When I Grow Up (from Matilda: The Musical) (arr. Roger Emerson): 3-Part Mixed Choral Octavo

Emerson's arrangement captures the defiant optimism of Matilda's anthem without requiring vocal gymnastics from your singers. The three-part writing sits comfortably across mixed voices, and the song's infectious melody ensures your students will be singing it long after rehearsals end.

There's quiet power in this song. It begins introspectively, with a young person imagining a future larger than their current circumstances, then builds into a declaration of self-belief. The music captures both the vulnerability and the fierce hope.

This works beautifully for middle school through high school choirs looking for contemporary material with real emotional substance. It's equally valuable for community or semi-professional ensembles seeking something that resonates with mixed-age audiences.

• Balance the text clarity with the lift of the melody; young singers often rush through lyrics out of excitement, so anchor the rhythmic precision early in rehearsals.
• Find the character arc in the song. Matilda moves from reflection to determination, so shape your dynamic curve to reflect that emotional journey rather than singing at one dynamic level.
• Let the harmony parts find their independence. When singers understand they're not shadowing the melody but building support around it, part security improves dramatically.
• Consider what accompaniment best serves your group. The arrangement works effectively with piano, a small instrumental ensemble, or backing tracks, depending on your resources.

Place this in spring concerts or end-of-year celebrations where you want a moment of genuine connection with your audience. It pairs well alongside other contemporary Broadway selections or stands alone as a standalone feature that opens doors to talking about character development and storytelling in music.

• Phrasing in contemporary musical theater style
• Balancing melody and harmonic support in mixed voicing
• Text expression and emotional commitment to lyrics
• Part independence without losing ensemble cohesion
• Sustaining energy and interest across a longer form song