Going Up (from A Man Of No Importance: A New Musical): Piano Vocal

This song captures the optimism and vulnerability that define the best Broadway character moments. The music supports the emotional arc beautifully, giving singers room to find genuine expression within a sophisticated harmonic framework that doesn't require belting or vocal pyrotechnics to land.

There's an earnest, almost tender quality to the music as it unfolds. The song radiates quiet determination mixed with genuine emotion, capturing a moment where possibility feels real and within reach.

This is ideal for developing singers working through contemporary musical theatre repertoire, particularly those building maturity in character interpretation and phrasing. It suits high school and college programs seeking something beyond overdone standards while remaining accessible to strong intermediate singers.

• Treat the piano part as a collaborator rather than accompaniment. The harmonic movement carries the emotional weight, so singers benefit from rehearsals where they listen to and respond to what the accompanist is playing.
• Find the through-line of hope in the melody without pushing the tempo. This song works best when it breathes naturally, allowing lyrical moments to land without rushing toward phrase endings.
• Balance legit soprano or tenor quality with conversational diction. The specificity of the lyrics matters as much as the vocal line, particularly in establishing character connection.

This works beautifully as a recital solo or as part of a musical theatre concert featuring contemporary composers. It pairs well with other character-driven contemporary songs in a showcase focused on storytelling, offering a different emotional flavor than comedic or belted material.

• Phrasing and breath placement in legit vocal style
• Connecting lyrical content to melodic shape
• Following harmonic movement and responding to pianistic textures
• Sustaining emotional authenticity through contemporary musical theatre writing