I Have Written A Play: Piano Vocal

Coleman's theater songs work beautifully outside their original context because they stand on musical merit alone. This piece offers singers a chance to tackle sophisticated harmonic movement and character development without requiring a full production, making it ideal for recitals, competitions, or as a bridge piece between classic standards and contemporary musical theater.

Introspective and theatrical. The piece has the conversational intimacy of a character revealing something true about themselves, supported by piano writing that's both elegant and emotionally direct. There's vulnerability here, but also clarity of purpose.

Singers preparing for auditions or recitals who need material that showcases musical maturity and acting skill. This also works for students studying character-driven song interpretation and Broadway composition techniques.

• Establish the character's emotional arc before rehearsal begins. Coleman writes songs that shift dramatically; knowing where vulnerability turns to determination (or vice versa) will shape your interpretive choices.
• Honor the harmonic language. Coleman's chord progressions often contain unexpected voice leading and chromatic movement. Playing these accurately will reveal the emotional subtext Coleman built into the accompaniment.
• Balance legit theater technique with conversational storytelling. The piano part supports lyrical singing, so avoid oversinging; let the words land clearly while maintaining vocal line beauty.

Pair this with other character songs from the Great American Songbook or contemporary musical theater to build a recital that explores personality through music. It also serves as an excellent solo for singers in your musical theater ensemble who need a moment to step forward and demonstrate range.

• Interpreting character motivation from lyrics and harmonic content
• Managing sophisticated voice leading in the piano part while singing independently
• Sustaining legit vocal tone through dynamic and harmonic shifts
• Balancing theatrical storytelling with musical sophistication