Opening Up (from Waitress The Musical) (arr. Mac Huff): SSA Choral Octavo

Mac Huff's arrangement captures the quiet vulnerability of this song while making it accessible for developing singers. The SSA voicing sits comfortably for high school and community choirs, and the Broadway context gives students repertoire they actually recognize and want to sing.

The song carries the quiet intensity of someone finding courage in vulnerability. It's introspective without being melancholy, offering singers a chance to dig into genuine emotion and connection rather than external showiness.

SSA and SSAA choirs looking for contemporary Broadway repertoire with emotional substance. Works well for high school and community ensembles seeking material that resonates with singers and audiences alike.

• Shape the melody with intentional phrasing rather than pushing for volume; this song lives in restraint and emotional clarity.
• Balance the parts carefully so the lyrics remain the focus throughout. Accompaniment and harmonies should support, not compete.
• Pay attention to breath placement in longer phrases to maintain legit tone and textual clarity.
• Consider how dynamics shift across the 18 pages; map out your arc early so singers understand the emotional journey.

Program this as a feature moment in a pops concert or a contemporary music set. It pairs naturally with other Bareilles material or modern Broadway arrangements, and the accessible voicing makes it suitable for both large ensemble performances and smaller showcase concerts.

• Sustaining lyrical tone across extended phrases
• Balancing part independence with ensemble blend
• Interpreting contemporary song text with intention
• Working with Broadway repertoire and theatrical phrasing