The Journey: 2-Part Choral Octavo
Music by Tim Hayden and Patrice Villines / arr. Jay Althouse
Item: 00-PO-0004298
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
Pickup currently not available
Description
Help your students realize the importance of perseverance with this inspirational new power ballad for choirs of all ages. "It's in the little steps I take, where I become who I will be. It's in trying that I find the very best in me." A motivational text and a captivating musical setting. There won't be a dry eye in the house when your singers deliver the message that "the journey is worth it all." Perfect for graduation or any time of year.
The Journey: 2-Part Choral Octavo isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Request This Title
Tell us you want it.
Start Your Free Trial
Explore everything that's ready to play right now.
Sample Audio
1
Audio File
--:--
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0004298
More about this title
About the Composer: Tim Hayden
Tim Hayden began his music career after graduating from Reitz High School in Evansville, Indiana in 1975, eventually establishing himself as a composer, arranger, and producer based in Nashville, Tennessee. Over three decades, he has directed music for major theatrical productions at the Ryman Auditorium, including Bye Bye Love, Forever Patsy Cline, and Cotton Patch Gospel, while also working as a recording engineer and studio owner at Ned's Place Recording. His production credits span Opryland Hotel, multiple cruise lines, and theatrical venues across Tennessee, and his songwriting has been recorded by major-label artists.
Beyond his studio and theatrical work, Hayden has performed alongside established artists including Ricky Van Shelton, Earl Thomas Conley, and Jim Ed Brown on the Grand Ole Opry, and has appeared on national television programs including Grand Ole Opry Live and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He currently serves as choir director and music minister at LaVergne First United Methodist Church.
Why we love this
The lyrical message here moves singers and audiences alike because it speaks directly to the transformative power of persistence without ever feeling preachy. Hayden and Villines have crafted a contemporary power ballad with genuine emotional weight, and Jay Althouse's two-part setting makes it accessible for younger or less experienced choirs while preserving the song's inspirational impact. This piece delivers during graduation season, but its message about growth and self-discovery resonates powerfully at any point in the school year.
What to expect
A contemporary power ballad that builds from intimate, reflective verses into moments of swelling affirmation. The musical language feels modern and accessible, yet the harmonic setting gives singers room for genuine expression without requiring advanced technique.
Who it's for
This octavo works for middle school and high school choirs seeking contemporary material with genuine substance. It's equally valuable for younger singers building confidence in two-part writing and for mature ensembles looking for a centerpiece with mass appeal at graduation or spring concert programming.
How to get the most out of it
- Anchor the emotional arc in the text: work with your singers to understand the journey being described, then shape the musical phrases to support their storytelling rather than simply executing notes.
- The recorded accompaniment provides a secure harmonic foundation; use it in early rehearsals to establish confidence, then gradually encourage singers to carry their parts independently.
- Balance vulnerability with conviction in the delivery. This piece asks singers to commit emotionally to the message, so create rehearsal space where they feel safe exploring that honesty.
How to use it
Program this as a concert anchor or graduation finale where emotional resonance matters more than instrumental showmanship. The piece's inherent accessibility also makes it a strong choice for benefit concerts, community events, or spring performances where you want your singers to shine as storytellers.
Skills your students will build
- Sustaining longer phrases through text expression and breath management
- Blending two distinct vocal lines while maintaining individual part clarity
- Connecting emotional content to musical interpretation and phrasing decisions
- Building confidence in contemporary choral idiom and popular musical styles