The Man I Love: Choral SoundPax

Mark Hayes transforms this Gershwin standard into a showcase for treble ensemble writing that trusts singers with genuine harmonic complexity rather than reducing the song to its simplest form. The arrangement honors both the iconic melody and the lush vertical sonorities Gershwin himself favored, giving your choir a sophisticated pop standard that sounds like an event rather than a filler piece.

Wistful and romantic, with the kind of unhurried grace that lets each phrase breathe. Hayes's harmonies shimmer beneath a melody so naturally singable it feels effortless, creating moments of genuine beauty that reward both singers and listeners.

SSAA choirs with secure upper-range singers and the ability to balance four independent lines. This work suits advanced high school choirs, college treble ensembles, and community choirs seeking repertoire that feels both accessible and refined.

• Shape the opening verse carefully to build anticipation; treat the first statement of 'Someday he'll come along' as the emotional center of the piece rather than rushing toward the refrain.
• Balance the inner voice counterpoint in the harmonic sections by having singers connect their lines horizontally rather than just matching vertical sonorities.
• Let the recorded accompaniment anchor your ensemble's phrasing while your singers focus on the legit quality the arrangement requires; this is not a pop style with rhythmic drive but a ballad with sustained elegance.
• Experiment with dynamic peaks that fall on unexpected words rather than standard cadential moments to highlight Hayes's harmonic choices.

Pair this with other American standards to explore the evolution of popular song, or program it on a concert celebrating women's voices and the emotional depth they can convey. It works equally well as a concert centerpiece or as a sophisticated closer to a lighter first half.

• Sustaining legit vocal tone across a range with warm dynamics
• Singing independent harmonic lines while listening to three other parts
• Shaping a familiar melody with fresh phrasing and interpretive choice
• Balancing lyricism with the rhythmic precision a modern arrangement requires