Between the Lines: "The Greatest Show," Arranged by Bryan Sharpe

The Greatest Show

Presenting the dramatic opener from the blockbuster film The Greatest Showman in 3-part mixed/SAB and SSA arrangements for contemporary a cappella groups! Yes, even developing choirs can get in on the act with this powerhouse that is equally impressive and accessible. Surging energy grabs you right from the start and takes you to dizzying heights by the sing-your-heart-out chorus.

Arranger Bryan Sharpe earned his bachelor's degree in Music Education from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Though his studies were primarily instrumental, Bryan actively pursued performance and teaching experience in choral and vocal music as well. Bryan currently serves as the director of a number of middle and high school age a cappella groups in the Dayton area. In addition to directing, arranging, and performing, Bryan has judged a cappella competitions at the collegiate and high school level and given presentations on vocal percussion and arranging techniques. Bryan's arrangements have been featured on award winning a cappella albums and have been featured on multiple volumes of Best of High School A Cappella .

What inspired you to write The Greatest Show?

This song makes a great a cappella arrangement because of the vocal-driven dynamic nature and really provides a great opportunity for powerful vocal moments without being too hard or vocally demanding.

What teaching suggestions do you have to share for The Greatest Show?

First, learn and memorize your part thoroughly and quickly! The music-making part of rehearsals will be stagnant until the group is past notes and rhythms. If everyone is glued to their score, that will inhibit the creative process. Having parts memorized will allow for the group and the director to engage in musical rehearsal and refinement more quickly, creatively, and effectively, and help your group reach the next level. Also, record your rehearsals, listen as a group, and discuss what you hear—intentionally focus first on discussing what is working well, then discuss areas for targeted improvement. Segment your rehearsals into different groups and perform for each other. First, split up backgrounds (SAT) and soloist and rhythm (solo, vocal percussion, bass). Each group should focus on being able to create a compelling performance as a unit without the rest of the parts. This will also shine a light on things that need cleaned up! Also, split up into small groups with all parts represented if your numbers allow and perform for each other, offering constructive feedback with both positive reinforcement and areas that can improve.

What message do you have for singers learning this piece?

Pop a cappella is a great opportunity to bring your choir/group's unique energy and creativity to your performance and experiment musically with dynamics, choreography, sound equipment, and audience engagement. Experiment with ways to interpret the background syllables in a way that works best for your group. Also, take time with your group to sit down and think about the lyrics line by line. Discuss what the meaning may be and also think about and discuss how those lyrics apply to each of you personally. Then, let those discussions guide how you perform and emote through the music to take your performance to the next level. And … most importantly—HAVE FUN!