News & Views Thursday, October 30, 2025

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

A Little Bit of Love arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
Pairing a bright, energetic pop-rock melody with heartfelt, uplifting lyrics, Weezer’s hit “A Little Bit of Love” offers a hearty dose of the positivity and encouragement we all need to help us overcome life’s challenges. Deftly translated to the choral idiom by Roger Emerson, this is one of those songs your choir just won’t be able to stop singing.

Belong Together arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano
Singers will love the sunny vibes and breezy acoustic feel of this guitar-driven pop song, which went viral on TikTok even before its release! The carefree lyrics are suitable for all ages and express how the simple presence of a loved one or friend can make any day special. American singer-songwriter Mark Ambor delivers a catchy song that is sure to make everyone smile.

Wonderful World (What a) arr. Greg Gilpin, SATB with piano
“Don’t know much about history. Don’t know much biology.” Sam Cooke’s iconic ’60s single is built on the theme that love makes the world a better place. This straightforward arrangement is a snap to learn in any voicing and sounds just as soulful as the original. A brief crooner solo at the end solidifies the unmistakable R&B style of this romantic throwback. Cute and fun!

Espresso, Please (Medley) arr. Alan Billingsley, SSA with piano
Sabrina Carpenter has taken the music world by storm with songs that dominate both the airwaves and streaming charts. This 3.5-minute mashup of her disco-pop chart-topper “Please Please Please” and caffeinated funk-style hit “Espresso” is guaranteed to brew up plenty of applause.

Both Sides Now arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB a cappella
This intimate a cappella setting of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” features rich harmonies and a beautiful message exploring multiple perspectives on life and love.

The Times They Are A-Changin’ arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB with piano and optional guitar
Capturing the youthful, restless passion of the original Dylan classic, Kirby Shaw’s powerful arrangement is both a tribute to yesterday’s progress and a fresh take relevant to times that just keep changin.’ An optional acoustic guitar part adds a touch of folk-rock authenticity to this smooth, harmony-rich setting.

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About the Author:
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.

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

The Haunting by Meredith Tompkins, SSA with piano
“The Haunting” for SSA voices and piano is a spellbinding choral work that blends ethereal harmonies with hauntingly poetic text. Exploring themes of lingering spirits and echoes of the past, the piece features intricate vocal lines and a fluid piano accompaniment that enhance its eerie, atmospheric beauty. With dynamic contrasts, layered textures, and moments of delicate phrasing, it challenges singers to deliver emotive storytelling, making it a captivating choice for advanced treble choirs seeking dramatic and theatrical repertoire.

The Autumn Moon by Mary Donnelly & George L.O. Strid, 2-part with piano and optional flute
The established writing team of Mary Donnelly and George L.O. Strid brings us this serene and reflective work, capturing the quiet beauty of an autumn night. With a moderate tempo and optional flute accompaniment, the piece vividly portrays the glowing moon casting its silver light over rooftops and country lanes. The lyrics evoke a sense of peace as the moon’s light finally rests upon the windowpane, inviting a tranquil connection to nature’s stillness. This gentle composition is perfect for choirs seeking to convey the soothing elegance of the changing seasons.

The Ballad of the Witches’ Road (Sacred Chant Version) arr. Roger Emerson, SSA with piano and optional rhythm
From Marvel Television’s “Agatha All Along,” this epic setting by Roger Emerson is the perfect addition to any fall concert. Incorporating modal mixture, pedal tones, stepwise motion, and rounds this arrangement is a great device for teaching music literacy and blend.

Ghostbusters arr. Tom Anderson, 3-part mixed with piano
Grab your proton pack and join the ultimate ghost-busting adventure with Ray Parker, Jr.’s iconic 1980s hit. This action-packed novelty goes over the top with high-energy beats and a catchy chorus that instantly gives supernatural silliness. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or just in need of a good time, this retro throwback will get everyone dancing.

