Friend Like Me (from Aladdin) (arr. Mark Brymer): SATB Choral Octavo

Brymer captures the comedic swagger and rhythmic propulsion of the Genie without asking your choir to manage impossible ranges or overly complex rhythms. The arrangement keeps the ensemble locked into the groove while giving singers moments to shine individually, making it genuinely fun to rehearse and perform.

High-energy and irreverent, with the manic charm of a character trying to sell you something you didn't know you wanted. There's comedy in the rhythm and swagger in the voicing, creating a piece that bounces off the stage and pulls audiences into the Genie's world.

High school and community choirs looking for contemporary pops repertoire that entertains audiences without requiring technical vocal gymnastics. This works equally well for groups building confidence in rhythm-driven material or for directors seeking a crowd-pleasing show piece.

• Let the rhythm drive the piece. The Genie's personality lives in rhythmic precision and swagger, not in legit, sustained singing. Lean into the offbeat hits and syncopation.
• Balance the solo moments carefully. If you're using a featured soloist for Genie's lines, ensure the SATB sections support rather than compete when they come in.
• Keep diction crisp and conversational. This is a character singing, not a ballad. The text should feel spoken with music underneath it, especially in the patter sections.

Slot this into a pops concert as a closer or second-to-last piece where you want the audience engaged and laughing. It also works as a fun contrast in a mixed program or as an opener if you need to establish energy early.

• Reading syncopated rhythms in a contemporary pop idiom
• Maintaining rhythmic precision in ensemble while managing upbeat text
• Balancing solo and ensemble textures within a single piece
• Sustaining rhythmic independence when other sections carry opposing rhythmic ideas