Trying Too Hard (from Central Park) (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the intimacy of the original duet while making it accessible to young ensembles. The 2-part voicing preserves the emotional vulnerability of the song without demanding advanced vocal technique, making it perfect for choirs looking to program something contemporary and genuinely moving.

Tender and self-aware, with a touch of wry humor underneath the sincerity. The song captures the moment of connection between two people who are trying not to mess it up, making space for both the comedy and the genuine care in the relationship.

Middle school and high school choirs seeking contemporary pop repertoire with emotional depth. This works well for ensembles ready to move beyond novelty pop arrangements and into song-driven storytelling that respects the intelligence of young singers.

• Keep the tone conversational and intimate even in full ensemble; resist the urge to belt or oversell the vulnerability of the text.
• Balance Part 1 and Part 2 so neither voice dominates; this duet lives in the space between the singers, not in one part overpowering the other.
• Shape phrases with the natural pacing of speech rather than hitting every beat with equal weight. Let the words breathe.

Pair this with other contemporary musical theater selections to create a themed concert, or place it as a standalone moment of contrast in a program weighted toward classical or jazz standards. It works especially well as a bridge piece for audiences who might not expect a concert choir to perform something this current.

• Singing with a pop-inflected legit style while maintaining choral blend
• Interpreting conversational phrasing in a choral context
• Balancing duet relationships within ensemble voicing
• Connecting emotionally to contemporary songwriting