Savior, Again to Thy Dear Name ELLERS Lead On, O King Eternal LANCASHIRE My Faith Looks Up to Thee OLIVET Faith of Our Fathers ST. CATHERINE Rock of Ages TOPLADY Holy, Holy, Holy NICAEA

    Gospel: Music for Manuals
    Eight gospel favorites are given lush, emotive settings that are so satisfying one barely notices that they are for manuals only. Useful for preludes, interludes, or communion, these pieces are suitable for a small organ but would also benefit from the varied tone colors of a larger instrument. Titles include: “In the Garden,” “It Is Well with My Soul,” “Ivory Palaces,” “Jesus Loves Me,” “My Redeemer,” “O My Father,” “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” “Sweet Hour of Prayer,” and “Whispering Hope.”

    Great American Hymns: Music for Manuals
    Includes: Oh, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing AZMON All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name CORONATION Jerusalem, My Happy Home LAND OF REST O Beautiful For Spacious Skies MATERNA Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound NEW BRITAIN (AMAZING GRACE) ‘Tis the Gift to Be Simple SIMPLE GIFTS When Jesus Wept WHEN JESUS WEPT What Wondrous Love Is This WONDROUS LOVE

    Chant-Based Hymns: Music for Manuals
    Includes: ADORO TE DEVOTE (ADORO DEVOTE/ADORO TE); AGNUS DEI; ASPERGES ME; AVE MARIA; AVE VERUM; REGINA CAELI; SALVE REGINA (Simple Tone); UBI CARITAS

    Thanksgiving: Music for Manuals
    Includes: Morning Has Broken Praise and Thanksgiving BUNESSAN (2 Settings) For the Beauty of the Earth Praise to God, Immortal Praise DIX (2 Settings) Oh, Worship the King Ye Servants of God HANOVER (2 Settings) We Gather Together KREMSER Now Thank We All Our God NUN DANKET ALLE GOTT We, Thy People, Praise Thee ST. ANTHONY CHORALE Come, Ye Thankful People, Come ST. GEORGE’S, WINDSOR Let All Things Now Living Sent Forth by God’s Blessing THE ASH GROVE (2 Settings)

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Music for the King of Instruments 26 October, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Suite Gothique by Leon Boellmann
    The first movement (Introduction – Choral) is in C minor and is made up of harmonized choral phrases that are first played in block chords on the great and pedals, and then repeated, piano, on the Swell. The second movement (Menuet gothique) is in 3/4 time and in C major. The third movement (Prière à Notre-Dame) is in A-flat major; it rarely uses dynamics above ‘piano’. The final fourth movement (Toccata) is the best-known of the suite. This movement returns to C minor, ending with a Tierce de Picardie on full organ.

    Carillon de Westminster by Louis Vierne
    Carillon de Westminster is a piece written for organ by Louis Vierne. It constitutes the sixth piece in the third suite of Vierne’s four-suite set 24 pieces de fantaisie, first published in 1927. Carillon de Westminster is in the key of D major, and is in compound triple time.

    Grand Choeur Dialogué by Eugene Gigout
    Gigout published his 6 Pièces d’orgue in 1881, the Grand Choeur Dialogue served as a grandiose finale to the collection, written very much in the French Romantic style.

    Poèmes Évangéliques by Jean Langlais
    Poèmes évangéliques by French composer Jean Langlais features three sacred pieces for organ. Titles include: “L’Annonciation,” “La Nativité,” and “Les Rameaux.”

    Pièce Héroïque by César Franck
    The Piéce héroïque, one of Franck’s most popular organ pieces, is in three sections. A serene “chorale” middle segment is bookended by an almost sinister main theme, supported by pulsating chords. There follows a bustling passage of arpeggios and a powerful reprise of the opening, which leads to a peroration for full organ of the “chorale.”

    Tu Es Petra by Henry Mulet
    The last movement, a brilliant toccata, is titled in full, “Tu es Petra et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus te.” It’s usually known simply as “Tu es Petra.” Mulet refers not to the ancient apostle Peter, but to the Basilica Sacré-Cœur itself. Its white limestone construction, on top of the rocky outcrop of Montmartre, is both the “rock” and the “church,” the “Petra” of the title, and Mulet’s glorious toccata celebrates its permanence in the face of all kinds of sinister threats from below.