Wind in the Pines by Bruce W. Tippette, SAB with piano
This expressive poetic setting opens with a piano motif reminiscent of rushing wind. Three legato voice parts unfold and intertwine. Staggered entrances in the middle assemble and grow until we “hear sonorous lines soaring through the pines.” Encourage singers to soften and slow to a dreamy, relaxed ending. Ideal for contest and festival use.

Living in the Seasons by Joel Snyder & Jane Kozhevnikova, SATB with piano
Songwriting duo Snyder & Kozhevnikova have created a fun and accessible piece for every season! Original lyrics, SATB (no divisi), and a joyful piano accompaniment make this a great concert and festival piece for high school mixed ensembles.

Four Seasonal Rounds by Alan A. Craig, 3-part treble with piano and optional orchestra
This tasteful set of brief canons is an elegant journey through the four seasons. Each movement presents a melody in unison before staggering entrances to assemble beautiful polyphony. Creative accompaniments provide harmonic and rhythmic variations that elevate the genre to a place of excellence. Program individually throughout the year or as a 6-minute feature. Perform with piano alone or the full orchestral accompaniment.

An Awful Tempest by Jeffrey Cobb, SA with piano
“An Awful Tempest” will cast its spell over your choir, turning your singers into a coven of plotting witches. This exciting setting of the Emily Dickinson text will thrill and delight singers and audiences alike. Complete with cackles, screeches and sound effects, the musical cauldron is stirred and heated until it bubbles over with excitement!

The Green-Eyed Dragon arr. Larry Shackley, TB with piano
“The Green-Eyed Dragon” is a lighthearted and delightfully whimsical song by Wolseley Charles and Greatrex Newman, now brilliantly adapted and arranged for tenor-bass choirs. Telling the quirky tale of a princess, her wicked father, and a fearsome (but charmingly mischievous) dragon, this piece is filled with humor and drama. Larry Shackley’s arrangement features robust vocal writing that gives TB singers plenty to wrap their voices around, supported by a substantive piano accompaniment that brings the story to life.

In Noctem (from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince) by Nicholas Hooper/arr. Andy Beck, SATB with piano
This shadowy cinematic selection, whose title means “into the night,” was featured in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” With a secular text in both English and Latin, the haunting minor-key theme is harmonized in shimmering thirds, and floats above distant staccato chanting. A minimalist piano part mirrors the film score’s bell-like treble motive and pizzicato bass notes.

Eine Kleine Kazoo Musik by W.A. Mozart/arr. Tom Anderson, SAB with piano & kazoos
You’ve never heard Mozart like this before! “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” is performed on neutral syllables with plenty of kazoo moments interspersed throughout. Get ready to switch back and forth between singing and kazoo-ing, but be sure to keep a straight face while performing the dramatic dynamic and tempo changes. It’s guaranteed to be the most fun you’ll ever have performing a masterwork!

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About the Author:
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.

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Hola, Media Luna by Eddie Cavazos & Trevor Phillips, 2-part with piano
The most lovely selection you’ll program this year. Legato voices sing in both Spanish and English in this charming ode to the half-moon. Beginning harmonies shine brightly over a delicate piano part. A simple pronunciation guide is included in the publication, plus extension activities and reflection prompts are available to download.

Kaleidoscope Color by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano and optional percussion
This elevated partner song pairs two colorful melodies the third time around and includes an echo format refrain. Don’t be fooled by the beginning part-singing techniques, Andy’s eloquent original lyrics will inspire singers of any age, and the elegant harmonic palette (heard in the artful accompaniment) captivates the ear. Performance suggestions include two optional percussion instruments as well as colorful handheld lights.

It’s Alright by Sherry Blevins, 2-part with piano
Composer Sherry Blevins offers an uplifting contemporary original that teaches persistence. “Though you might fall down, you still must try.” The lightly syncopated melody is easy to learn and brings the meaningful text to life. Feature two optional soloists in the slower middle section before the catchy theme returns with distinct counterlines layered over an optional piano bass line. Add handclaps on two and four to lock in the groove!

