We Are The World 25 For Haiti: 3-Part Mixed Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the anthem quality of the original while making it genuinely singable for mixed voices in a school setting. The arrangement respects the song's humanitarian purpose without requiring virtuosity, letting the message and musicality carry the performance. Programming this creates a meaningful moment that resonates far beyond the concert hall.

Singing this feels collaborative and purposeful. The familiar hook sits comfortably in three-part harmony while maintaining the infectious energy of the original, creating a warm collective sound that builds naturally toward conviction. There's inherent lift in the melodic writing that helps singers feel like they're part of something larger than themselves.

This arrangement works for middle school through adult community choirs seeking repertoire with both musical substance and social relevance. It accommodates singers with varying ranges and experience while remaining engaging for accomplished ensembles.

• Build the dynamic arc across the full piece. The arrangement gains power gradually, so resist the urge to sing everything at full volume early. Save your strength for the final statements of the hook.
• Balance the three parts carefully in rehearsal so no single line drowns out the others. Pay particular attention to how the soprano and alto lines interact in the chorus sections.
• Connect the lyrics emotionally rather than mechanically. Singers should understand they're performing a real song written for a genuine cause, which shapes how they approach phrasing and dynamics.
• Use the recorded accompaniment strategically in early rehearsals to lock the rhythmic feel, then gradually rehearse without it to build ownership of the arrangement.

Place this as a concert finale or standalone concert piece for occasions where repertoire selection can acknowledge real-world contexts. Its accessibility makes it ideal for benefits, fundraisers, or special community performances. It also works as a bridge between formal concert programming and shows that demonstrate choir's range of artistic purpose.

• Balancing three independent vocal lines while maintaining textural clarity
• Sustaining emotional intent across a longer work (19 pages)
• Connecting popular song style with choir arranging conventions
• Building dynamic shape at the ensemble level rather than through individual expression