For All We Know: SATB Choral Octavo

Peter Eldridge and Darmon Meader have transformed this standard into a contemporary choral vehicle that respects the original's elegance while opening it up for ensemble voices. The piano writing is genuinely inventive—rich enough to sustain interest on its own while supporting sophisticated vocal textures that reward both the singers and the listeners.

The piece carries an intimate, conversational quality despite its complexity. There's a wistfulness to the melody paired with the modern harmonic language of the arrangement, creating a sound that feels both timeless and freshly imagined.

This arrangement speaks to accomplished choirs seeking a contemporary take on a beloved standard. Your ensemble will need secure intonation, rhythmic precision, and comfort with jazz harmonies to execute the sophisticated voicing effectively.

• Balance the ensemble so the text remains clear; the contemporary voicing can obscure words if any section dominates.
• Listen closely to how the New York Voices recorded this on "A Day Like This"—their phrasing and rhythmic approach offer concrete guidance for interpretation.
• Allow the piano part its own personality. This accompaniment deserves rehearsal time separate from the choir so both elements can shine independently before locking together.
• Shape the dynamics phrase by phrase rather than section by section; jazz-influenced arrangements reward nuance in individual lines.

This works beautifully in a concert devoted to American standards or as a bridge between classical and contemporary pop repertoire. Its musicianship demands and sophisticated sound make it an excellent closer for a choral set where you want to leave audiences with something substantial and polished.

• Reading jazz harmonies and contemporary chord progressions
• Balancing multiple melodic lines in close harmonies
• Interpreting phrase shape and dynamic nuance in arranged repertoire
• Coordinating ensemble attacks and releases with piano accompaniment