Jar Of Hearts (adapted by Mark Brymer): SSA Choral Octavo

Intimate and introspective, with moments of building intensity that never become bombastic. The arrangement lets vulnerability sit front and center, making this as much about what's left unsaid as what's sung.

SSA or SSAA choirs looking to program contemporary material that connects with student singers and audiences alike. This works for upper middle school through adult choirs seeking a pop arrangement with genuine emotional weight.

• Resist the urge to push the tempo. This song breathes on restraint; dynamics speak louder than speed.
• Balance the alto line carefully in the verses. It often sits lower and can disappear if not given clear cue preparation.
• Pay attention to where the arrangement doubles voices versus splits them. These moments create texture and should feel intentional, not accidental.

Pair this with other contemporary vocal arrangements in a concert focused on storytelling through modern song. It also serves as an excellent selection for spring or winter concerts when audiences respond to reflective material that builds to a meaningful climax.

• Phrasing and breath placement in contemporary vocal music
• Dynamic control across extended passages
• Blend and balance between soprano and alto lines
• Emotional interpretation of popular song material
• Sustaining legit tone while maintaining conversational text delivery