Standards for Two: Vocal Book

Sophisticated without being pretentious. These are songs built on clever lyrics, easy melodic lines, and the natural rhythm of conversation. Singing them feels like performing a scene rather than just executing notes.

Any vocal program needing accessible, audience-friendly duet material. This collection works for recitals, competitions, concert programs, or ensemble classes where singers need experience balancing harmony and melody in a partner context.

• Balance the melody between singers as it trades back and forth. One voice should never disappear into the accompaniment, even when singing harmony.
• Coordinate your phrasing and breath points beforehand. Two voices singing in unison or harmony expose every timing inconsistency, so rehearse these details deliberately.
• If using the orchestrated accompaniment, rehearse with piano first to lock the vocal line, then move to the CD to hear how your voices sit within the fuller arrangement.
• Pay attention to the comedic or romantic intent of each lyric. Standards rely on nuance and character, not just correct notes.

Program one or two of these as intermission music or as part of a larger vocal showcase. They're light enough to open a concert but polished enough to hold their own alongside more serious art song. A pair of singers performing multiple duets from this collection could make an engaging short recital.

• Blending voices in close harmony
• Trading melody and accompaniment lines with a partner
• Maintaining ensemble integrity while serving character and text
• Phrasing across a partner's voice rather than singing in isolation
• Interpreting jazz and American songbook idioms
• Adapting interpretation based on voice pairing options