The Ballad Of The Witches' Road (from Agatha All Along) (arr. Roger Emerson): SSA Choral Octavo

Emerson captures the incantatory, minor-key mystique of the original while crafting an arrangement that sits comfortably for SSA voices. The piece gives students a chance to perform contemporary material that genuinely excites them, which means rehearsals feel purposeful rather than obligatory.

Dark and modern with an almost hypnotic quality. The minor tonality and repetitive textural elements create an incantatory mood that feels theatrical without being over the top, giving singers the chance to sink into something genuinely atmospheric.

Any SSA or SSAA choir looking to add accessible contemporary material to their set. This works for groups ranging from community choirs to high school ensembles, especially those seeking repertoire that resonates with younger singers.

• Establish the underlying pulse early in rehearsals; the rhythmic forward momentum keeps this witchy tune from feeling precious or oversinging.
• Balance the soprano and alto lines so neither one disappears into the texture. The witchy effect depends on clarity across both parts.
• Record a section rehearsal of the harmonies alone before adding the text so singers lock the intervals without relying on lyrics for security.

This fits naturally into a concert celebrating film and television music, or as a standalone piece in a set exploring contemporary choral writing. It also works as a crowd pleaser midway through a program where you want to energize the audience with something they recognize.

• Singing in minor keys with secure intonation across multiple voice parts
• Maintaining rhythmic clarity in contemporary choral textures
• Balancing soprano and alto lines for blended ensemble sound
• Interpreting character and mood in music based on harmonic color