Almost Like Being In Love (from Brigadoon) (arr. Roger Emerson): 3-Part Mixed Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's three-part arrangement preserves the romantic warmth of this Brigadoon classic while making it genuinely singable for mixed ensembles without sacrificing harmonic interest. The piece sits naturally for developing voices and works equally well as a concert centerpiece or as part of a musical theater unit that doesn't require full production resources.

A moment of discovery and wonder. The melody carries that distinctive Loewe quality of appearing simple while containing subtle harmonic turns that catch the ear. Singing it creates intimacy within the ensemble, even in full voice.

High school and community choirs seeking accessible three-part repertoire with genuine harmonic substance. This works for groups with limited rehearsal time but intermediate musicianship, as the part writing demands secure breath control and intonation without requiring extreme ranges.

• Shape the melodic line with gentle legato phrasing; this song depends on the warmth of sustained vowels rather than rhythmic articulation.
• Balance the three parts so the melody reads clearly without overwhelming the supporting harmonies, which add essential color to Loewe's chromatic language.
• Allow the text to breathe naturally in places like 'Maybe soon we'll find we're living in a world where two people together is something very swell.' Resist rushing through the more conversational moments.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to lock tempos and maintain the gentle swing that keeps the piece from feeling precious or overwrought.

Pair this with other Lerner and Loewe selections for a Golden Age retrospective, or use it as a standalone romantic centerpiece in a concert that balances heavier repertoire. It also serves effectively in choral festivals where three-part mixed voicing requirements narrow repertoire options.

• Sustaining lyrical phrases across musical phrases rather than at bar lines
• Navigating chromatic voice leading in the middle parts
• Balancing melody and harmony within mixed voicing
• Interpreting the text with conversational naturalness while maintaining musical line