I Lived (arr. Jacob Narverud): SSA Choral Octavo

Jacob Narverud's SSA setting captures the song's quiet resilience without sacrificing its emotional core. The arrangement works beautifully for mixed ability choirs because the part writing remains singable while the text about perseverance naturally engages singers and audiences alike.

Intimate and introspective, with moments of building confidence. The song carries a gentle strength that invites singers to connect authentically with the lyrics about survival and growth rather than performing them.

SSA and SSAA choirs looking for contemporary repertoire with genuine substance. This works equally well for high school and community ensembles seeking music that resonates emotionally without excessive technical demands.

• Shape the melody through phrase arcs rather than emphasizing individual words; this song breathes better when you find the larger architectural lines.
• Balance the voice parts carefully in unison sections so the unison line feels unified rather than stacked.
• Let silence do work for you. The song's reflective nature means strategic space between phrases creates impact.
• Record a rough pass with your altos and sopranos separated; it helps singers hear their specific part role before blending all three voices together.

Consider programming this as a solo feature or duet showcase piece in a concert focused on contemporary voices. It also pairs well thematically with other inspirational choral works and gives your program a moment of modern accessibility.

• Sustaining lyrical phrases across long melodic lines
• Balancing three independent voice parts in SSA texture
• Interpreting contemporary music with appropriate stylistic freedom
• Connecting emotional content to vocal expression