Ask Me to Sing: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

This piece strikes the rare balance between emotional accessibility and theatrical sophistication. The progression from intimate simplicity to a soaring finish gives singers a genuine arc to perform, not just sing through, and the contemporary musical-theater language speaks directly to student musicians. The inclusion of choreography options on the DVD and at alfred.com/video means you can build movement into your rehearsal without starting from scratch.

The piece opens with quiet vulnerability, inviting listeners into a personal moment. As it unfolds, it gathers hope and strength, building toward a finish that feels genuinely cathartic rather than artificially climactic. There's something both theatrical and deeply sincere about the musical-theater style Albrecht and Althouse have chosen, creating space for singers to connect with the message rather than simply execute the notes.

Choirs of intermediate to advanced ability who are ready for contemporary musical-theater repertoire with substance. This works equally well for middle school honor choirs, high school ensembles, and community or church choirs seeking a modern piece with emotional depth and programmatic versatility.

• Build the intensity gradually from the opening simplicity; resist the urge to sing dramatically early. The power comes from restraint followed by release.
• Secure the harmonic progression in your voice sections before adding any choreography. Clean voicing will make the staging choices land harder.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to establish the intended tempo and emotional pacing in early rehearsals, then gradually move toward a cappella control if desired.
• Shape the final phrases with careful attention to dynamics and breath placement. A rushed ending loses the 'whole' the text promises.

Its versatility makes it ideal for multiple programming situations. Open a concert with it to set a thoughtful, uplifting tone, or close with it for a memorable final impression. It also works beautifully in combined choir concerts where mixed ensembles come together, and its inspirational message and accessible style make it a strong choice for contests and festivals.

• Building dynamic intensity over an extended phrase
• Blending contemporary musical-theater vocabulary with choral technique
• Coordinating vocal performance with choreography
• Sustaining emotional commitment through a multi-section arrangement
• Balancing solo and ensemble singing within a unison or homophonic texture