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Communion Music for Organ 12 October, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    Organ Music for Communion arr. Martin Weyer
    This volume devised by Martin Weyer contains organ music of easy to medium technical difficulty for use at communion. The broad range of styles encompasses Johann Sebastian Bach and early Classical works through to the late Romantic period. The album contains original compositions and first publications as well as arrangements for organ and twelve pieces for communion in settings by Johann Sebastian Bach with melodies and texts appropriate to communion. Some of the pieces can also be performed with solo instruments (in C, Bb or F). Corresponding instrumental parts are included with the score.

    Three Communion Meditations arr. David Maxwell
    This set includes beautiful settings of well-known hymn tunes “Picardy,” “Wondrous Love,” and “Amazing Grace” that organists will find useful over and over again. While perfect for use during Communion, each piece is substantial enough to stand on its own. Maxwell has called for specific colors with his registrations, but any organist will find these arrangements playable on almost any size instrument and with little work.

    Communion Canticles arr. Franklin D. Ashdown
    Franklin D. Ashdown based this collection around the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. Two of the pieces are freely composed and are intended to evoke the spirit of remembrance, renewal, and devotion to the Savior and His atoning sacrifice. The additional six pieces are settings of well-known Communion hymns. Most are quiet, introspective pieces that are useful as preludes, offertories, and voluntaries, while the more energetic and celebratory compositions work well as recessionals and postludes.

    Communion Music for Manuals arr. Charles Callahan
    Titles include: “Humbly I Adore Thee (ADORO TE DEVOTE),” “Bread of the World, in Mercy Broken (EUCHARISTIC HYMN),” “Let Us Break Bread Together (LET US BREAK BREAD),” “Now, My Tongue, the Mystery Telling (PANGE LINGUA),” “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (PICARDY),” “Father, We Thank Thee (RENDEZ À DIEU),” “Deck Thyself, My Soul (SCHMÜCKE DICH),” “Come with Us, O Blessed Jesus (WERDE MUNTER).”

    Communion Mosaics arr. Jacob B. Weber
    This is the tenth edition in the popular “Mosaics” series by Jacob B. Weber. “Communion Mosaics” features organ settings that are useful as preludes or hymn introductions during distribution. The collection is bookended with a delightful trumpet tune on “O Living Bread from Heaven” and three variations on “At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing” (Introduction, Interlude, and Coda), which are useful as a combined prelude or interspersed with hymn singing. Other hymns include “Jesus Comes Today with Healing,” “I Come, O Savior, to Your Table,” “O Gracious Lord, I Firmly Am Believing,” and “What Is This Bread.”

    Let Us Break Bread Together arr. Albin Whitworth
    Nine communion hymn settings for organ arranged by Albin C. Whitworth. Titles include: “Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed,” “Close to Thee,” “In the Cross of Christ I Glory,” “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” “Jesus Paid It All,” “Let Us Break Bread Together,” “My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” “Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart,” and “Whiter Than Snow.”

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    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    Organ & Piano Duets from JOEL RANEY 05 October, 2023

    recommended by Caryn G. and Christopher B., Sacred Piano Music Specialists

    Worship Openers for Organ & Piano
    A Mighty Fortress
    arr. Joel Raney
    This prelude is the latest addition to Joel Raney’s exciting series of worship openers for piano & organ, with SATB choir entering at the conclusion for an optional choral introit. The inspiration for this powerhouse setting came from combining one of the most dynamic pieces from the organ literature, with one of the most majestic hymn tunes blending Widor’s Toccata from Symphony No. 5 with Martin Luther’s immortal EIN FESTE BURG. Both keyboard parts are included. An optional 3-5 octave handbell part with optional 3 octave handchimes, a full conductor’s score and parts for brass quartet are each available separately.

    Come, Christians, Join to Sing! arr. Joel Raney
    Here is the latest addition to Joel Raney’s exciting series of piano/organ worship openers with SATB choir entering at the conclusion, for an optional choral introit. There are optional parts for brass and 3-5 octave handbells and 3-5 octave handchimes.

    Come, Ye Thankful People, Come arr. Joel Raney
    Written especially for the Thanksgiving season, or any service of thanks, this arrangement combines piano and organ duet with optional parts for both choir and handbells. This festive setting combines the hymns “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come” with “We Gather Together” and “Now Thank We All our God.” The choir enters at the conclusion of this prelude for an optional choral introit, which is included and reproducible. A separate handbell score, arranged by Arnold Sherman, is available for 3-6 octave handbells. Indications for the handbell entrances are included in the keyboard score.

    great is thy faithfulness joel raney

    Great Is Thy Faithfulness arr. Joel Raney
    This festive worship opener is the latest addition to Joel Raney’s exciting series of piano/organ duets, with SATB choir entering at the conclusion of the prelude for an optional choral introit. William M. Runyan’s majestic tune is partnered with “How Firm a Foundation” in this uplifting setting. An optional 3-5 octave Handbell Part, and a Full Conductor’s Score are available separately. A reproducible congregational part is included in the conductor’s score.

