recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
Dona Nobis Pacem (from Heiligmesse) by F.J. Haydn/arr. Patrick M. Liebergen, SATB with piano
Taken from Haydn’s masterwork “Heiligmesse,” this shortened edition has also been transposed to make it more accessible. The setting of the compact Latin text explores many of the conventions of the Classical period, including energized homophonic choral lines, structured musical form, and stark dynamic contrasts.
Tipitin by Mariá Grever/arr. Raul Dominguez, SATB a cappella
Written by Mexico’s first well-known female composer, María Grever, this vals Mexicano (Mexican waltz) makes a charming a cappella work for outstanding choirs. The textured setting offers well-conceived choral parts throughout, sometimes using lower voices to provide a dance-like underscore for the lilting melody. A full translation and pronunciation notes aid in the understanding and mastery of an entirely Spanish text, which recounts a story of new love. Feature an agile soprano on the jaunty descant near the end.
Cantate Deo (from Water Music) by G.F. Handel/arr. Becki Slagle Mayo, TB with piano and optional trumpet
The Hornpipe movement from Handel’s “Water Music Suite” has been creatively adapted for voices, complete with an original text: “Cantate Deo… Sing alleluia… lift your voice and sing with joy forevermore.” With its contrapuntal texture, imitative vocal lines, and piano and optional B-flat trumpet accompaniment, this familiar melody sets up a concert or festival selection that really shines.
O Bella Fusa by Orlando diLasso/arr. Russell Robinson, 3-part mixed a cappella with optional piano
Originally composed for SATB mixed voices, this Three-Part Mixed setting of the well-known madrigal, with Italian text throughout, may be sung a cappella or accompanied. A fantastic period piece!
The Trout (Die Forelle) by Franz Schubert/arr. Douglas E. Wagner, 3-part mixed with piano
You may have studied this beloved Schubert art song in voice lessons, and now you can share it with developing choirs in a well-constructed, approachable arrangement. The choice of key fits comfortably within range and the Romantic era harmonies are easy to hear. Whether there are two or four hands at the piano, listeners will be hooked by the rippling water and leaping fish in the playful accompaniment. Concerned about the German words? A rhyming English translation provides a charming option. Listen to Fischer-Dieskau’s iconic recording as an introduction to the piece or an extension of learning.
Surge, Propera Amica Mea by Raffaela (Vittoria) Aleotti/ed. Jami Lercher, SATB double choir a cappella
A late 16th-century motet by Rafaella Aleotti, a composer believed to be the first woman to have sacred music appear in print. Using text from Song of Solomon, Aleotti employs elements of both Renaissance and Baroque styles to convey the poetic idea of “Arise, my love.”
Jubilate by W.A. Mozart/arr. John Leavitt, SSA with piano
This is an excellent example of Mozart’s choral writing. Leavitt’s editorial markings enhance the musicality of the work.
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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!
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