Challenge Yields Change

"If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you."
                                                       -Fred DeVito

It's important to introduce our students to music that will motivate them to grow as musicians and individuals. Finding pieces with just the right amount of challenge can be difficult, however, as there's often a fine line between too challenging and not challenging enough. The music below addresses this balancing act by incorporating musical aspects that will stretch your singers while also inspiring them to reach for heightened levels of musical artistry.


The Choir Invisible
Carson Cooman

Bold musical lines and expansive harmonies distinguish Carson Cooman's powerful and introspective setting of this well-known George Eliot text. So shall I join the choir invisible whose music is the gladness of the world.

SATB



Remember
Victor C. Johnson

Victor Johnson presents wonderful moments for expressive singing and artistic phrasing in Remember. Cascading sixteenth note motifs and a rich harmonic palette unite the musical fabric and amplify the image-laden text. Then in a rising melody, the songs of earth called out to me ... and music flowed from my heart again.

SATB 



Upon a Wheel of Cloud
J.D. Frizzell

A dazzling showpiece for mature ensembles, J.D. Frizzell's masterful choral writing frames a classic Emily Dickinson poem in this dramatic setting. Upon a Wheel of Cloud begins a cappella and develops into a captivating interplay of vocal lines and piano.

SATB



Three Choral Ayres
Joseph Willcox Jenkins

This set of engaging madrigals by Joseph Willcox Jenkins includes three short movements designed to be performed as a single work. Full of choral color and compositional texture, this collection is well suited for the accomplished ensemble.

SATB



In That Great Gittin' Up Mornin'
Mark Hayes

From Mark Hayes's popular Spirit Suite, this setting of the spiritual standard features uplifting harmony and inventive accompaniment that supports the text and tune. Highlight an exceptional female voice with the optional soprano solo!

SATB


________________________________________________


Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

New Music for Two-part Choirs

Here are some new two-part pieces for your spring concert consideration!


How Doth the Little Crocodile
Mark Burrows

A delightful musical interpretation of the beloved Lewis Carroll poem, this piece is easy to put together and is an excellent choice for a choir's first experience with part-singing. The catchy melody transitions to a round in two or three parts, giving you practical options for your beginning choirs.

Two-part or Three-part Equal Voices





Out of This World
Julie Gardner Bray

Full of stylistic variety and tonal color, this piece includes a positive message about how imagination and forward thinking sets us free to accomplish great things. I'm riding the tail of a comet, floating through new galaxies. If you're looking for me, you'll find me taking my place among the stars.

Two-part




Ripple of Kindness
Donna Butler Douglas

Artful tonal shifts with a splendid modulation grace this effective piece for young voices that features a meaningful text reflecting on how we all play a part in spreading joy and goodwill as we each make a difference in building a better world.

Two-part





Go Down, Moses
Russell Robinson

Elegantly set to bring out the best in young voices, this cool jazz, laid-back treatment of a favorite spiritual is loads of fun to sing! The repeated sections aid in quick learning and make for a great piece for any program.

Two-part

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, here is a performance of Linda Spevacek's"Irish Blessing."

"May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand."

For more information on this piece, click here or on the cover image above

Festival Music for the Middle School Choral Classroom

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Choral Director

Last month, I put together a blog post that highlighted secondary selections that would bring the festival experience to your high school choral classroom. This post is a follow-up to that post and includes selections for middle school choirs. All of the pieces below have been performed in a variety of festival settings and will recreate this transformative experience in your middle school choral classroom. Enjoy!


Bonse Aba
Victor C. Johnson

Sizzling with celebratory energy, this African folk song loosely translates: "Those that sing have the right to be called the children of God." Hand drum, djembe, and shaker add authentic flavor and opportunities for improvisation, and the vocal parts are repetitive and easy to learn.

Three-part Mixed, Two-part, SATB, SSA, and TTB


Here is a performance by the 2011 Nashua All City Middle School Chorus...

Cantate Deo
G. F. Handel/Becki Slagle Mayo

Becki Slagle Mayo creatively adapts the Hornpipe movement from Handel's Water Music Suite for voices. Complete with original text, contrapuntal texture, and imitative vocal lines, this festive choral gem is sure to make an impact.

Two-part and Three-part Mixed




I Hear America Singing
André J. Thomas

This stunning selection is the perfect attention-grabber for the beginning or conclusion of a concert. Quoting the traditional spiritual Walk Together, Children, André Thomas creates an energetic and rhythmic experience that will make choirs of all shapes and sizes feel successful.

Three-part Mixed, Two-part, SATB, and SSA



Here is a mass choir performance from the 2010 St. Olaf College Choral Day...

She Sings
Amy F. Bernon

The haunting yet whimsical quality of this piece is truly refreshing. Centered around a child who loves to sing during the day and at night "cries for those who have never loved and for those who never sing," this endearing selection will stir the emotions of the audience.

Three-part Mixed, Two-part, SATB, and SSA



 Here is a performance by the 2009 IMEA Middle School Honor Choir...

