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Light: SATB Choral Octavo

Words and music by Lisa Loeb and Cliff Goldmacher / arr. Andy Beck

Item: 00-PO-0006055

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Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

Description
A folk-infused ballad celebrating the miracle of Hanukkah. Originally recorded by 90s pop sensation Lisa Loeb, this reflective change-of-pace choral features a rhythmic yet mellow accompaniment and straightforward but expressive vocal parts. Whether you perform with the guitar-inspired piano part, the optional SoundTrax CD, or a folk ensemble of your own, this is truly a special touch for holiday concerts.

"Because of changes in our school's schedule and the taking away of the music requirement in 7th and 8th grade, our choir numbers have dropped significantly. Searching for music that has educational value and that the choir will sound good on (we know that's important for the parents and faculty) I came across Light arranged by Andy Beck. This quickly became a favorite of my choir! The kids are excited to rehearse it every day and the sound they are achieving fits the "folk-like" feel of the piece.

We are using the 2-Part version. Being 7th and 8th graders, of my nine boys, three are unchanged voices (singing alto as written) and my other six are in varying stages of voice change. Those six are bouncing back and forth between alto and soprano parts, singing them down an octave.

Thank you for providing a great piece for the holiday season!"

Matt Albrecht
Choir Director
Copley-Fairlawn Middle School

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 12
SKU: 00-PO-0006055

More about this title

About the Composer: Lisa Loeb

Lisa Loeb burst onto the 1990s music scene with her distinctive alto voice and introspective songwriting, becoming one of the decade's most recognizable pop artists. Her ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies with folk and pop sensibilities has made her catalog rich material for choral adaptation, and "Light" exemplifies how her compositional approach translates beautifully to ensemble singing.

Why we love this

Andy Beck's arrangement strips away unnecessary complexity while preserving the song's reflective warmth, giving choirs at all levels a piece that sounds mature and moving without punishing preparation schedules. The folk-inflected harmonic language and the optional guitar-inspired piano accompaniment create a distinct identity on holiday concerts, setting it apart from more conventional seasonal fare. Singers genuinely enjoy rehearsing it, which speaks volumes when recruiting struggling numbers.

What to expect

A quiet moment of reflection wrapped in folk warmth. The mellow accompaniment and expressive vocal lines create an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into contemplation rather than celebration, yet the piece radiates quiet hope throughout.

Who it's for

Middle and high school choirs looking for accessible yet artistically rewarding repertoire that engages singers and audiences alike. The straightforward vocal writing welcomes evolving voices and smaller ensembles while the emotional content appeals to mature musicianship.

How to get the most out of it

  • Balance the rhythmic accompaniment so the piano sits behind the vocal line rather than competing with it; the guitar-inspired voicing works best when felt rather than heard.
  • Shape phrases through the text rather than relying on dynamic markings alone; the reflective nature asks singers to connect emotionally with each phrase's meaning.
  • If using the SoundTrax accompaniment, rehearse with it early so singers can lock into the folk rhythm without rushing or dragging.
  • In transitions between sections, maintain the song's contemplative mood through controlled breathing and minimal articulation shifts.

How to use it

Position this as a change-of-pace piece in a holiday concert, pairing it with more energetic seasonal selections to give audiences breathing room. Its reflective character makes it ideal for a concert's second half, where it can anchor a thematic arc around light and meaning during winter months.

Skills your students will build

  • Phrasing with text expression in folk-influenced material
  • Balancing ensemble blend in a rhythmically driven accompaniment
  • Sustaining a contemplative vocal quality across longer phrases
  • Listening to and responding to guitar-inspired harmonic movement

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