recommended by Jen Sper, School Choral Music Specialist

Celebrate This Life! by Sherry Blevins, 3-part mixed with piano and body percussion
“Celebrate This Life!” provides accessible harmony singing through ostinati and partner songs. With two contrasting sections – one driving and one lyrical – singers will enjoy the added body percussion along with the opportunity in the lyrical section for self-expression in the form of statements about what they celebrate. Included in the score are options for staging as well as examples of how to make the piece more meaningful for both singers and audience. If you are looking for a fun and unique piece that also has heart, this is it!

Eneza Upendo (Spread Love) by Jim Papoulis, SSAB with piano and optional percussion
In Swahili and English, this piece celebrates that common and hopeful sentiment that we hear over and over from young people; “I hope we can spread love.”

Today’s Hope by Jacob Narverud, SAB with piano
With uplifting student-written lyrics, this pop-style original encourages young people to embrace their ability to affect change. “The power of hope today will fuel the dreams of tomorrow.” A strong contemporary groove and an irresistible hook will engage, inspire, and ignite enthusiasm. A few solo opportunities provide a platform for individual voices to shine.

I Am Song by Mark Burrows, 3-part mixed/SAB with piano
This Celtic-inspired original is an exceptional testament to Music, a powerful tool for human expression. Compelling lyrics come from the unique perspective of song itself, “I am the spark that glows in you…the voice that grows in you…the hope that springs in you…the truth that rings in you.” A lilting 6/8 meter and sweeping choral lines garner an epic effect and create an impressive opener, closer, or concert theme.

A Joyful Sanctus by Cristi Cary Miller, 3-part mixed with piano
Here’s an energetic and exciting piece with a compelling melody perfect for the developing choir. The syncopated rhythms keep singers excited and focused while bringing energy and enthusiasm to every performance. A terrific selection for a concert or festival opener or closer!

Shenandoah arr. Roger Emerson, SAB with piano
Using rich, lush contemporary harmonies often found in pop and jazz settings and featuring voices that are often relegated to harmony this new setting of the familiar chanty is a joy to sing.

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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.