I Decide: Piano/Vocal/Chords

This arrangement gives students and singers a straightforward entry into contemporary pop repertoire with clear vocal melody and harmonic structure. The piano part provides both accompaniment support and opportunities for students to understand chord-based songwriting at the keyboard.

The piece carries the accessible, forward-moving energy of modern pop, with straightforward harmonic language that sits comfortably under the voice. The piano and vocal parts work together to create an intimate yet confident performance style typical of contemporary singer-songwriter arrangements.

Piano and voice students interested in contemporary pop repertoire, whether for solo recital, studio work, or collaborative performance. Singers at the intermediate level and above can use this arrangement to develop expressive phrasing within a familiar pop idiom.

• Balance the vocal line so it sits naturally above the piano accompaniment without requiring excessive projection.
• Use the chord symbols to explore different voicings and comping patterns at the keyboard, especially in the verse sections.
• Pay attention to rhythmic precision between vocal phrasing and the piano's harmonic rhythm to maintain groove and pocket.
• Consider the energy arc of the song when choosing tempo; maintain consistency between a vocalist and pianist working together.

Include this on a recital featuring contemporary or pop-influenced repertoire, or pair it with classical and standards to showcase a student's range across musical styles. It works equally well as a standalone performance piece or as part of a broader program exploring 21st-century pop songwriting.

• Reading and interpreting chord symbols in pop/contemporary contexts
• Coordinating vocal phrasing with piano accompaniment
• Exploring contemporary pop vocal style and expression
• Understanding harmonic structure in modern songwriting