Oh, Won't You Sit Down?
Greg Gilpin

Greg Gilpin works his magic with this absolutely infectious arrangement! Through the use of rounds, vocal ostinatos and dynamic contrasts, all will be instantly engaged in this energetic and fun-filled work.

Three-part Mixed, Two-part, and SATB




 Here is a performance by the 2008 GMEA All State Middle School Mixed Choir...

____________________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

Festival Music for the Choral Classroom

Selections for Secondary Choirs

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Choral Director

What is it that makes the honor choir experience so special? Most would probably say that it's the sense of community, the high level of musicality demanded, and the pride that comes along with seeing how focused preparation yields positive, inspiring results. The selections below have all been performed in a variety of festival settings. If you're going to be conducting an honor choir, or if you're looking to recreate this transformative experience in your choral classroom, I highly recommended these tried-and-true selections.


Do, Lord, Remember Me
André J. Thomas

André Thomas presents the traditional spiritual in an energetic and dynamic fashion. Including accessible vocal parts that are supported by a rhythmically and harmonically fresh accompaniment, both choirs and audiences will both enjoy this rousing piece.

SATB


Here is a performance by the 2013 Florida All State Concert Choir...
 

In Paradisum
Gabriel Fauré/arr. Earlene Rentz

This lovely piece features a simplified accompaniment that retains Fauré's original harmonies. Care has been given to voice leading so that singers of all skill levels can sing the luscious chord changes and progressions that characterize this well-respected work.

SSA





Will There Really Be a Morning?
Victor C. Johnson

Victor Johnson combines a thought-provoking poem by Emily Dickinson with a tender original melody. Exquisite vocal lines, lush harmonies, and a sensitive accompaniment ensure that this heartfelt setting will make an impact.

SATB and TTBB





Gloria
André J. Thomas

Commissioned for the finale of the 2015 ACDA High School Honor Choir concert, this gospel-style selection features energetic vocals supported by a driving piano accompaniment. Singers and audiences alike will appreciate this spirited piece.

SATB



Here is a performance by the 2015 ACDA National Conference HS Mixed Honor Choir...

Inscription of Hope
Z. Randall Stroope

Limited ranges, an a cappella section, and narration contribute to the effectiveness of this song of hope. Incorporating fragments of a Russian folk melody and a Jewish text, the message is universal: hope and firm belief will reign victorious over even the greatest of odds.

TTB/TBB, SATB, SSA, Three-part Mixed, and Two-part


Here is a performance by the 2010 Suffolk All County Choir...

____________________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

MS/JH Contest Selections

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Choral Director

For music educators, the last half of the year is often just as busy, if not more so, than the first. We understand that the last thing you have time for is an extended search for the perfect, hand-selected contest piece. So that you can spend more time rehearsing and less time reviewing, we've gone through the selection process for you. The five pieces below will inspire your singers towards success in the classroom and on the stage!
 

Festival Gloria
Richard A. Williamson

This energetic, forward-moving concert work is a great learning piece for beginning mixed choirs, with diverse musical styles and engaging vocal lines that flatter a choir of any size.

Three-part Mixed




Lux Aeterna
Mark Burrows

This is a stunning work for young voices that creates a simple beauty from emotional melodic lines. The timeless Latin text comes from the Requiem mass. Light eternal, shine on them. A richly orchestrated performance/accompaniment CD is also available.

Two-part and Three-part Mixed

I Never Saw a Moor
Victor C. Johnson

Emily Dickinson’s inspiring poem receives Victor Johnson’s sensitive musical touch in this impassioned concert selection. With opportunities to teach lyrical singing techniques, phrase shaping, and dynamic contouring and music that naturally promotes a mature sound, this piece is destined to become a repertoire staple.

Three-part Mixed and SATB




If Music Be the Food of Love
Henry Purcell/arr. Russell Robinson

Russell Robinson presents this choral masterwork by Henry Purcell in a well-constructed arrangement for middle school mixed choirs. The music for the first and second verses is identical to aid in quick learning of this especially fine contest selection.

Three-part Mixed, opt. a cappella





Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho
André J. Thomas
André Thomas was at his creative best when he wrote this energy-driven setting of the spiritual standard. The repeated material makes for quick memorization, allowing you to easily and effectively showcase your singers in a vibrant program pleaser that utilizes a cool jazz piano accompaniment.
Three-part Mixed, SATB, and TTB/TBB




__________________________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

It's National Kazoo Day!

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Kazoo Enthusiast

I'm sure I'm not telling you something you don't already know, but today, Jan. 28, is National Kazoo Day! Do you know how this incredibly fun instrument came into existence? Here's a brief video outlining the history of the instrument, just in case your answer to the above question was "no":

Naturally, we felt it was necessary to put together a kazoo band to celebrate this momentous day (while also celebrating "too much fun at work day!", admittedly). Enjoy the world premiere below, and three cheers to the kazoo!

