Shaina Taub is a composer and lyricist whose work spans Broadway, opera, and classical music. Her distinctive voice blends contemporary sensibility with strong melodic writing, earning her recognition across multiple theatrical genres. Taub's music for stage combines accessible storytelling with sophisticated harmonic language, making her compositions valuable for music educators seeking modern material with genuine artistic depth.
Why we love this
This song captures the wit and emotional vulnerability of Shakespeare's text through music that feels both theatrical and singable. The piano part carries the character's introspection without overwhelming the vocalist, making it accessible for performers still building their stylistic range while remaining rewarding for more advanced singers.
What to expect
Tender and self aware, with the quality of someone confessing feelings while maintaining enough emotional armor to make jokes. The music moves between intimate reflection and theatrical declaration, never settling into pure pathos.
Who it's for
Voice teachers working with intermediate to advanced students seeking contemporary art song material with literary substance. Concert choirs and musical theater programs building collections of shorter solo pieces with dramatic depth.
How to get the most out of it
Let the piano accompaniment breathe during sustained vocal lines; resist the urge to fill silence with continuous motion.
Balance lyrical vulnerability with the underlying humor of the text, treating the romantic declaration with a slight wink rather than unironic earnestness.
Pay attention to where Taub sets words for maximum emotional clarity; she writes accents and phrase shapes that clarify meaning when honored.
How to use it
Pair this with classical art song in a recital to demonstrate how contemporary composers approach similar emotional territory. It also works effectively as a solo moment in a larger Broadway showcase or as a teaching piece for understanding how literary text shapes musical phrasing.
Skills your students will build
Balancing legit singing with character interpretation in contemporary musical theater repertoire
Navigating the relationship between text and melody in newly composed song
Maintaining vocal line clarity through moderate accompaniment complexity
Finding humor and vulnerability simultaneously in performance
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
