Breakaway Sheet Music Preview

Breakaway: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Words and music by Matthew Gerrard, Bridget Benenate, and Avril Lavigne / arr. Andy Beck

Item: 00-PO-0005511

Digital Download
$2.10

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

One moment…

Description
American Idol sensation Kelly Clarkson has given us some of radio's top pop hits, including this uplifting anthem, which delivers an inspirational message with tuneful and accessible pop harmonies. A powerful piece for 2-part choirs of any age!

Breakaway: 2-Part Choral Octavo isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.

Sample Audio
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 12
SKU: 00-PO-0005511

More about this title

About the Composer: Matthew Gerrard

Matthew Gerrard is a Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter who has crafted chart-topping hits across pop, R&B, and dance music. His work spans collaborations with major recording artists and original compositions that balance commercial appeal with genuine musicality, making his catalog a natural fit for choral adaptation.

Why we love this

Andy Beck's arrangement strips away production polish while keeping the song's emotional core intact. The 2-part voicing opens this anthem to younger singers and smaller ensembles without sacrificing the lift and confidence the melody demands. It's the rare pop arrangement that feels both contemporary and genuinely singable.

What to expect

Uplifting and direct, this arrangement captures the song's message of resilience without manufactured drama. The harmonies are straightforward enough to feel natural but warm enough to reward good blend, creating moments where singers hear themselves as part of something genuinely moving.

Who it's for

This octavo works for middle school through adult choirs seeking accessible pop repertoire with real substance. Groups new to contemporary styles and those building ensemble confidence will find the 2-part voicing inviting without feeling condescending.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the melody to emphasize the lyrical arc rather than treating each phrase equally; let the inspirational message come through the phrasing, not just the notes.
  • Balance the two parts so neither overwhelms the other; the harmony supports the lead without obscuring it, so check blend during sections where parts move in parallel.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment to lock in the groove and tempo, but rehearse a cappella sections to build vocal independence and confidence in pitch.
  • Approach dynamics with intention; the piece gains power through controlled crescendos, not sudden jumps in volume.

How to use it

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements to show your audience the range of repertoire available to modern choirs, or place it in a concert celebrating songs about perseverance and personal growth. It also works as an encore or closing number when you want to send audiences home feeling inspired without ending on a heavy piece.

Skills your students will build

  • Singing in contemporary pop style with authentic phrasing
  • Blending two-part harmony with clear diction in English lyrics
  • Interpreting lyrics musically to serve emotional content
  • Flexibility in mixed rhythm patterns common to modern pop

You May Also Like