You Raise Me Up (arr. Ed Lojeski): SSAA Choral Octavo

Ed Lojeski's arrangement captures the emotional directness of Groban's interpretation while giving choirs the space to find their own voice in this contemporary standard. The SSAA voicing opens the piece to diverse ensemble configurations, and the five-page score strikes a balance between accessibility and musical substance that keeps singers engaged without overcomplicating the harmonic fabric.

Uplifting and earnest, this arrangement lets the song's fundamental kindness shine through. There's no irony or postmodern winking here; just honest emotion supported by clear harmonic writing that feels both modern and timeless.

Choirs with strong soprano sections and singers comfortable with contemporary arranging. This works well for intermediate to advanced ensembles seeking repertoire that connects with audiences and offers singers a recognizable, emotionally resonant piece to perform.

• Shape the phrases through breath, not just dynamics. The text naturally guides phrasing, so let singers breathe where the lyrics suggest rather than fighting against the language.
• Balance the soprano lines carefully in the upper register. These voices carry the melody frequently, so monitor for fatigue and ensure they're supported by warm, present alto voicing underneath.
• Approach the arranged sections with restraint. Where the arrangement adds texture or divides the choir, treat those moments as supportive rather than prominent; the core melody remains the heart of the piece.

This belongs on concert programs where you're reaching beyond traditional choral repertoire. It pairs naturally with pops concerts, community engagement events, or as a powerful closing piece for a spring concert that needs to leave audiences thinking about something genuine.

• Singing with legit contemporary vowels and sustain in a non-classical context
• Balancing independent melodic lines while maintaining ensemble cohesion
• Musical interpretation of a song already familiar to many listeners
• Managing sustained phrases and breath control in an arranged setting