Olivia Rodrigo emerged as a major voice in pop music with her 2021 debut album SOUR, which showcased her gift for writing deeply personal songs that resonate across generations. Her ability to craft emotionally charged narratives paired with memorable melodies has made her work a natural fit for choral arrangements, where her songwriting clarity translates into engaging material for singers of all levels.
Why we love this
Mark Brymer's arrangement captures the raw emotional core of this breakout hit while making it accessible for choral settings. The piece works equally well as a concert centerpiece or as a bridge between classical and contemporary programming, giving your singers repertoire that feels genuinely current and speaks to their musical world.
What to expect
Intimate yet propulsive. The arrangement captures the vulnerability of the original while maintaining forward momentum, creating space for both introspective verses and moments of real release. There's a sophistication to how the accompaniment supports the vocal line without overwhelming it.
Who it's for
Choirs looking to program contemporary pop music that doesn't sacrifice musicality or arranging craft. This works for intermediate to advanced ensembles and gives young singers a chance to perform material from their actual musical world.
How to get the most out of it
Balance the vocal line to ensure the lyrical storytelling cuts through the instrumental accompaniment; this song lives or dies by its emotional delivery.
Let the rhythm section establish a solid pocket before bringing in the full ensemble; the groove is what anchors this arrangement.
Shape the dynamic arch throughout to avoid a static middle section; small crescendos and pull-backs maintain listener engagement across the full duration.
How to use it
Pair this with other contemporary arrangements in a concert focused on modern songwriting, or use it as a standalone emotional centerpiece that showcases your ensemble's range beyond traditional repertoire. It also works effectively as a concert closer, sending the audience out with a song they actually know.
Skills your students will build
Singing contemporary pop phrasing with rhythmic precision
Balancing emotional expression with technical accuracy
Ensemble blend across different vocal ranges in a modern context
Working with recorded accompaniment and click tracks
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