A Wish Worth Making (from Wish) (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's two-part setting captures the hopeful, intimate quality of the original while remaining genuinely singable for developing choirs. The arrangement avoids oversimplification, offering real harmonic interest without overwhelming singers learning contemporary voicings. It's the kind of Disney repertoire that earns applause because the students sound genuinely musical, not because the piece is easy.

The song carries an almost conversational tenderness, with moments of quiet wonder that build to genuine emotional stakes. There's a contemporary pop sensibility in the melody and phrasing that feels fresh alongside traditional choral fare, yet the arrangement respects the song's intimate heart.

This arrangement works for middle school, high school, and community choirs seeking accessible contemporary film music with substance. Two-part writing makes it ideal for treble choirs or mixed ensembles building toward SATB repertoire.

• Shape the opening phrases with subtle dynamics; the magic of this song lives in understated vulnerability rather than belted power.
• Balance the two parts carefully in sections where they diverge. The higher line should support rather than dominate the lower part's melody.
• Pay attention to text articulation in the wish-making moments; clear diction here drives the emotional arc without sacrificing legit singing.
• Let the arrangement breathe by resisting the urge to push tempo. This piece earns its impact through genuine connection, not momentum.

This pairs beautifully on a concert focused on animated film music or modern storytelling through song. It works equally well as a winter concert selection or as a showcase piece for students exploring how pop songwriting translates to ensemble singing.

• Phrasing and text expression in contemporary idioms
• Balance and blend between two independent lines
• Sustaining legit tone while singing modern pop melodies
• Emotional storytelling within a secular, character-driven context