John Leavitt has built a distinguished career arranging popular music for choral ensembles at every level. His arrangements are known for their accessibility without sacrificing musicality, making contemporary material engaging for young singers while maintaining artistic integrity.
Why we love this
Leavitt captures the soaring melodic grace of this iconic tune while crafting parts that sit comfortably for developing voices. The SSA voicing keeps the arrangement agile and bright, perfect for singers who are still building range and confidence but ready for a song with real emotional weight.
What to expect
The arrangement honors the soaring optimism and romance of the original while maintaining a lyrical simplicity that keeps singers emotionally connected to the text. The three-part voicing creates warmth and depth without overwhelming newer singers, allowing them to experience the joy of singing something genuinely moving.
Who it's for
This arrangement works for middle school and early high school choirs, community choirs, and wedding/celebration singers looking for an accessible yet polished arrangement of a universally beloved song. It suits ensembles with solid pitch control but without the advanced range or technique that some Disney arrangements demand.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the soprano line against the inner voices; the melody should float over the harmonic foundation rather than compete with it.
Shape the phrases with purposeful breath placement. Mark your breaths together so the line feels connected even when individual singers need to breathe.
Let the harmonic shifts in the middle section create natural dynamic contours. Leavitt's voice leading invites subtle dynamic shaping that reflects the emotional arc.
Rehearse the alto and second soprano parts separately early on to secure the harmonies before blending all three voices together.
How to use it
Feature this as a concert opener to engage your audience immediately with a universally recognized melody, or use it as a lighter moment in a program exploring Disney or contemporary pop arrangements. It also works beautifully for spring concerts, variety shows, or any occasion calling for uplifting, accessible repertoire that doesn't require extensive rehearsal time.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining long phrases with proper breath support
Listening for and maintaining harmonic accuracy in three-part texture
Expressive phrasing in accessible popular music
Blending voices while keeping individual line clarity
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