We Know The Way (from Moana) (arr. Roger Emerson): SATB Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the song's driving energy without sacrificing the cultural authenticity of the original. The voicing sits comfortably across all four parts while maintaining the propulsive rhythm that makes this piece so engaging for young singers, and it works equally well as a concert feature or as part of a larger thematic program.

Propulsive and joyful, with an almost ceremonial quality that honors the song's Polynesian roots. The music builds through sheer rhythmic momentum and harmonic color rather than through traditional climactic arc, creating a sense of gathering strength and collective voice.

Choirs with solid sight-reading skills and the rhythmic maturity to navigate the syncopation and drive of the piece. This works for middle school through early high school ensembles, and it's particularly effective for groups working with diverse repertoire or exploring film music in concert settings.

• Emphasize the rhythmic precision of the ensemble from the start; this piece thrives on locked, intentional attacks rather than a loose interpretive approach.
• Shape phrases around the text's natural speech patterns rather than expecting traditional legit phrasing; the conversational quality of the lyrics is part of the song's power.
• Bring out the distinctive harmonic moments without letting them pull the focus away from the forward momentum that defines the piece.
• Balance the soloistic opportunities (if included in the arrangement) so they land as moments of emphasis within the ensemble sound rather than as separate spotlight moments.

Place this as a concert centerpiece for a program exploring film and contemporary music, or use it alongside other world music and cultural repertoire to create a thematically cohesive set. Its accessible energy makes it an excellent choice for spring or family concerts where you want pieces that engage audiences across age groups.

• Syncopated rhythm reading and consistent pulse maintenance
• Harmonic awareness through shifting chord colors
• Text expression and emotional communication through contemporary material
• Ensemble lock and precision in driving, rhythmically driven music
• Culturally informed interpretation of non-Western musical sources