Way Back Into Love (from "Music and Lyrics"): Piano/Vocal/Chords

This collection captures the infectious pop sensibility of a major studio film in a format that's immediately playable for vocalists and pianists. The songs sit comfortably for contemporary voices, and the chord charts make the arrangements accessible without sacrificing the polish of the original recordings. Programming this material adds modern, film-familiar repertoire to a recital or cabaret that audiences actually want to hear.

These songs carry the warmth and accessibility of contemporary pop while maintaining the structural clarity of written songs with purpose. The melodies are memorable and sit naturally in the voice, and the harmonic language feels modern and relatable without requiring extreme vocal range or pianistic virtuosity.

Vocalists preparing contemporary solo repertoire and pianists looking for engaging, modern material that bridges musical theater and pop. This collection works well for advanced student singers, community theater performers, and anyone building a recital program that includes film and television music.

• Pay close attention to the rhythm section feel in the chord voicings; these songs rely on groove and pocket as much as melody, so commit to the rhythmic character suggested by the accompaniment patterns
• Adjust the vocal range to suit your instrument or voice type before you begin; the songs are written in keys that worked for the film's performers, but transposition is straightforward and often necessary
• Let the lyrics drive your phrasing and emotional choices; Schlesinger's melodies are character-driven, and the emotional arc of each song becomes clearer when you prioritize storytelling over technical precision

Select individual songs to anchor a themed recital focused on contemporary film music or romantic comedy. The material also works well in cabaret settings or variety concerts where film music and pop sensibility are part of the overall aesthetic.

• Singing and playing contemporary pop melodies with jazz-influenced chord progressions
• Reading lead sheet notation and interpreting chord voicings at the keyboard
• Managing the balance between vocal melody and rhythmic accompaniment in pop-influenced styles
• Transposing and adapting songs to suit different vocal ranges and voice types