The Scarecrow

SATB

“Our students thoroughly enjoyed learning and premiering The Scarecrow. Not only did they love the spooky nature of the pieces for our fall concert in October, the fact that the pieces were written specifically for them was what made it such a fun and unique experience… My students still talk about how much fun they had with this experience!”

— Heather Goodger, Choir Director at Snyder High School

Lyrics

“My limbs are no longer tied
I am so happy; I’m free!”

Says the Scarecrow, as he treads the ground
Terrorizing all around
Careful evil fuels his might
Marching onward through the night

Just one seed of opportunity
Is all he needs to take hold of your insecurities

For the Scarecrow strikes when you least expect
Calculated hits and jabs
An offset sun, that gives him strength
Growing through your fears and angst

Yes, he knows no bounds if he’s set free
Care not of wealth or poverty
It is only a matter of time
’Til the Scarecrow arrives

Most are frailer than they seem
Always fighting from beneath
So let your Sun shine everyday
For there’s a Scarecrow in you and me.

About the Music

The Scarecrow is about the moments of mental vulnerability we all face, and the importance of letting our light shine for those who may be struggling with it around us. Set in 12/8, prominent staccato notes enforce pitch accuracy front and center, while the melody trades back and forth between the men and women so both sections get a turn to lead. Stomps and claps are built in for an extra layer of energy.

Behind the Music

My first traditionally published piece was called Eclipse, which was composed for a small high school choir in Clyde, Texas. However, a year before that, I composed The Scarecrow for a small high school choir in Snyder, Texas — directed by Heather Goodger. The reason I mention this is because I view The Scarecrow as a sort of “big sister” to Eclipse, as there are multiple similarities between them musically (minor key, rhythmic, 12/8 time signature, etc.). The similarities end when it comes to the actual story that’s being told. While Eclipse represents fear of the unknown, The Scarecrow represents known fear. That is, fear that can exist within ourselves, such as depression and anxiety. It acts as a warning, reminding us that we each have our moments of mental vulnerability, no matter what it may seem like on the outside. So let your light — that is, your “Sun” — be magnified to everyone around you!

The online premiere of the ’26–’27 CFM Choral Catalog, which features ten never-before-released choral compositions by Christian Fortner. During this online event, Christian speaks about the primary uses for each piece in your choir program. Whether you direct a middle school, high school, or college-level choir, there is something here for you!