Something Beautiful (arr. Hans Kaldeway): TTTBB Choral Octavo

Hans Kaldeway's five-part voicing opens up real textural possibilities without sacrificing the song's emotional core. This arrangement rewards ensembles with solid blend and intonation skills, and the a cappella setting means no accompaniment to hide behind.

Intimate and introspective, with the richness of five-part harmony creating depth that a cappella arrangements can deliver so effectively. The stripped down setting asks listeners to hear the song's emotional architecture without distraction.

Intermediate to advanced mixed choirs ready to tackle a cappella textures with musical maturity. This works well for groups with enough singers to cover five distinct parts without strain.

• Establish the harmonic foundation first by securing the lower voices (basses and low tenors). Once that anchor is solid, the upper parts will sit naturally on top.
• Balance clarity with warmth by resisting the urge to oversing. This material thrives on restraint and conversational phrasing.
• Map out where each voice group carries the melody or a counter-melody. Kaldeway likely layers the tune across multiple voices, and identifying those moments prevents buried lines.
• Lock the rhythmic pulse early in rehearsal. Without instrumental support, rhythmic precision becomes your primary ensemble glue.

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements for a concert devoted to modern songwriting, or use it as an elegant contrast piece against traditional repertoire. The modest page count makes it accessible for spring concerts or chamber choir showcases.

• Five-part voice leading and harmonic awareness
• A cappella balance and blend without instrumental reference
• Sustained singing and breath control across longer phrases
• Intonation precision in close harmonies
• Interpretive musicality and emotional expression in contemporary material