A Beautiful Noise by Brandi Carlile 4-Part - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.1604829

This piece speaks to the times we are living in, in which community and the power of our voices have never been more important. It begins with a hummed motif before building around a simple yet powerful phrase: “I have a voice.” This phrase grows from a whisper to a collective roar, reminding us that our voices matter—and that together, they can create real change.

When arranging this for mixed chorus, I wanted to reflect the complexity of our individual perspectives—some shared, some contrasting—by shifting between unison, two-part, four-part, and even eight-part harmonies. This represents both our unique voices and our ability to come together as one. The a cappella section amplifies this idea, moving from dense chords to unison, symbolizing how diverse voices can coexist while still uniting behind a singular message. Also, throughout the piece, the melody is passed from one part to another. Because the melody is often seen as the primary focus of a piece, I wanted it to be shared by all voices.

Section A Options:
Option 1: Staggered Entrances
The phrase “I have a voice” is first sung as a solo (measure 1). On each repeat of “I have a voice,” more voices join in. The second time (measure 3), a fifth of the choir joins. The third time (repeat of measure 1), half of the choir sings. The fourth time (measure 3), the full choir sings. All singers perform the hummed “hmm” notes together. To enhance the drama, all singers begin with their heads down. As each singer joins, they raise their head. This visual element reinforces the gradual build-up of voices and the message of collective bravery.

Option 2: Gradual Crescendo
The entire choir begins singing the phrase together, starting pianissimo. With each repeat, the dynamic and intensity gradually increase, reaching mezzo-forte by the final repeat. To enhance the dramatic effect, all singers begin with their heads down, slightly raising them with each repeat. By the final repeat, all singers should have their heads fully level, facing the director.

Performance of the Hum:
The “Hmm” is meant to be sung with an audible “h” sound, naturally moving to the “m” sound on the first note, then sliding to the second note while staying on the “m” sound.