Together Wherever We Go: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Jay Althouse's arrangement captures the heart of this Gypsy anthem without sacrificing what makes Sondheim's writing special. The piece lands perfectly for mixed choirs who want something genuinely singable yet emotionally honest, and the recorded accompaniment gives conductors flexibility whether they're building to a full production or simply looking for a meaningful closer.

Warm, genuine, and unironic. The melody sits naturally in the voice; the harmony feels like a group making a promise to each other. There's no cynicism here, just honest affection expressed through music that's both accessible and crafted with care.

Mixed choirs at the intermediate to advanced level who want Broadway repertoire with real substance. This works for choirs with some rehearsal time and singers who can sustain blend and intonation through Sondheim's harmonic language.

• Let the text drive the phrasing. Sondheim's lyrics are conversational, so treat them as dialogue between friends rather than formal vocal lines; the natural speech patterns will guide your tempo and breath placement.
• Balance transparency with warmth in the harmony. These chords should feel like a group of people singing together, not a wall of sound; use dynamic shaping to keep inner voices audible.
• Embrace the staging suggestions included with the octavo. Even simple movement or formation changes can transform this from a standing concert piece into something that visibly embodies the friendship theme.

Perfect as a spring or end-of-year concert finale, especially paired with lighter fare earlier in the program. The message about friendship and togetherness also works beautifully in honor concerts or as a signature piece for a choir class celebrating the year's work together.

• Singing Sondheim's sophisticated harmonic language and unexpected chord progressions
• Interpreting text with theatrical awareness while maintaining choral blend
• Coordinating movement and staging with vocal production
• Sustaining musical line through dialogue-like phrasing and natural speech rhythms