Dream: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Souders writes with a clarity of purpose that feels refreshing: this is a contemporary piece designed to make young singers want to come to rehearsal. The rock groove propels the song forward without becoming gimmicky, and the layered bridge sections give singers genuine harmonic interest while staying well within 2-part accessibility. A piece that earns the word "crowd-pleaser" because it's genuinely well-crafted for its intended singers.

This piece radiates optimism without sentimentality. The rock groove creates forward momentum that keeps the energy bright and youthful, while the bridge stacking builds genuine musical tension and release. By the final section, singers and audiences alike feel the power of layered voices delivering an affirming message together.

2-part choirs in elementary and middle school settings will find this piece energizing and achievable. The uplifting message and contemporary sound appeal to young singers who might not connect with more traditional repertoire, while the musical writing respects their growing harmonic awareness.

• Establish the groove early by having the choir feel the rock rhythm as an internal pulse rather than counting beats; once they own the pocket, the piece locks together naturally.
• Layer the bridge sections gradually during rehearsal, starting with one group singing while the other listens, then bringing both parts in to feel the stacking effect before you reach the final build.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to teach the rock feel and harmonic structure; students learn the style more efficiently by singing against an authentic rhythm section.
• Shape the final section by planning a dynamic arc from the bridge into the finish; let the excitement build organically rather than jumping to full volume all at once.

Program this as an anchor piece in a winter or spring concert where you want to shift the mood toward contemporary, uplifting material. It pairs well after more traditional selections, serving as a tone-setter that reconnects the audience with the choir's energy. The positive message and crowd appeal make it ideal for pep assemblies, community events, or anytime you want to showcase your choir's versatility.

• Singing rhythmically independent lines in a rock/contemporary style
• Blending harmonic parts while maintaining rhythmic precision
• Layering vocal lines to create textural complexity
• Maintaining energy and ensemble cohesion across repeated sections with variation
• Interpreting contemporary choral writing with appropriate style and articulation