Best of Friends: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Greg Gilpin's arrangement pairs Porter's classic "Friendship" with an original partner song that creates natural, complementary vocal lines. The easy Grade 1 level makes this accessible to developing choirs without sacrificing the sophisticated charm that makes Porter's writing so enjoyable. It's a rare combination piece that works equally well for a spring concert, friendship-themed program, or as a confidence builder for younger singers.

The pairing creates a light, conversational mood that feels like two friends having a chat. Porter's melody is warm and approachable, with text that's both clever and earnest about what friendship means. Together, the two songs create an intimate moment that audiences find both entertaining and genuinely touching.

This arrangement is designed for treble or mixed choirs at the Grade 1 level, including middle school choirs, elementary honor choirs, and developing high school groups. Young singers benefit from the straightforward vocal writing while learning to sing genuine American theatrical music with style.

• Balance the two songs as equal partners. The original song and "Friendship" should feel like they belong together, not like one dominates the other. Rehearse them as a unit from the start.
• Shape each melodic phrase with natural speech rhythm. Porter's lyrics are conversational and witty; let the text drive the phrasing rather than treating it as a formal melody.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to establish secure ensemble entrances and to help singers hear how their parts fit with the full texture.

Program this as a standalone concert number that stands out from typical choral repertoire, or pair it with other folk-style or contemporary pieces for a thematic program about relationships or community. The short duration and engaging text make it effective as a confidence builder earlier in the season, clearing the way for more complex repertoire.

• Singing partner songs with independent melodic lines
• Interpreting theatrical text with appropriate phrasing and character
• Balancing ensemble blend while maintaining lyrical independence
• Listening to and following recorded accompaniment tracks