Little River by Lisa Longe, 2-part with piano
The inspiring words of this nature-themed original are a metaphor for carving your pathway in life. Delicate voices come and go from unison, creating a satisfying harmonic tapestry that is easy to learn. A supportive piano part lies beautifully in the hands, and expressive dynamics highlight the ebb and flow of the river. Simply sweet.

Hope Is the Thing with Feathers by Victor C. Johnson, 2-part with piano and optional horn
Victor C. Johnson has masterfully crafted a breathtaking choral setting of Emily Dickinson’s text. This piece features warm choral sonorities, a lush piano accompaniment, and an elegant French horn obligato that adds a layer of richness and beauty to the overall sound. The combination of these elements brings Dickinson’s poignant words to life, creating a powerful musical experience.

Sail Away (with The Water Is Wide) by Emily Crocker, 2-part with piano
Younger and developing choirs can build important choral skills with this partner style arrangement of the beloved Scottish folk song, “The Water Is Wide,” paired with an original song that perfectly complements the gently flowing style of the folk melody.

The Ferris Wheel by Andy Beck, 2-part with piano
Step right up to experience this thrilling, action-packed original by Andy Beck! This innovative song recounts the invention of the towering amusement park staple from the perspective of its first World’s Fair riders. Adventurous melodies combine with captivating lyrics to create clever text painting, while the rollicking 3/4 piano part provides momentum throughout. “Come to Chicago, ride the Ferris wheel!”

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About the Author:
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.

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral & Classroom Music Specialist

Pirates + Zombies: A “Scare-ibbean” Cruisical by John Jacobson & Roger Emerson
“Pirates+Zombies” is a rollicking 45 minute musical with 6 original songs that brings together characters from two of Roger and John’s most popular shows! The Pirate captain books a cruise for his mates on a themed “costume cruise”, it turns out to be hosted by real Zombies! After fun laughter and an ultimate “Walk the Plank” it turns out they each learn “No One is a Monster” once you get to know them. Easy to stage and costume, fun for all ages from upper elementary through small high school.

This downloadable musical comes complete with a reproducible piano/conductor score, performance and accompaniment MP3s, reproducible script and singer songsheets, a demonstration video, video production rights, show logo art, and a license for one school to perform the show up to one year after purchase, with the option for a renewal fee if your school decides to perform the musical again. With options to combine or split parts, add or change songs, and add or change scenes, this musical is flexible to suit the needs of you and your students. Set, staging, and choreography suggestions are also included, with lots of ideas for making this a fun and successful show!

Watch the trailer below, and shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Finding a Breeze by Matt Carlson, SA with piano
“Finding a Breeze” is about breaking free from the weight of negative thoughts and being lifted up by positive ones. Composer Matt Carlson uses flowing melodies and compelling harmonies, making this treble work suitable for all ages.

Journey the Night by Lisa Longe, 3-part mixed with piano
“In darkness, we see more than we know.” This haunting 6/8 original is carefully crafted for developing groups with moderate-range voice parts and a supportive, uncomplicated accompaniment. Poetic lyrics about the mystique and wonder of nighttime evoke sounds of singing shadows. Composed mostly in D minor, the final bars soften and slow with an uplifting shift to the relative major.

Cantate Gaudentes! (Sing Joyfully!) by Coleman Peterson, 3-part mixed with piano
“Sing joyfully! Lift your voices high, together as one. Seize the day with laugher and love!” This exuberant secular concert opener for developing mixed choirs is written in both Latin and English. Ideal ranges for all voice parts, with a modern and supportive piano accompaniment throughout. Teachable moments abound, making this excellent for middle level festivals and combining choirs to start any concert with a bang! A Latin phonetic pronunciation guide is included in the choral octavo.

