Starting Here, Starting Now: SATB Choral Octavo

John Leavitt's arrangement respects the Broadway roots of this love song while making it genuinely singable for mixed choirs of varying sizes and experience levels. The piano part carries real musical weight without overwhelming the voices, and the piece lands with emotional impact exactly when you need it for a graduation or end-of-year concert.

Warm and intimate, with the quality of a conversation between two people rather than a grand statement. The harmonic language is contemporary enough to feel fresh, yet grounded in melody; it's the kind of song that sits naturally in singers' voices and doesn't require them to strain for emotional authenticity.

This octavo works for treble-heavy choirs, balanced mixed ensembles, jazz and pop choirs, and everything in between. Whether you're directing a large concert choir or a smaller specialized group, the straightforward voicing and flexible accompaniment make it accessible without sacrificing musical substance.

• Balance the choir's sustained lines against the piano accompaniment by allowing the keyboard to breathe on its own during introductory and transitional passages. This prevents the voices from pushing.
• Shape the phrase peaks with careful dynamic control rather than sudden volume changes. These melodies reward a long line and gradual swell.
• If using recorded accompaniment, listen as an ensemble during rehearsal to lock the phrasing and timing before performing live with piano.

This is an ideal standalone moment in a graduation or end-of-year concert, especially when paired with a more energetic opening number or rousing closing piece. The sentiment and simplicity also make it a strong choice for spring concerts or ceremonies where you want to acknowledge transition and new beginnings without heavy nostalgia.

• Sustaining lyrical lines with consistent legit tone
• Balancing ensemble blend while maintaining individual voice independence
• Interpreting emotional content in secular contemporary song
• Responding to and following piano accompaniment as an equal musical partner