______________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

Contest Selections for Secondary Choirs

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Choral Director

The Christmas season is often coined the busiest time of the year. If you're a music educator, however, Christmas doesn't hold a candle (pun intended) to the months of January through May. With the start of the new year come preparations for solo and ensemble, contest, musicals, and spring concerts, not to mention fundraisers for all of the above.

With all that you have going on, the last thing that you have time for is an extended search for the perfect, hand-selected contest piece. Because we want you to be able to spend more time rehearsing and less time reviewing, we've selected five pieces of music that we're confident will inspire your singers and captivate the judges.

Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho
André J. Thomas

André Thomas was at his creative best when he wrote this energy-driven setting of the spiritual standard. The repeated material makes for quick memorization, allowing you to easily and effectively showcase your singers in a vibrant program pleaser that utilizes a cool jazz piano accompaniment.

SATB, TTB/TBB, and Three-part Mixed




Cool Moon
Richard A. Williamson

With limited horizontal movement in the vocal parts and no awkward melodic skips, Richard Williamson’s Cool Moon offers an easy and effective introduction into contemporary a cappella singing. Soothing harmonies enhance this beautiful pairing of words and music.

SATB, a cappella



Don't You Weep, Don't You Mourn
Bryan Sharpe

Cool vocal jazz elements in a relaxed swing style bring this traditional African-American text to life in a fresh, original work. With independent parts and spontaneous twists and turns throughout, it would be equally effective programmed with a full choir or a smaller ensemble drawn from your best singers.

SATB, a cappella




Down by the Salley Gardens
Douglas E. Wagner

This beloved Irish folk song includes the words of William Butler Yeats in an unusual arrangement for women's voices. The vocal parts combine with the masterfully written piano part to add a depth to the musical fabric that will make this piece a lasting and substantial contribution to the concert and contest repertoire.

SSA and TTB/TBB




And Music Shall Untune the Sky
Douglas E. Wagner

Showcase the fullness and strength of the male voice with this robust setting of a powerful passage from Dryden’s A Song for St. Cecilia’s Day. An exceptional opener, this selection would make a dramatic first impression at any concert or contest. "The trumpet shall be heard on high and music shall untune the sky."

TTBB and SATB


_____________________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading. 
 

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.

Show Starters and Stoppers

Developing Choirs

by Mark Jauss, Advertising Associate and Choral Director

Finding the right piece to open and close a concert is often one of the most time-consuming concert programming tasks. We understand this struggle and provide music that will highlight your choir during these important moments. The "show starters and stoppers" below will grab your audience's attention and have them begging for an encore!



A Merry, Merry Christmas to You!
Douglas E. Wagner
Sing good wishes to all in this festive offering that creatively incorporates the familiar We Wish You a Merry Christmas tune. Accessible ranges and straightforward counterpoint make this seasonal winner a snap to learn and a joy to perform.

Three-part Mixed and Two-part

Baby Born in Bethlehem
Victor C. Johnson
Quoting Go, Tell It On the Mountain, the excitement surrounding Christmas comes to life in this rockin’ gospel-style selection. Add a driving piano bass line and an optional synth track accompaniment, and you have a piece that's sure to bring energy to any choral concert!

Three-part Mixed and SATB







Jing Jingle Bells
Douglas E. Wagner

Create an exhilarating, feel-good experience with this bright arrangement of the seasonal classic that is paired with a clever original melody. The optional accompaniment puts the final tinsel on the tree and guarantees fun for all at your next holiday concert.

Three-part Mixed or Two-part





Mozart's Celebration Canon
Tom Fettke
Full of teachable moments, this mini-Mozart masterpiece features a fresh text that is fun and easy to memorize. Opening with the harmonized tune, the music gives way to each part singing the melody in canon over the supportive piano accompaniment. Spread the tidings far and wide, love will come at Christmastide...let’s Celebrate!

SAB and SATB





Have a Merry One!
Mary Lynn Lightfoot
An ideal opener or closer that incorporates snippets of Deck the Hall and We Wish You a Merry Christmas, this holiday selection is a quick learn! The clever conclusion builds in intensity and culminates in a resounding wish for all to Have a merry one!

Three-part Mixed, Two-part, and SSA






________________________________________________

Mark is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, OH, having received a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in choral conducting. 

 

Before coming to Lorenz, Mark was the director of choirs at both Howard W. Blake High School for the Performing Arts in Tampa, FL, and Monroe Jr./Sr. High School in Monroe, OH.  Mark is also currently the director of the KCC Concert Choir, an advanced treble choir within the Kettering Children’s Choir organization. The group has toured extensively, and recently sang in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. and with the South Cape Children’s Choir and various performing ensembles on a tour throughout South Africa. In the Spring of 2015, Mark also had the privilege of preparing the choir for performances of the Britten War Requiem under the baton of Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops. In addition, Mark has been the music director at his church since the age of 18, and regularly travels throughout the country giving workshops on conducting and worship leading.  

Mark is the blessed husband of Jennifer and proud father of Michael and Ellie.