Jennifer Sutton McDonel (b. 1970) is an expert in the field of early childhood music education. She uses this deep well of knowledge as a Professor and Director of Music Education at Radford University in Virginia and a teacher/trainer for the Gordon Institute for Music Learning. She has also composed for youth bands and choirs, as well as classroom ensembles. She was educated at The Ohio State University, the Eastman School of Music (MA), and the University of Buffalo (PhD). Before moving into higher education, she taught early childhood music classes and 5-12 instrumental music. Learn more about her at Radford University, Schott Music, and the Wind Repertory Project.

McDonel wrote Appalachian Whisper in 2006 for Boosey & Hawkes’s Windependence series, at the Novice level. It features an original melody in an Appalachian style, and includes an optional part for vocal soloist. McDonel describes it in her program note in the score:

As I began writing the melody, it reminded me of lullabies sung to me as a child. “Whisper Song” was the working title, reflecting the low and hushed tones of a mother’s lullaby. Thinking back to my childhood in West Virginia, I remember my grandmother singing with me at the piano when I was young, and the folk music my grandparents listened to. Because the melody is simple and folk-like, I decided that the title, “Appalachian Whisper” more accurately reflected my roots and the songs I heard in my own childhood. Additionally, I am now passing along the tradition of singing lullabies and making music with my own children. This song is dedicated to the memory of my grandma, Winona Sutton, and to my children, Kate and Grant.

This piece is written with a young band in mind. Doubling of parts across sections makes for easy coverage of all essential lines in the music. Melodic interest is given to each section of the band in various places in the music, while keeping the range accessible to young players. Key changes and tempo changes add variety as thee melody is passed around the sections.

The music could retain its melodic and harmonic integrity with only a few key parts: flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, and any of the low brass or low woodwind instruments. Percussion adds color effects and rhythmic movement, but could be reduced at the director’s discretion if the size of the percussion ensemble is small.

Another feature of the piece are the lyrics that “tell the story.” A soloist or small choral ensemble could easily be added to enhance the overall effect. The result is a work in verse form with a single melody running throughout.

Listen to Appalachian Whisper:

Also check out this live version with the vocal solo added:

For more on Appalachian Whisper, visit Boosey & Hawkes, Sheet Music Plus, Groth Music, and the Wind Repertory Project.