If I Only Had a Brain (from Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Wizard of Oz"): Piano/Vocal/Chords

This collection captures both the timeless Arlen-Harburg classics and Webber's new material, giving singers and pianists a complete theatrical narrative in one volume. The piano arrangements support the vocal line generously while remaining playable at multiple skill levels, and the chord symbols make it accessible for guitarists and rhythm section players exploring music theatre repertoire.

A journey through the heart of beloved storytelling, from the sparse vulnerability of the Scarecrow's wish to the triumphant ensemble moments. The music moves between intimate character songs and sweeping theatrical spectacle, with Webber's additions adding lyrical depth and contemporary orchestral colors alongside Arlen's unforgettable melodies.

Singers preparing auditions or recitals featuring music theatre repertoire, pianists accompanying student or community productions, and guitarists learning to apply chord symbols in a theatrical context. This collection also serves teachers introducing students to how a classic film score transfers to the stage.

• Balance the melody with the accompaniment; these songs work best when the vocal line sits naturally on top of the piano texture rather than fighting against it.
• Use the chord symbols to experiment with different harmonic voicings on piano or guitar, especially in the Webber additions, which offer more contemporary harmonic colors than the original score.
• Pay attention to the lyrical phrasing over strict rhythmic precision. The emotional core of each song relies on storytelling through the words, so let the character's emotional arc shape your tempo and dynamics.
• Reference the cast recording to hear how rhythm and phrasing land in context; Webber's orchestrations are fuller than a solo voice plus piano, but the vocal approach transfers directly.

Program individual songs from this collection in a cabaret or recital showcasing music theatre standards and newer adaptations side by side. This book also serves as a complete resource for a full school or community production, offering both the classic score and Webber's extensions in one rehearsal source.

• Reading piano/vocal/guitar charts with chord symbols
• Balancing vocal phrasing against accompanimental rhythm
• Connecting harmonic choices to character emotion and storytelling
• Transposing and adapting songs to fit individual vocal ranges
• Understanding how theatrical music distributes melody, harmony, and rhythm across voice and instruments