Benj Pasek and Justin Paul are the songwriting team behind some of the most performed contemporary musical theater scores. Their work on The Greatest Showman introduced millions of listeners to soaring, emotionally direct melodies that sit naturally in the voice while remaining harmonically interesting. In educational settings, their songs have become staples because they balance accessibility with genuine artistic substance.
Why we love this
Mac Huff's arrangement opens this achingly beautiful melody to four-part harmony without losing the song's intimate, reflective quality. The orchestral ambition of the original translates into choral writing that feels both singable and full, giving every section meaningful material rather than relegating anyone to filler.
What to expect
This is aspirational music without sentimentality, fueled by hope and wonder rather than grandeur. The arrangement captures that meditative quality of imagining something beautiful into existence, with harmonies that feel earned rather than ornamental.
Who it's for
Choirs ranging from high school to community level benefit from this arrangement, especially ensembles comfortable with sustained legit singing and emotional vulnerability. Directors seeking repertoire that bridges commercial and choral traditions will find immediate use here, and audiences consistently connect with music from this score.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the long phrases by thinking horizontally rather than metrically; breathe sparingly and let the melody arch naturally across bar lines rather than settling at predictable intervals.
Balance the soprano line as the primary anchor while ensuring alto and tenor voices support without drowning the primary voice; this isn't a tutti texture even when all four parts sing.
Record a rehearsal take midway through preparation and listen back as an ensemble; this piece responds well to ensemble self-critique and hearing how blend and intonation are developing.
Introduce the piece with context about what the song represents in the film; singers who understand the emotional core invest differently in the musical storytelling.
How to use it
Pair this with other contemporary film/Broadway selections to create a thematic concert exploring how popular music is adapted for choirs, or use it as an accessible opener that draws audiences in before programming more challenging repertoire. It also serves well as a community engagement piece, since many listeners recognize it immediately.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining pure vowel sounds over sustained melodic lines
Balancing harmonic transparency with full choral texture
Performing legit vocal technique in a contemporary context
Shaping longer musical phrases without excessive breathing
Ensemble listening and blend refinement
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