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Description
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Jason Robert Brown has established himself as one of contemporary musical theater's most distinctive voices, with a gift for character-driven storytelling and sophisticated harmonic language. His work on shows like Songs for a New World, The Parade, and 13 demonstrates his ability to write music that serves both dramatic truth and vocal accessibility, making him a go-to composer for educational theater programs seeking substantive, singable material.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures the vulnerability and honesty that makes 13 resonate with young singers while giving your SATB ensemble genuinely interesting harmonic writing. Roger Emerson's adaptation respects Brown's melodic gift and emotional core without demanding virtuosic technique, making it accessible for high school choirs that want to program contemporary musical theater with real artistic weight.
What to expect
Reflective and searching, with an underlying current of determination. The song carries the tender energy of a character examining who they want to become, balancing doubt with quiet hope. Brown's harmonic palette feels both modern and emotionally direct, giving singers the chance to inhabit a genuine theatrical moment rather than perform a production number.
Who it's for
High school and advanced middle school choirs ready to program contemporary musical theater with literary and musical substance. This works equally well for concert choirs adding Broadway material to their season and for theatrical groups building a cohesive show.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the melody line across voice parts as the arrangement passes it around; avoid letting any single voice dominate during the hand-offs.
Find the emotional truth in the lyrics before you lock the rhythms; this song works when singers understand they're exploring self-reinvention, not just singing notes.
Shape phrases with intention rather than uniformity. The song's power comes from honest, conversational delivery that avoids excessive vibrato or mannered phrasing.
Let the harmonic color breathe, especially in the sustained moments. Brown's voicings create their own atmosphere when given space and supported by clear vowel formation.
How to use it
Program this alongside other contemporary musical theater selections to build a show-focused concert, or use it as a solo piece within a broader choral season. Its moderate length and engaging contemporary style make it ideal for winter or spring concerts where you want to connect with audiences beyond the traditional classical canon.
Skills your students will build
Navigating contemporary harmonic language and jazz-influenced chord progressions
Connecting emotional subtext to vocal delivery and phrasing choices
Passing melody lines between voice parts with clear communication and blend
Singing contemporary musical theater material with authenticity rather than stylistic affectation
Sustaining longer phrases while maintaining clear diction in modern vocal writing
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