Wonderful Life (from Smallfoot) (arr. Mark Brymer): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Mark Brymer's arrangement captures the uplifting optimism of the original without oversimplifying the harmonic landscape. For middle and high school choirs, this 2-part setting opens the song to singers who might find full SATB voicings intimidating, while the film's contemporary context gives students genuine enthusiasm for learning the material.

Bright and affirming, with the kind of melodic directness that sticks in listeners' ears without feeling saccharine. The arrangement balances modern pop sensibilities with choral writing that respects voice leading and harmonic depth.

Choirs looking to program contemporary pop material that connects with student singers while maintaining genuine musical substance. The 2-part voicing makes it accessible for younger choirs, middle school ensembles, or programs seeking to build confidence in developing musicians.

• Balance the melody between parts during unison passages; even when both sections sing the same line, the top part often carries the primary phrase shape and should sit slightly forward in the mix.
• Shape the text dynamically around the hook's natural rhythms rather than hitting every word with equal stress; let the word painting drive your phrasing choices.
• Treat the recorded accompaniment as a learning tool during rehearsal, but practice singing unaccompanied in sections to build independence and ensemble awareness.

The winter holiday designation makes this ideal for concerts in December, though its universal themes of hope and possibility work equally well in spring programming or end-of-year celebrations. Pair it with other film or contemporary pop arrangements to showcase your choir's range across musical styles.

• Part independence in 2-part writing
• Singing with contemporary pop phrasing while maintaining choral tone
• Text expression and lyrical storytelling
• Balance between melody and supporting harmony
• Ensemble cohesion across divisi sections