    Featuring optional Handbells & Choir
    All Hail the Power
    arr. Joel Raney
    This festive prelude is the latest addition to Joel Raney’s exciting series of piano/organ duets, with SATB choir entering at the conclusion for an optional choral introit. Raney incorporates the tunes CORONATION, LASST UNS ERFREUEN, CRUSADER’ S HYMN, and MADRID woven together in a festive presentation. Both keyboard parts and a reproducible page of the text for the choir are included. An optional 3-6 octave handbell part and a full conductor’s score are available separately.

    Lift High the Cross arr. Joel Raney
    This festive piano/organ duet setting combines the hymns “Lift High the Cross” with “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and “Thine Is the Glory.” Ideal for the Easter season, this arrangement includes optional parts for both choir and handbells. The choir enters at the conclusion for an optional choral introit. Two keyboard parts are included in the score along with reproducible parts for SATB choir. The separate handbell part, arranged by Arnold B. Sherman, is available for 3-5 octave handbells.

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    About the Authors:
    Caryn G. is a graduate of Trinity Lutheran College (Washington state). She has over 24 years of experience working at Stanton’s in both the Piano and Choral departments, specializing in sacred piano music. She is a church pianist/accompanist and has enjoyed being a piano teacher and singing in many choirs over the years. When not working at Stanton’s or at church, she loves spending time with family members and friends, traveling and exploring, watching movies, reading, bike riding and most recently trying to better her culinary knowledge and be a little more artsy by painting rocks and water coloring.

    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.

    The Organ Music of DIANE BISH 29 August, 2023

    recommended by Christopher B., Organ Music Specialist

    The Very Best of Diane Bish: Six Solos for Organ
    Titles include: “Finlandia,” “God of Our Fathers,” “Joy,” “Joyful, Joyful,” “A Mighty Fortress,” and “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.”

    The American Collection arr. Diane Bish
    “The American Collection” contains five fabulous hymn arrangements by American organist extraordinaire, Diane Bish. Perhaps most exciting is the long-awaited printed version of “Jacob’s Ladder.” This concert favorite is finally available for others to play. Diane has also penned her concert arrangement of “Peace, Perfect Peace” and “The Lord’s My Shepherd” – wonderful, reflective selections. The collection rounds out with “A New Name in Glory” and “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.”

    Variations on Hyfrydol arr. Diane Bish
    Diane Bish’s new setting of the much-loved Welsh hymn tune Hyfrydol is a welcome addition to the organist’s library. The four flexible variations – which include a Schumannesque first variation, an incisive Baroque-like variation, a lyrical sarabande, and a toccata finale – could be played in whole or in part as a concert suite, or used for hymn introductions and interludes.

    Dance of the Trumpets by Diane Bish
    Dedicated to Janet Jarriel, Bish’s friend and agent. An energetic piece for manuals and pedals, of intermediate to advanced difficulty. The music was inspired by Psalm 150.

    Shall We Gather at the River arr. Diane Bish
    Eight beautiful arrangements of classic hymns. Titles include: “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” “All Through the Night,” “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come,” “Have Thine Own Way, Lord,” “Joy to the World,” “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” “Precious Lord, Take My Hand,” and “Shall We Gather at the River.”

    Classical Organ Favorites arr. Diane Bish
    Diane Bish has carefully selected some of her most loved organ selections and made them available in one wonderful collection. Titles include: “Adagio in G minor” (Thomaso Albinoni), “Canon in D” (Pachelbel), “Overture from Royal Firework Music (G.F. Handel), “Sicilienne” (Theresia V. Paradis), and “Apres Un Reve” (Faure).

    Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

    About the Author:
    Christopher B. grew up in eastern Kentucky in a musically diverse family, and began playing organ at the age of 12. He majored in vocal performance with minors in keyboards and conducting at Marshall University and later received a Master of Theological Studies in congregational ministry from Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Christopher has served as a church music director and organist for more than 20 years, presently serving as Director of Music and Worship Arts/Organist at Church of the Master United Methodist in Westerville, OH.