Between the Lines: “What Love Can Do,” by Mark Burrows

"We will reach out, sing out, make a change. We will show the world what love can do!" These empowering lyrics from What Love Can Do were inspired by thoughts and feelings from amazing young people at a virtual conference held in 2020. Spread the important message with this stirring anthem of hope by stellar composer and youth mentor, Mark Burrows. Starts with a tiny mezzo-soprano seed and blossoms into a full bloom fortissimo. Along the way, intuitive pop rhythms, satisfying harmonies, an especially memorable bridge, a moment of a cappella, and even handclaps help to secure that full finale effect.

Mark Burrows

Mark is a composer, conductor, and educator whose music is published by many major publishing houses. His works are featured on numerous state and festival lists, and he receives multiple commissions each year for groups ranging from children’s choirs to adult ensembles to intergenerational festival choirs. Mark received his undergraduate degree in music education from Southern Methodist University and his graduate degree in conducting from Texas Christian University. Learn more about Mark and see a full list of his Alfred Music publications here .

What inspired you to compose What Love Can Do?

The words were inspired by thoughts from young people in a summer (virtual) arts camp I led recently. With everything going on in the world and in their lives, I wanted them to see and experience how the arts are such a constructive way to deal with the feelings we have.

What teaching suggestions do you have to share for What Love Can Do ?

There is an urgency to the message of this piece. Take care not to over-sing. Rely on good breath support and unified vowels (solid technique) so that the power of the message can connect with the listeners.

What message do you have for singers learning this piece?

I believe one of the responsibilities of an artist is to listen to the world— to its joy, pain, wonder, yearning, anger, brokenness—and through music to turn it into something that is honest and hopeful. There are days (and weeks) when I really have to dig to find the hope. But it’s there. The fact that you’re singing this song right now gives me more hope than you may know!

See & Hear Now

Mark offers even more insights on the creation of this arrangement and how to teach it in this quick video.