The Owl, the Wind, and the Moon by Mark Burrows, 3-part mixed with piano
Three nighttime characters emerge one at a time to “weave their nocturnal tune” in this imaginative autumnal original. Singers become storytellers with a creative text, musical word painting, dramatic dynamics, and even sound effects – the song begins and ends by imitating the whispering wind. Program a mysterious, magical moment this fall or any time of year!

O Lux Beatissima by Mark Burrows, 3-part mixed with piano
Wonderful opportunities for teaching breathing, phrase-shaping, pure vowel sound, and dynamic control abound in this elegantly flowing setting of a traditional Latin text. Carefully scored for success with young voices, it is a simply-stated, finely-crafted addition to your library.

One Small Light by Karen Crane, 3-part mixed with piano
Karen Crane’s “One Small Light” is a heartfelt and inspiring piece for three-part mixed voices, perfect for concerts with themes of hope and perseverance. With a gentle yet uplifting melody, this song encourages singers and listeners to embrace their potential and recognize the powerful ripple effects of small acts of kindness and courage. “One Small Light” reminds us all that even the smallest spark can illuminate the darkest places.

Mixolydian Gloria by Remel Derrick, SAB with piano (optional a cappella)
Using the mixolydian scale rather than a conventional major scale, Remel Derrick’s rhythmically charged SAB setting of the Gloria text is written for the developing mixed choir. With the option to sing with or without piano, your choir will enjoy learning and performing this fun, cool, and accessible piece!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Because You Sang by Arianne Abela, SATB divisi a cappella
The music to carries a hymn-like quality, with a melody that is both easy to recognize and evocative of a protest march. The first verse begins with a solitary voice, gradually joined by an increasing forces.

Aura Lee arr. Bryan Sharpe, SA(T)B with piano
Flexibly set for either SAB or SATB developing choirs, this tender arrangement of the beloved American folk song has a gently flowing piano part that undergirds the harmonic structure throughout. Conservative ranges and sensitive part writing allow all singers to experience success, and the flexibility of the setting allows for smaller choirs with fewer tenors or basses to perform this beautifully.

Show Me the Way by Paul David Thomas, SATB with piano and optional flute & tenor drum
All voice parts have a chance to shine as the request to “show me the way” is passed among the choir, repeated, and transformed through a variety of imitative techniques and textures. Wilcox’s lines suggest that life’s journey is full of challenges and uncertainties, but through love, patience, and a commitment to good deeds, one can find purpose and fulfillment. This hopeful perspective is expressed musically through the driving compound meter rhythms provided by the piano (and optional drum and flute) and the use of accessible chromatic pitches in the vocal lines.

Ahlan Wa Sahlan (Welcome) by Kyle Pederson, SATB with piano and drum, optional guitar/oud, clarinet or violin
A perfect high-energy opener for mixed choirs of all levels! A lovely Arabic phrase, “Ahlan Wa Sahlan (Welcome),” greets the audience and sets the tone for all to feel included, welcomed, and energized. Born from a collaboration with a Middle East (Omani) high school choral festival, this piece features a rockin’ piano and drum part (along with optional guitar, clarinet, or violin), solo possibilities, and infectious pop harmonies and rhythms. Awesome!

Fly Away (from A Minor Bird) by Bruce W. Tippette, SATB with piano
Presenting a simple conflict between humanity and nature, Robert Frost’s poem, A Minor Bird, is musically set in 6/8 meter. With an agitated piano accompaniment under sweeping vocal lines, the composition mimics the person’s frustration and the fluttering of a bird’s wings as it is shooed away. There is a change of heart in the final lyric of “who would want to silence any song?” creating an engaging work for discussion, learning and performance.

Seasons by Ola Gjeilo, SATB with piano and optional flute
This work by Ola Gjeilo and Charles Anthony Silvestri explores the beauties of each of the four seasons. With a supportive piano part and optional flute part that soars above.

