We Stand With P.R.I.D.E.: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Jacobson and Mac Huff have created something rare in festival literature: a piece that genuinely engages singers with a contemporary message while remaining musically substantive for 2-part choirs. The arrangement respects the developmental level of younger ensembles without condescending to them, offering interesting harmonic moments and rhythmic figures that keep rehearsals engaging.

The piece carries an uplifting, contemporary energy appropriate to its affirmative text. Two-part writing creates opportunities for satisfying vocal independence while keeping the harmonic language clean and modern.

Middle school and high school choirs seeking contemporary repertoire with a message beyond the music. Directors programming festival concerts or pops-style events will find this accessible for mixed-ability ensembles without sacrificing musicality or relevance.

• Build awareness of the piece's message during rehearsal so singers connect emotionally to what they're singing. This isn't just another concert number; encourage them to understand the context and why these words matter.
• Give your singers ownership over the vocal line by asking them to find the moments where the melody rises or falls with intention. This leads naturally to better phrasing and dynamics without requiring constant direction.
• Balance the two parts carefully during runs and busier rhythmic sections. Record yourselves in rehearsal and play it back so singers can hear where either part is overpowering the other.

Position this as a centerpiece for a festival or concert showcasing how choirs engage with current social themes. It pairs naturally with other accessible contemporary works and provides a memorable moment that resonates with student singers and their families.

• Reading and performing 2-part harmonic structures
• Sustaining melodic independence within a larger ensemble texture
• Connecting lyrical content to vocal interpretation and phrasing
• Maintaining rhythmic precision in contemporary vocal writing