I Still Have Faith In You (arr. Mac Huff): SAB Choral Octavo

Mac Huff's arrangement captures the emotional depth of this ABBA classic while keeping the SAB voicing singable across varying ability levels. The piece gives your choir access to a universally recognized song with genuine harmonic substance rather than a simplified novelty arrangement. Programming a pop standard this well-crafted signals to your audience that contemporary repertoire can be just as musically rewarding as traditional choral fare.

Introspective and earnest, with moments of warmth that build gradually. The arrangement preserves ABBA's signature sophistication without requiring vocal gymnastics, landing instead on emotional honesty that resonates across age groups and skill levels.

Choirs seeking contemporary pop literature that offers genuine musical substance and doesn't talk down to singers or audiences. Works equally well for concert choirs wanting to program something accessible and for pop-focused ensembles wanting an arrangement by a trusted arranger.

• Balance the melody between soprano and alto lines during the verse; neither voice should dominate, even though the soprano carries the primary tune. This blend creates the warmth ABBA's original recording achieves.
• Shape the dynamic arch across the entire form rather than treating each phrase as isolated. Build gradually from verse through pre-chorus and let the chorus breathe at its fullest before pulling back.
• Attend closely to vowel consistency in the harmony sections, particularly where the alto and baritone lines move independent of the soprano. This clarity prevents the arrangement from muddying in the middle register.
• Record a rough rehearsal mix and listen as an ensemble. Hearing yourself as a choir (rather than as individual singers) reveals balance issues the ensemble can't perceive from inside the sound.

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements to build a full concert section, or use it as a bridge piece connecting classical and modern repertoire. The emotional restraint makes it work as an encore or in a program exploring faith, resilience, or personal reflection.

• Balancing melody against independent harmony lines
• Managing dynamic shape across extended phrases
• Maintaining vowel consistency in three-part voicing
• Singing contemporary music with interpretive maturity
• Blend and intonation in pop idiom arranging