Team: SATB Choral Octavo

Mac Huff's arrangement captures the intimate vulnerability of Lorde's original while opening it up for four-part voicing. The pop sensibility and modern harmonic language give your singers access to contemporary songwriting they actually want to perform, and the 13 pages allow enough substance to develop real ensemble musicality without overwhelming a mid-level choir.

Moody and reflective, with moments of lyrical beauty that draw listeners inward. The arrangement maintains Lorde's signature atmospheric quality while giving each voice part meaningful melodic and harmonic content.

Choirs looking to program contemporary music that resonates with student singers and modern audiences alike. This works for concert settings where you want to showcase your ensemble's versatility beyond traditional classical or show repertoire.

• Balance the vocal texture so that no single voice dominates the intimate sections; this arrangement thrives on blended tone rather than volume.
• Pay attention to rhythmic precision in syncopated passages; Lorde's stylistic fingerprint relies on the groove staying locked even when the melody plays against the beat.
• Shape phrases around emotional intent rather than melodic line alone; the lyrics drive the musical direction as much as the notes do.

Program this on a concert featuring modern composers and arrangers, pairing it with other contemporary pop or indie arrangements to create a cohesive set that speaks to your audience's musical world. It also serves as an excellent gateway piece for ensembles building confidence with non-traditional repertoire.

• Singing contemporary popular music with artistic intention
• Balancing individual voice parts within a blended ensemble texture
• Navigating syncopated rhythms and groove-based phrasing
• Connecting lyrics and emotional expression to musical choices