The Impossible Dream: TTBB Choral Octavo

Mark Hayes transforms this Broadway classic into a showcase for men's voices with rich harmonic writing that respects the song's emotional core while giving singers genuine musical substance. The arrangement sits comfortably across the TTBB voicing, avoiding the register strain that derails many male choir pieces, and the lush piano or orchestral accompaniment options let you shape the piece to your venue and resources.

Soaring and aspirational without sentimentality. The orchestration Hayes provides (or the lush piano writing as an alternative) creates an almost cinematic fullness that lifts the idealistic text beyond simple inspiration into genuine theatrical power. Singing this feels like advocating for something that matters.

TTBB choirs seeking repertoire that connects to a cultural touchstone while offering choral writing of real craft. This arrangement works equally well for high school and college ensembles, as well as men's touring groups and community choruses.

• Balance the melodic line across all four voices rather than concentrating it in the tenors; the inner harmonies carry substantial melodic interest and deserve audible definition.
• Use the recorded accompaniment for rehearsal to lock ensemble entries and refine synchronization with the piano or orchestral texture before removing it.
• Shape the dynamic arc gradually across the full phrase rather than making sudden shifts; this music rewards a conductor who builds tension through sustained crescendo.

This works beautifully as a concert closer or as part of a program pairing Broadway standards with art song or classical repertoire. Its accessibility to general audiences makes it effective for pops concerts, holiday shows, or benefit events where you want material that resonates without requiring musical sophistication from listeners.

• Balancing four independent harmonic lines while maintaining phrase coherence
• Singing through full dynamic ranges without sacrificing blend
• Interpreting Broadway music with theatrical intention while respecting choral ensemble sound
• Coordinating with piano or orchestral accompaniment in a theatre context