I Won't Give Up (arr. Hans Reintjes): SSAA Choral Octavo

Hans Reintjes has crafted an arrangement that lets the song's central message shine without sacrificing the warmth of Mraz's original. The writing sits comfortably in a mixed choir range while maintaining enough harmonic interest to keep singers engaged through multiple verses.

Warm, encouraging, and grounded in genuine sincerity. The arrangement honors the intimacy of Mraz's original while giving the ensemble space to own the message of resilience and commitment that defines the song.

Choirs seeking contemporary repertoire with positive messaging and straightforward part writing will find this arrangement accessible and effective. Directors looking for a piece that resonates with younger singers and general audiences benefit from the song's cultural familiarity.

• Balance the melody between sopranos and altos to preserve clarity; this arrangement works best when neither section dominates the line.
• Keep the tempo conversational and unhurried. The lyrical content asks for space, so resist the urge to push the pace.
• Shape phrases toward moments of harmonic change rather than barline to barline; this keeps the emotional arc moving forward.
• Layer in the accompaniment gradually during rehearsals. Start with voices alone to establish secure parts, then add recorded track to check blend and intonation.

Program this as a centerpiece for a concert celebrating contemporary music or as a strong closer for a lighter spring or summer concert. It works equally well in a program exploring themes of hope and perseverance.

• Managing blend across multiple voice parts in pop-influenced harmonies
• Sustaining legit phrasing while singing to recorded accompaniment
• Interpreting stylistic nuance in contemporary choral writing
• Building confidence with accessible, culturally relevant repertoire