Lovely Chance by Jacob Narverud, SATB with piano and optional hand drum
A driving echoed verse bursts into a dancelike, mixed-meter refrain, brilliantly capturing the nature of Sara Teasdale’s vivid poetry. Narverud’s contrasting B section takes a more contemplative approach, gradually growing to a recapitulation of the spirited main chorus. Accompanied by a vibrant piano and an optional hand drum.

Love Will Remain by Mark Burrows, SATB with piano
Mark Burrows’ sensitively crafted choral work brings a deeper level of understanding to a poignant original text, offering an opportunity for profound emotional connection through music. With expressive harmonies, thoughtful vocal scoring, and a gentle unfolding of musical ideas, this piece invites choirs to engage with the text, creating a powerful shared experience between singers and the audience. Ideal for reflective moments in concert or festival settings, “Love Will Remain” is a journey of empathy, expression, and heartfelt artistry.

Run from the Silence by Roger Emerson, SATB with piano
This song of reflection was inspired by the stop motion film, “Gruff.” In the words of the movie director, Julian Curi, “I believe we all have individuals in our lives, related or not, that pride themselves as the ‘strong silent types.’ Through this short film, I hope all of us can learn to empathize, connect, and more deeply love those who have so much more to say than we think, and just need us to listen.”

Alleluia by Jake Runestad, SATB divisi a cappella
Through history, the singing of “alleluia” has served as an outward celebration as well as an introspective expression of praise. The work begins with a rhythmic declaration of joy and builds intensity through metric changes, tonal shifts, glissandi, and hand clapping. This lively exultation soon gives way to a reverent meditation with soaring melodic lines and lush harmonies. The dancing rhythms from the beginning return with a gradual build in intensity as one’s praises rise to the sky.

Wind of Night by Chris Maunu, SATB with piano
Your choir will transform any performance space into the sonic landscape of a windy night with Chris Maunu’s dynamic composition. Filled with driving rhythmic energy, unrelenting accompaniment, and even wind-like sounds created by the choir itself, “Wind of Night” brings the tempestuousness to life. With ample unison sections and accessible vocal ranges, this striking work is both rewarding and achievable for choirs of all levels.

O Nata Lux by Victor C. Johnson, SATB with piano
Victor C. Johnson’s radiant realization of the traditional Latin “light born of light” text is equally fitting for the concert hall, stage, or sanctuary. With plenty of room for expressive singing, this luminous setting gives every voice part a time to shine as it develops the glimmering opening motive into a stunning soundscape.

Laudate! by Christopher Alexander, SSAATTBB a cappella
“Laudate!” is a celebratory work of excitement and praise. After its boisterous opening, the energy of the song takes off with differing motifs and rhythmic figures in each voice before the chorus unites in large, harmonic textures. The anticipation builds again before returning to the polyphonic section from before. The work slightly slows down, while maintaining its energetic spirit, creating polychordal harmonies. The uptempo energy comes back once more and builds through the key change and rollicking finale (similar to the beginning). Each voice section gets featured in this work, and would be a great opener at your next concert. This work is suitable for advanced high school, collegiate, and community choruses.

Flight by Craig Carnelia/arr. Ryan Murphy, SATB with piano and optional string ensemble
“Flight” has long been an incredible and well-loved work by songwriter Craig Carnelia. This dynamic and empowering arrangement, now available for SATB choir, is a great choice for honor choirs, festivals, conferences, and concert performances.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Earth Symphony by Jake Runestad
“Earth Symphony,” the EMMY® award-winning, ground-breaking choral symphony from composer Jake Runestad and librettist Todd Boss, is a 5-part dramatic monologue from the voice of a post-anthropocene Mother Earth. The work imagines Earth’s hope for humanity, her discovery of its power, her ruination at its hands, her lament at its loss, and her recovery. By anthropomorphizing Earth herself, drawing on the familiar earth-mother trope,

“Earth Symphony” enables entry into our own ecological shame, guilt, responsibility, potential, and redemption, all from a wide-angled, time-telescoped lens, thereby asking our most immediately pressing environmental questions in an entirely new way.

