Put That Screen Away!: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Words and music by Wayne Dauer
Item: 00-PO-0007594
$2.30
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
This tech-centric novelty number is one that every kid can relate to. What happens when your parents say your screen time is up?! Find out in this mini-melodrama presented as a 3.5-minute song. Though a few tech troubles surface, the theatrical storytelling and retro groove are sure to prove more reliable than your wifi connection. Keep streaming until the very end to find out what happens. Fresh and fun!
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0007594
More about this title
About the Composer: Wayne Dauer
Wayne Dauer has shaped young musicians' lives for over twenty-five years, working primarily with elementary and middle school students across Australia. His university training spanned piano, voice, classical guitar, and choral conducting, with composition study under Mary Mageau and other leading Australian composers. Beyond his work in the classroom, he has created educational programs for guitar, ukulele, and percussion while authoring hundreds of songs for children.
In recent years, Dauer has focused on composing choral music specifically for younger ensembles, drawing directly from the personalities and experiences of his own students. He views music as transformative across mental, physical, social, and emotional dimensions and remains committed to making music accessible and enjoyable for students of all abilities.
Why we love this
This piece taps into something every middle schooler knows: the daily battle over screen time. Dauer captures the humor and drama of that moment without being preachy, pairing relatable storytelling with a groove that actually sounds fun to sing. It's the rare novelty number that works both as entertainment and as genuine choral music, giving students a reason to care about ensemble cohesion and timing rather than just getting through a silly song.
What to expect
A comedic mini-play wrapped in a song with enough groove to make the theatricality stick. The retro musical backdrop gives it charm while the tech-trouble storytelling keeps it grounded in the present moment, making it feel both timely and playful.
Who it's for
Middle school and early high school choirs looking for contemporary repertoire that resonates with student performers. This works equally well for concert performance or assembly settings where relatability and humor serve the educational goal.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the narrative arc by varying dynamic levels between the spoken or sung dialogue and the choir responses; this creates clarity and keeps the listener engaged through the 3.5-minute arc.
- Lock in the retro groove by establishing a steady pulse during rehearsals and having students feel the beat internally even during rests; this prevents the piece from dragging when multiple sections interlock.
- Balance the two vocal parts so neither overshadows the other during unison or harmony passages, particularly when tech references create points of comedic emphasis that could tempt over-singing.
How to use it
Program this as a lighter moment in a choral concert, particularly when surrounded by more traditional or serious repertoire. It also works well for back-to-school assemblies or as part of a show where student engagement and laughter are priorities.
Skills your students will build
- Rhythmic precision in a groove-based setting
- Dramatic interpretation and expression within a choral context
- Part independence and blend in 2-part writing
- Phrasing and timing coordination across ensemble dialogue