Morning Glow: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

This selection brings genuine theatrical energy into the choral classroom without demanding advanced vocal technique. Eric Van Cleave's arrangement captures Schwartz's signature optimism while keeping the piece engaging for singers and audiences alike, making it a reliable choice for concerts that need a mood lift.

Warmth and gentle affirmation. The piece glows with hope without veering into sentimentality, using clean harmonies and a forward-moving melody that feels both contemporary and timeless. It has the intimacy of a moment shared between friends at sunrise.

Choirs seeking accessible yet theatrical pop repertoire that works for school, community, and church ensembles. The recorded accompaniment makes it practical for groups without a trained accompanist, while the octavo format and optional instrumental parts allow flexibility in performance.

• Shape the phrase "Morning glow is here at last" with a natural crescendo that peaks on "here," then softens into the resolution. This arc gives the opening its emotional lift without forcing it.
• Balance the melody between sections carefully; the accompaniment recording can overpower quieter moments if not monitored during rehearsal.
• Emphasize vowel consistency across all voice parts to keep the texture cohesive when multiple parts move together.

Program this early in a concert to set an uplifting tone, or use it as a bridge between more demanding choral works. Its theatrical origins make it especially effective alongside other pop or Broadway selections, and its message of renewal works well in spring concerts or end-of-year celebrations.

• Blending pop vocal production with choral blend
• Phrasing and breath control in contemporary melodic writing
• Listening to and balancing with recorded accompaniment
• Sustaining lyrical quality in accessible, singable music