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

Journey On by Derrick Fox, SATB with piano
This sweet and simple original song, with a lilting melody and folklike harmonies, illustrates the impact of the relationships that we build throughout our lives. Optimistic about the future, the text speaks of friendships, journeying together, and then journeying apart. A terrific choice for graduation!

Remember This arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional rhythm
Described as one of the Jonas Brothers most upbeat, undeniable, and uplifting anthems, this Music was played during the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The energy is high and the choral writing is exceptional in this number one hit.

Hope Grows by Douglas E. Wagner, SATB with piano
With a gentle feel and an expressive melody, Douglas E. Wagner’s original text is an inspiring reminder of hope in the face of adversity. Imagery from nature paints a picture of sunrises, budding flowers, and life returning to barren ground. This accessible setting is a beautiful selection for any SATB choir.

Our Roots by Bob Chilcott, SSAA with piano
“Our Roots” is an upbeat setting of evocative words by Delphine Chalmers on the themes of unity and commonality. An effective syncopated, single-note motif in the Piano underpins the piece, rooting the tonality and providing a firm ostinato around which the music blossoms. Chilcott’s word-painting – in places such as the drawing together of the four-part choral texture into unison on the words ‘yours and mine the same’ and the use of the piano’s upper and lower registers as the text looks to roots and sky – creates a great sense of unity between music and lyrics. Powerful key changes and a strong rhythmic drive create an affirmatory setting that is sure to uplift both singer and listener.

May the Road Rise to Meet You by Victor C. Johnson, SAB with piano and optional oboe
Don’t miss this elegant setting of the traditional Irish Blessing – it is beautifully melodic and singable. With lyrical vocal lines and a gently flowing accompaniment, it is the ideal closer for any performance, and the optional oboe obbligato adds warmth. Highly recommended!

Your Song by Mark Burrows, 3-part mixed with piano
“Your song is my very heart.” The beautiful metaphor describes a loved one as a song with qualities such as hope, healing, laughter, and love. Mark Burrows honors his daughter on the occasion of her high school graduation with this musical tribute. Appropriate for choirs of any age, with a tender melody, harmonic warmth, and an expressive piano accompaniment.

The Call by Regina Spektor/arr. Dianne Gryba, SATB with piano
This hit from the Narnia movie by Regina Spektor, young people resonate with this music and the message. This arrangement emerges from the subconscious, builds to a climax, and then recedes back into a quiet place of assurance.

The Gift to Sing by Timothy Michael Powell, SATB with piano
James Weldon Johnson was an American writer, civil rights activist and was a leader of the NAACP in 1917. His poetry has been celebrated and set to music for decades. This is a new, expertly-textured arrangement from Timothy Michael Powell.

Give Us Hope (20th Anniversary Edition) by Jim Papoulis, SATB with piano
This special 20th anniversary edition has the same notes as the first edition but now, more of the royalties are going to the Foundation for Small Voices.

For All We Know arr. Kirby Shaw, SATB a cappella
Real deal a cappella jazz writing with great attention paid to phrasing, dynamics, expressive rhythms that sound unmetered, and bringing the emotional words to life. Be prepared to put in the time and feel the satisfaction of singing a lush and lovely ballad. The song has been recorded by a host of artists including Billie Holiday, Doris Day, Aretha Franklin, and Bette Midler, but Kirby’s arrangement is inspired by soul artist Donny Hathaway’s heart-wrenching performance.

Harmony’s Never Too Late arr. Mark Hayes, TTBB with piano and optional rhythm
This powerful choral anthem was written by Broadway songwriters Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty in honor of the 40th anniversary of The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC. Lynn’s text uses harmony as a metaphor to represent acceptance, and Stephen’s inspirational music is a canvas of hope and strength. Robust piano, bass, and drum parts provide a sturdy pop accompaniment for three full voicings designed to accommodate any four-part group.

A Life Well Lived by Braeden Ayres, TBB with piano and pennywhistle or flute
“A Life Well Lived” is the first publication in the Emily Crocker Emerging Composers Series. The piece uses the Edgar Albert Guest poem, “Compensation,” to consider what we would like to be able to say about our lives, looking back in old age. The melody has a familiar folksong sound similar to those heard in Ireland and Scotland. The addition of a pennywhistle or flute enhances the warm, comfortable tone of the piece.

Memories arr. Andy Beck, TTBB with piano
Maroon 5 has perfected their pop song template – a catchy tune, memorable hook, and genuine, relatable lyrics. Toss in hints of Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and you have an undeniable hit. This well-crafted arrangement sets a few accompanimental guitar figures in the voices, and offers some subtle text adaptations for all occasions. It’s a perfect choice any time, but especially effective for end-of-year events, marking a changing era with heartfelt emotion.

Our Story by Mark Burrows, 2-part with piano
With text inspired by the profound thoughtfulness of members of the Kettering Children’s Choir in Kettering, OH, Mark Burrows has crafted this touching anthem of togetherness and support of one another. Part I and II are both featured at different times and the parts are craftily woven together to emphasize the message of the text. “I’m a part of your story and you’re a part of mine.”

This Land Is Your Land (with America the Beautiful) arr. Roger Emerson, SATB with piano and optional combo
Woody Guthrie wrote this iconic folk song in 1940. Here it is combined with the 1885 patriotic American song “America the Beautiful.” Two of the most popular patriotic songs of all time will bring every audience to its feet.

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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.

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