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recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Concert Canons: Eight Performance-Worthy Rounds by Andy Beck, Mark Burrows, Ruth Morris Gray & Donald Moore
Canons to take from the classroom to the stage! Whether you’re introducing independent part singing in elementary and middle school or reinforcing that skill for high schoolers, rounds are an essential tool. This collection features concert-ready arrangements and originals that easily stack into two and three layers. Carefully edited to avoid any homophonic singing, but built with the flexibility of cued notes, if desired. Reproducible pages make it easy for singers to find and mark their individual parts. Full-performance and piano accompaniment audio is available.

Titles include: “Banaha,” “Candlelight Canon,” “Canon of Hope,” “Friendship Canon,” “Hashivenu,” “Simply Alleluia,” “Singing Peace Canon,” and “Winter Canon.”

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
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.

Shelter Me: An Original Rock Oratorio by Jacob Ryan Smith
“Shelter Me” is more than just music – it is a call to empathy, action, and understanding. Structured in the tradition of an oratorio, this work blends the storytelling power of soloists, chorus, and instruments with the raw energy and emotional depth of rock music.

Through driving rhythms, lush melodies, and honest, unfiltered lyrics, “Shelter Me” amplifies the voices of our unhoused neighbors, weaving their stories into a compelling musical narrative. This work challenges us all to see, feel, and respond – not as distant observers, but as engaged members of a shared human experience.

May this music spark deeper connections and ignite conversations that lead to lasting change.

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recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Choral Repertoire by Women Composers edited by Hilary Apfelstadt
In recent years, the choral profession has become especially mindful of recognizing a broad spectrum of composers, but scholarly materials have not kept pace. In fact, a survey of the available academic writings on choral music reveals a startling lack of information about women composers.

“Choral Repertoire by Women Composers” addresses this gap by highlighting the lives and music of more than 200 women choral composers spanning different time periods and geographic locations. Their choral works – expressive, compelling, and innovative – represent a diversity of styles and are suitable for choirs of varied ages and experience. Nearly 2,000 unique works are listed in this edition.

Though impossible to include every deserving composer and piece, this timely volume covers considerable ground, spotlighting the important contributions women composers have made to choral music throughout history and across the world.

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About the Author:
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.

Sight Reading Music for Ohio Music Education Association Adjudicated Events by Thomas More Scott, PhD
NOW AVAILABLE exclusively from Stanton’s Sheet Music are the choral sight reading materials as prepared for official OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Events. Each reproducible digital book includes all of the pieces for the event (AA-A-B-C, Mixed-Treble-Tenor/Bass) and is licensed for use by the purchasing school. Now available are books for 2024 State events, 2025 District events, and 2025 State events – and future books will be available in the coming years!

IN PERSON WORKSHOPS WITH THE COMPOSER!
Work to improve your choir’s sight reading skills with a valuable workshop with the composer, Dr. Thomas More Scott! Developing sight reading ability in your choirs helps students learn music faster, gives them more musical confidence, and makes singing fun! Dr. Scott will come work with your students at your school, and their sight reading skills are sure to improve.

Dr. Scott received his Master’s Degree in Choral Conducting under Richard Mathey at Bowling Green State University, where sight reading was the subject of his Master’s thesis. He earned a Ph.D. in music theory and composition and began composing the choral sight reading music for OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Events in 2024.

For scheduling and pricing information for workshops with Dr. Scott, please contact him directly (440-227-2696 or morzhe@windstream.net).

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A Little Jazz Mass by Bob Chilcott, SAB with piano and optional bass & drum kit
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, this highly original and effective concert setting of the five-movement Latin Missa brevis embraces a variety of jazz styles. The stylistic piano accompaniment can be played as written or serve as a guide, and bass and drums can join in ad lib, though a notated bass part is also available.

Originally written for SSA treble voices and also available for SATB mixed voices.

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

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

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

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

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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 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.