Pure Imagination Sheet Music Preview

Pure Imagination: SATB Choral Octavo

From Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Words and music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley / arr. Mark Hayes

Item: 00-PO-0005690

Digital Download
$2.10

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

Description
Originally performed by Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, this inspirational ballad shimmers with the Mark Hayes touch. "Come with me, and you'll be in a world of pure imagination!"

Pure Imagination: SATB Choral Octavo isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.

Sample Audio
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 12
SKU: 00-PO-0005690

More about this title

About the Composer: Leslie Bricusse

Leslie Bricusse is a British songwriter and composer who shaped the sound of mid-century musical theater and film. His collaborations with Anthony Newley produced some of the most enduring melodies in popular music, including "Pure Imagination," which became an instant classic through Gene Wilder's iconic performance in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

Bricusse's gift for writing singable, emotionally direct melodies has made his work a staple in choral programs. His songs balance accessibility with genuine musical sophistication, creating pieces that engage both performers and audiences across generations.

Why we love this

Mark Hayes brings crystalline voicing and warmth to this beloved song, and the arrangement never overshadows the melody that audiences already love. The piece opens doors to meaningful conversations about imagination and wonder while remaining joyful and straightforward to teach.

What to expect

The piece radiates invitation and possibility. Hayes's treatment creates moments of luminous harmony that shimmer around the recognizable melody, giving singers the experience of adding color and depth to something listeners immediately cherish.

Who it's for

This arrangement works beautifully for choirs of all ages and experience levels who want to build a concert around uplifting, familiar music. Equally at home in a pop or show choir setting as it is in a traditional choral program, it engages audiences instantly while offering singers genuine musical satisfaction.

How to get the most out of it

  • Balance the inner voices carefully during the verses; the supporting harmonies should enhance rather than compete with the soaring top line.
  • Take advantage of the recorded accompaniment to lock ensemble blend, particularly where chords shift quickly.
  • Shape the phrase "Come with me" with the gentleness of an invitation rather than a command; this sets the tone for the entire piece.
  • In the final section, resist the urge to push tempo as emotion builds; let the harmonic movement carry the weight instead.

How to use it

Pair this with other aspirational or whimsical repertoire to create a concert suite about dreams and imagination. It also serves as an excellent opener or closer when you want to connect with audiences emotionally and leave them smiling.

Skills your students will build

  • Balancing melody with supporting harmonic lines
  • Maintaining legit vocal tone in a pop/theatrical context
  • Blending within and across voice parts using recorded accompaniment
  • Shaping lyrical phrases with intentionality and character

You May Also Like