Commercial and Contemporary

Carol Joy Sparkman, Commercial and Contemporary R&R Chair

Thankful

SATB (also available SSA, SAB, 2-part, TTB)

Arr. Mark Hayes

Shawnee 35029994

I have a student in my choir who is a Jehovah’s Witness and cannot participate when I choose traditional holiday pieces. We were competing in a caroling contest and I wanted to include this student. “Thankful” is a beautiful piece, with a lovely melody, and soaring lines. It is very accessible for HS choirs, and perfect for a holiday concert, or end-of-the-year concert. 

I Feel the Earth

SSAA

Arr. Deke Sharon

Hal Leonard 00114543

I enjoy using this piece to teach the contemporary a cappella style of singing. Sometimes it is difficult for students to “switch gears” from good tall vowels and round sounds, to the more narrow vowels of pop singing. This piece is not very difficult and includes all of the elements of contemporary a cappella: solo, neutral syllable accompaniment, and close harmonies. You could even add a vocal percussion improv! 

The Star Spangled Banner

SSAA

Arr. Deke Sharon

Dekesharon.com

If you are looking for a non-traditional arrangement of our national anthem, look no further than Deke Sharon’s website. Students enjoy singing it and it comes in various voicings. Best part?? It’s free…but only on Deke’s website. ms

A Cappella Pop: A Complete Guide to Contemporary A Cappella Singing by Brody McDonald. 

This book gives an introduction to the world of contemporary a cappella singing. This book will answer the basic questions of how to audition a group, how to select much and many more. For the techies, it is available as a Kindle download. It is a great reference for the novice or experienced a cappella director.