A Little Closer (from Dear Evan Hansen) (arr. Roger Emerson) Sheet Music Preview

A Little Closer (from Dear Evan Hansen) (arr. Roger Emerson): SATB Choral Octavo

By Pasek Paul / Arranged by Roger Emerson

Item: 35-DS01039478

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 11
SKU: 35-DS01039478

More about this title

About the Composer: Pasek Paul

Benj Pasek is a lyricist and composer whose work spans Broadway, film, and television with a distinctive gift for emotional authenticity. His collaborations with composer Pasek and Dailey have produced some of the most performed contemporary musical theater scores in education and professional settings, including Dear Evan Hansen, The Greatest Showman, and La La Land.

Why we love this

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the intimate vulnerability of this song while making it accessible for high school and community choirs. The piece sits perfectly in the contemporary choral repertoire that audiences actually want to hear, and it builds genuine ensemble blend without requiring soloists to carry the emotional weight alone.

What to expect

Tender and reflective, with harmonic language that feels both modern and deeply musical. The piece invites singers into quiet introspection before building to genuine connection, capturing the quiet moments that make musical theater powerful.

Who it's for

High school, college, and community choirs looking to program meaningful contemporary material that resonates with singers and audiences alike. Directors seeking an accessible but emotionally sophisticated addition to concerts and Broadway-themed programming.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the melodic line with intentional breath placement rather than strict phrase marks; this song lives in the spaces between thoughts, so let singers find where their phrases naturally want to breathe.
  • Balance the four voices so that no part dominates; the accompaniment should anchor harmonic movement while each voice contributes equally to the overall color.
  • Explore dynamic subtlety in the lower register. Altos and basses often sit in a range where their sound can muddy if not carefully controlled, so invest rehearsal time in finding clarity without sacrificing warmth.

How to use it

Pair this with other contemporary musical theater selections to create a cohesive set that appeals to younger audiences and broadens your concert programming. It works equally well as a concert closer or as part of a larger medley celebrating recent Broadway writing.

Skills your students will build

  • Sustaining emotional focus through minimalist text and harmony
  • Balancing four independent voices without sacrificing blend
  • Interpreting contemporary harmonic language and chord movement
  • Shaping contemporary song style distinct from classical choral traditions

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