I Lived (arr. Deke Sharon): SSA Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures the heartfelt sincerity of the original without sacrificing the contemporary pop sensibility that makes this song resonate with singers. The SSA voicing opens this meaningful text to a wider range of ensemble sizes and voices, while the a cappella setting forces singers to engage with harmony, balance, and phrase shaping in ways that recorded versions never demand.

The piece carries an almost conversational warmth, with moments of vulnerability that ask singers to be genuinely present rather than merely performing. There's an intimacy to a cappella singing that suits the reflective nature of this text, creating spaces where emotion can live without instrumental accompaniment to mask it.

SSA choirs at the middle school, high school, and collegiate recreational levels will find this accessible and engaging. Directors seeking contemporary repertoire that appeals to singers without compromising musicianship will appreciate both the song choice and Sharon's craftsmanship.

• Shape the melodic line with purposeful dynamics rather than singing at a constant volume; the lyrics deserve the same attention you'd give to art song.
• Lock the harmonic foundation in the lower voices first before layering the top line, ensuring the chords sit solidly beneath the melody.
• Find the natural breath points within longer phrases and mark them clearly so singers don't force breathing where it will damage the arc.

This works beautifully as a poignant moment in a concert built around modern pop repertoire, or as a closing number that leaves the audience with something to sit with. Its 14-page length makes it substantial enough to anchor a set without dominating a program.

• Blending vowels across register changes in four-part and three-part writing
• Maintaining intonation in a cappella contexts without instrumental reference
• Shaping long melodic phrases with strategic dynamic choices
• Balancing transparency in homophonic texture against emotional expression