Try to Remember: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

This arrangement captures the essential charm of The Fantasticks' most iconic moment while giving choirs of any size an accessible entry into jazz waltz styling. The straightforward opening followed by the light jazz treatment keeps the piece engaging for singers while remaining immediately singable, and the included recorded accompaniment removes barriers to successful performance.

The opening unfolds with quiet nostalgia, a melody that feels as though it's recalling a cherished memory. When the jazz waltz emerges, the piece springs to life with a lighter touch, playful yet never trivial, creating an intimate moment of musical storytelling that audiences recognize and singers enjoy.

This octavo works for choirs ranging from middle school through adult community ensembles, as well as for performance groups seeking approachable yet sophisticated pop repertoire. Directors looking for a piece that bridges traditional and contemporary choral styles will find this particularly useful for mixed or treble choirs.

• Balance the elegance of the melodic statement in the first section by keeping the ensemble unified and unhurried; resist rushing even when the tempo feels familiar.
• In the jazz waltz section, lock into the triplet-based swing feel of the accompaniment early in rehearsal rather than fighting against it.
• Pay attention to the vertical alignment of voices where the arrangement thickens; jazz voicings only work when chords lock into place rhythmically.
• Use the recorded accompaniment in early rehearsals to establish the style shift between sections, then gradually reduce reliance on it so singers internalize the groove.

Pair this with other Theater Works arrangements for a Broadway-themed concert, or program it as a standalone showcase of your ensemble's ability to shift between lyrical and rhythmic sensibilities. Its moderate length and accessible style make it ideal for spring or pops concerts where you want familiar material that still demonstrates musical range.

• Singing in swing/waltz feel with triplet subdivisions
• Navigating jazz harmony and voice leading
• Maintaining legit tone through style transitions
• Following recorded accompaniment with precision
• Balancing ensemble blend across sectional voicing changes