That's What We'd Do: 2-Part Choral Octavo

The owl-dialogue concept feels fresh without being gimmicky; the exchanged "whoos" between sections create genuine musical interaction rather than mere novelty. Arrangers Dave and Jean Perry have crafted something that works equally well in a formal concert setting or a relaxed community performance, which is rare in 2-part repertoire at this level.

Imagine a cool autumn evening settling over a forest; the piece captures that intimate, slightly mysterious atmosphere through gentle melodic motion and the back-and-forth owl calls that create a sense of companionship and quiet contemplation. The "whoos" feel natural rather than theatrical, allowing singers and listeners alike to inhabit the nighttime world the music evokes.

This octavo works beautifully for middle school, high school, and community choirs comfortable with accessible yet artistic repertoire. It suits singers who respond to character and storytelling without needing complex harmonic or rhythmic demands, making it ideal for mixed-ability ensembles.

• Establish consistent vowel shapes on the "whoo" exchanges so they blend seamlessly when sections overlap; treat these as lyrical moments, not comedic interruptions.
• Balance the two parts so neither dominates during the back-and-forth passages; younger singers sometimes unconsciously defer to what they hear across the room.
• Experiment with slight rubato in the lilting sections to let the owl-companion imagery breathe naturally rather than forcing strict metronomic precision.
• Mark breath points clearly before rehearsal so singers commit to consistent phrasing and don't gasped mid-phrase during the dialogue sections.

Program this as a palette cleanser between heavier selections or as the centerpiece of a lighter, nature-themed concert set. Its charm and accessibility make it an excellent choice for family concerts, outdoor performances, or programs where you want to showcase your singers' ability to combine technical competence with genuine artistry.

• Blended vowel production on sustained "whoo" sounds
• Part independence and listening awareness during call-and-response passages
• Expressive phrasing and character interpretation in secular storytelling
• Breath management across lilting melodic lines