Square Root Of Possible (from Jingle Jangle) (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's two-part arrangement opens this inspirational film song to younger singers while preserving its emotional core. The simplicity of the voicing means your singers can focus on conveying the song's message of resilience and hope, which lands powerfully even without harmonic complexity. It fits naturally into winter concerts, holiday programs, or any time you need a contemporary piece with genuine heart.

Optimistic and grounded. The song carries the warmth of a duet between friends, with a melody that sits comfortably in the voice while maintaining an introspective quality. There's joy here, but it's earned and purposeful rather than frivolous, making the emotional payoff feel genuine.

This arrangement serves middle school and early high school choirs looking for contemporary repertoire with mainstream appeal. It works equally well for community ensembles, children's choirs stepping into longer forms, or any group seeking a piece that connects to popular culture without sacrificing musicality.

• Establish the song's conversational tone by treating the melody as speech-like phrasing rather than operatic legit. This keeps the energy accessible and age-appropriate.
• Balance the two parts so neither overshadows the moment. These voices work best when they're equally confident, creating a sense of partnership in the song's message.
• Let the arrangement breathe during sustained moments. Resist pushing the tempo; the lyrical quality depends on unhurried delivery.
• Use dynamic contrast between verses and the emotional peak to avoid a monochromatic performance. A small crescendo in the final section pays off the arc.

This works beautifully as a centerpiece in a winter or holiday concert, especially when programmed alongside other contemporary or film repertoire. Its modest demands make it an excellent choice for a mid-program moment that shifts tone without demanding a full ensemble reset. Consider pairing it with your group's instrumental ensemble for added depth.

• Singing in two-part harmony with clear voice independence
• Interpreting contemporary melodic language and phrasing
• Connecting lyrical content to emotional expression and storytelling
• Balance and blend across contrasting register placement
• Sustained legit singing without tension or forcing