As It Was (arr. Ed Aldcroft): SATB Choral Octavo

Ed Aldcroft's arrangement captures the reflective introspection of 'As It Was' while giving SATB choirs genuine musical material to sink their teeth into. The pop idiom paired with four-part writing creates an entry point for singers who might otherwise feel disconnected from concert repertoire, and the song's emotional restraint rewards careful attention to blend and phrasing.

Intimate and gently reflective, with moments of subtle buildup that emerge from careful part writing rather than orchestration. The arrangement honors the original's emotional restraint while allowing the choir to create texture and depth through vocal harmony, resulting in something that feels both personal and ensemble-driven.

Choirs seeking contemporary repertoire that doesn't sacrifice musical substance for accessibility. Directors working with high school or college ensembles who want to program music their students recognize and connect with emotionally. This works equally well for community choirs exploring pop arrangements with artistic integrity.

• Prioritize consistent vowel shapes across all four parts, especially during the sustained passages where the arrangement opens up texturally. Small adjustments in vowel placement yield dramatic improvements in blend.
• Let the rhythm section lock in first if using accompaniment tracks. Once drums and bass establish the groove, the voices sit more naturally into the pocket rather than fighting against the track.
• Shape the dynamic arc through the entire piece rather than treating each section as isolated. This arrangement likely builds gradually, so resist the urge to peak too early.
• Isolate the soprano and tenor lines separately in early rehearsals. These upper voices often carry the melodic identity, and getting them secure allows altos and basses to find their harmonic role with confidence.

Consider pairing this with other contemporary pop arrangements or art songs for a concert that explores how musical ideas translate across genres. The six-page length makes it manageable as a standalone number or as part of a thematic set addressing memory, change, or introspection. This also serves well in spring concerts where audiences appreciate a mix of traditional and modern work.

• Blending in sustained harmonic passages
• Navigating pop idioms with classical choral technique
• Maintaining ensemble cohesion in minimalist arrangements
• Interpreting contemporary vocal music with artistic restraint