Ripple (from Spirited) (arr. Mark Brymer): Choral Instrumental Pak

Brymer captures the emotional arc of this Pasek and Paul composition without overselling it. The arrangement builds thoughtfully from a quiet beginning to something fuller and more assured, which means your singers actually have room to grow into the song rather than starting at maximum volume. It's the kind of piece that feels good to perform and lands with genuine warmth in a holiday concert.

The piece carries an understated confidence. It begins quietly, almost as a suggestion, then gradually accumulates warmth and conviction without becoming bombastic. There's a sense of inevitability to its growth, like a small gesture that turns into something significant.

This works for mixed or treble ensembles at intermediate level and above. Holiday programs often lean toward reverent or comedic options, so an uplifting contemporary piece with this kind of genuine optimism fills a real programming need.

• Resist pushing the opening too hard. Let the initial vulnerability shine so the growth toward the end feels earned and meaningful.
• Pay attention to the instrumental voicing that Brymer provides. The interplay between choir and instruments creates the 'ripple' effect, so clarity in those transitions matters.
• Consider the pacing of the dynamic arc across the entire piece. Many directors rush the build; giving yourself room to expand gradually keeps listeners engaged.

Pair this with traditional holiday repertoire to show range in your concert programming. It works particularly well as a closer or in a set that bridges familiar holiday music with contemporary material. The optimistic message also makes it a fitting choice for holiday concerts that emphasize community impact or social themes.

• Controlling dynamic growth over an extended musical phrase
• Balancing choral blend with instrumental accompaniment
• Sustaining legit singing through a build in intensity
• Responding to contemporary musical language and phrasing