Here Comes The Sun (arr. Hazel Hannam): SSA Choral Octavo

Hazel Hannam's SSA arrangement opens this beloved song to choirs that may lack alto depth, making it accessible without sacrificing the warmth of the original. The arrangement respects the melody's iconic shape while creating genuine three-part writing that keeps all voices engaged throughout.

Optimistic and luminous, with the familiar melody wrapped in fresh harmonies that feel both unexpected and inevitable. The arrangement captures the song's meditative quality while creating moments where all three voices shine equally.

SSA choirs seeking repertoire that audiences recognize immediately, from middle school groups to community ensembles. Directors looking for accessible pop arrangements that don't compromise on musicianship will find genuine three-part writing that respects both the song and their singers.

• Establish the tempo as a gentle walking pulse rather than rushing; the song's peace comes from unhurried phrasing.
• Balance the melody line across sopranos so it doesn't feel delegated to one voice; this creates the collective warmth the arrangement deserves.
• Let the harmonic movement breathe in the middle section; clarity of chord quality matters more than blend here.
• Consider light dynamics to mirror the sunrise imagery; avoid staying at one volume level across all four pages.

Position this as a closing number for spring or graduation concerts where hope and brightness matter thematically. It pairs naturally with other pop arrangements or acoustic repertoire, and works equally well as a standalone feature or part of a larger set.

• Balancing melodic lines across multiple sopranos
• Sustaining tone through longer phrases at soft dynamics
• Understanding harmonic function in contemporary arrangements
• Blending three-part textures without sacrificing individual voice clarity
• Responding to nuanced tempo and dynamic shaping in familiar material