Music in My Soul: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Buoyant and infectious. The accented groove and plentiful rhymes create instant forward momentum, while the lyrical celebration of the artist within each person generates genuine warmth alongside the rock edge. Singers feel both empowered and part of something joyful when performing this piece.

Choirs of any level seeking contemporary repertoire that energizes singers without requiring advanced technique. The accessible pop-rock idiom and clear message work equally well for middle school, high school, and community ensembles looking to program something current and engaging.

• Lock the rhythmic groove with your rhythm section and singers together during early rehearsals; the accented figures drive the whole piece, so precision here shapes everything else.
• Shape the solo passages as true moments of individual expression rather than ornamental fills. Encourage singers to own their lines vocally and rhythmically.
• Balance the recorded accompaniment level so it supports without overwhelming; singers should hear themselves clearly within the groove.
• Use the energy and optimism built into the harmonic movement and lyrical content as rehearsal motivation; this material practically teaches itself when singers connect to its celebratory message.

Schedule this for a concert where you want to shift energy and show your singers' contemporary musicianship. It pairs well alongside art song or traditional repertoire as a statement of balance, or cluster it with other pop-rock originals for a fully modern set that connects with audiences and performers alike.

• Performing rhythmic grooves with consistent accent placement
• Balancing individual solo lines within ensemble texture
• Interpreting and executing contemporary pop-rock phrasing
• Singing with conviction in accessible, lyric-driven material