One: SATB Choral Octavo

Michael Hartigan's arrangement captures what makes this song endure: a melody that sits naturally in the voice and lyrics that resonate with choral singers. Pop and rock arrangements often fall flat in the ensemble setting, but this one respects both the choir's capabilities and the song's essential character. Your students will recognize the piece instantly, which means they arrive at rehearsal already emotionally invested.

The piece inhabits a quiet, introspective space. Rather than chasing the soaring vocal energy of the original recording, Hartigan's arrangement leans into the song's core meditation on human connection. Singers experience moments of gentle harmony that build gradually, creating the sense of multiple voices learning to move together, which is precisely what the lyrics describe.

This arrangement suits choirs with solid fundamentals in four-part harmony and enough vocal maturity to handle contemporary repertoire with sensitivity. It works equally well for high school and college ensembles, community choirs seeking accessible pop arrangements, and directors looking to program something their singers care about.

• Establish a clear, unhurried tempo. The arrangement benefits from space and breath; resist the urge to rush through phrases.
• Balance the harmony so the top line remains audible without asking sopranos to push hard. The beauty of the arrangement lives in its transparency.
• Pay attention to the emotional arc across all seven pages. This is not a throw-away pop tune; it's a song about connection and loss that demands genuine commitment from your singers.
• Work the accompaniment early. Even in a digital download, the recorded track (if provided) or piano part should be familiar to singers before you focus on blend and interpretation.

Consider pairing this with other contemporary or modern arrangements to create a program that speaks to student musicians and audiences alike. It also works as a powerful concert closer: seven pages moves quickly enough to maintain energy, and the emotional sincerity leaves the audience without the need for anything heavier to follow. Spring or fall concerts both suit this material well.

• Balancing SATB harmony in contemporary settings
• Sustaining long phrase lines without sacrificing musical shape
• Interpreting popular music with artistic intention rather than literal mimicry
• Blending dissonant intervals that resolve slowly
• Singing with vulnerability and emotional authenticity