Hidden Away (arr. John Purifoy): 2-Part Choral Octavo

This arrangement preserves the song's intimate, introspective quality while making it singable for developing choirs. John Purifoy's two-part voicing keeps the focus on the melody and text without overcomplicating the harmony, which means your singers can concentrate on shaping phrases and connecting emotionally to the story rather than managing vocal gymnastics.

The piece inhabits quiet introspection with moments of gentle lift. There's an understated quality to it, as if sharing something personal in a small room rather than projecting across a concert hall.

Middle and high school choirs ready to tackle contemporary material that demands musicality over technical display. It works equally well for community and church choirs seeking a modern song with emotional substance.

• Emphasize the legit tone quality over belting, even though the original carries pop sensibilities. The eight-page length suggests sustained singing where breath support and vowel consistency matter.
• Listen closely to Josh Groban's recording to understand the phrasing and rhythmic flexibility he uses. Notice where he holds back and where he pushes forward; those choices reveal the emotional arc.
• Balance blend between the two parts early in rehearsal so neither voice dominates. A 2-part arrangement lives or dies on harmonic transparency.

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements to show students that thoughtful, emotionally resonant writing exists outside classical repertoire. It also works beautifully in a program exploring themes of vulnerability or self-reflection, where its intimate nature becomes a strength rather than a limitation.

• Legit tone production and sustained vowel phrasing
• Harmonic listening in two-part writing
• Lyrical interpretation and emotional communication
• Flexibility in tempo and rubato based on text meaning