Light: SAB Choral Octavo
From Next to Normal
Lyrics by Brian Yorkey, music by Tom Kitt / arr. Lisa DeSpain
Item: 00-PO-0005700
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
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More about this title
About the Composer: Tom Kitt
Tom Kitt is a Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist whose work spans musical theater, orchestral composition, and concert music. He co-created Next to Normal with Brian Yorkey, a groundbreaking musical that earned him the Tony for Best Original Score in 2009 and established him as a major voice in contemporary theater. Beyond Broadway, Kitt has composed for film and television, and his concert works have been performed by orchestras worldwide.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures the emotional core of Next to Normal while fitting perfectly into a mixed-voice choral setting. The piece delivers genuine theatrical impact without requiring a full pit orchestra, making it an accessible way to program contemporary Broadway music that resonates with student singers and audiences alike.
What to expect
Light builds emotional intensity through layered harmonies and soaring melodic lines, creating moments of vulnerability alongside moments of genuine climactic power. The song balances intimate lyricism with the expansive, contemporary sound of modern musical theater, giving singers the chance to explore both restraint and emotional release.
Who it's for
This arrangement works for intermediate to advanced SAB choirs seeking contemporary Broadway repertoire with dramatic substance. Directors looking to program a powerful solo moment within a larger concert will find this piece offers both theatrical impact and musical depth without overwhelming younger or less experienced singers.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the vocal line through the lyrics rather than forcing volume; the emotional truth of the text carries the song's power more effectively than pure belting.
- Balance the three parts so the melody remains clear while supporting voices create rich harmonic texture and forward momentum.
- Use the recorded accompaniment to establish the harmonic foundation and allow singers to focus on unified phrasing and emotional delivery.
How to use it
Program this as a concert centerpiece or closer on a show devoted to contemporary theater music, or pair it with other modern Broadway selections for a second act that showcases current musical storytelling. Its 16-page score and emotional weight make it an ideal choice for a featured ensemble moment in a concert that includes both traditional and modern repertoire.
Skills your students will build
- Phrasing and text interpretation in contemporary musical theater style
- Balance and blend in three-part mixed voicing
- Sustained vocal control through extended phrases
- Emotional expression and dramatic commitment