Open Voices 2026 – Concert 1 Third Draft

Liam Noronha

Tagline: Sing Together, Stand Together

Concept:
This Open Voices concert will centre around the power of song to bring people
together, uplift spirits, and inspire collective action towards peace and unity. We are all
responsible for one another and although activism for justice may be challenging, we shall
celebrate our shared humanity through the universal language of music. When we sing as
one, we can overcome divisions and foster a more peaceful world.

Setlist

Song 1: Sing – Joe Raposo
Originally written for Sesame Street and later made famous by The Carpenters, Joe
Raposo’s Sing is a heartfelt anthem to the power of music as a universal form of expression.
With its simple, direct lyrics and memorable melody, the song invites everyone, regardless of
age, background, or ability, to raise their voices and be heard.
In the context of our concert theme, Sing Together, Stand Together, this song is a declaration
of unity. It reminds us that even the quietest voices matter, and that singing is not just for the
trained or the talented, but for everyone. When we sing together, we build a community of
courage, joy, and hope. When we stand together, we affirm each other’s worth and dignity.

Link to Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwLC_pJ56PY

Score: Arranged.

Song 2: Turn the World Around – Harry Belafonte arr. Larry Farrow
This piece was originally written and composed by Harry Belafonte and Robert
Freedman for Belafonte’s album of the same name. Turn the World Around is distinguished
by its infectious rhythm, stirring lyrics, and vibrant instrumentation. Drawing inspiration
from African and Caribbean music, the song features a dynamic blend of percussive beats,
vocal harmonies, and melodic motifs that evoke a sense of celebration and solidarity.
At its core, Turn the World Around serves as a call to action – a reminder of our
shared responsibility to create positive change in the world. Through its uplifting lyrics and
spirited delivery, the song encourages listeners to embrace diversity, overcome adversity and
work together to build a brighter future for all. We must embrace its message of hope and
possibility by coming together to raise our voices and reaffirm our commitment to turning the
world around one note, one step, one voice, one heart at a time.

“I discovered that song in Africa. I was in a country called Guinea, and I went deep into the
interior of the country. In a little village, I met a storyteller. The storyteller went way back

into African tradition, into African mythology.

He began to tell a story about the fire, which means the Sun, about the water, and about the
Earth. He pointed out that all of these things put together turn the world around and that all of

us are here for a very, very short time.

In that time that we are here, there really isn’t any difference in any of us if we take the time
out to understand each other. And the question is: Do I know who you are? Do you know

who I am? Do we care about each other?
Because, if we do- together, we can turn the world around.”

-Harry Belafonte on the Muppet Show, 1979

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA1klHxTilY

Score: https://www.jwpepper.com/Turn-the-World-
Around/3030871.item?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAst67BhCEARIsAKKdWOnh1wTTvt
r1sXtQEdORMBF_UWuIXkQ2WoX2czfjh3p6QBKDVOIK0-4aAnRoEALw_wcB

Song 3: Days of Beauty – Ola Gjeilo
This song invites listeners to reflect on the beauty of the natural world and its ability
to inspire peace and unity. The text explores themes of renewal, hope, and wonder and paints
a vivid picture of nature’s cycles, urging us to cherish the fleeting beauty that connects us to
something greater than ourselves. This encourages us to find common ground in our
appreciation of life’s fragile beauty and to work together in preserving it for future
generations.

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQKdwodfljQ&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzl
SSu7dxv&index=3

Score: https://www.jwpepper.com/Days-of-
Beauty/10849156.item?srsltid=AfmBOopsPM4zJHA5dwgUMoGMIIwxwi3AUkVVCrXown
4OVNPpRdWM0wpy

Song 4: SONG TBD
Link to Song: TBD
Score: TBD

Song 5: Silent Noon – Ralph Vaughan Williams
Silent Noon is one of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ most beloved works, originally
composed as part of his House of Life song cycle. The piece sets Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s
poetic imagery to music, painting a serene picture of two lovers resting in the stillness of
nature. With its lyrical melody and lush harmonic underpinnings, Vaughan Williams captures
the essence of timeless beauty and tranquillity. The choir’s performance of this choral
adaptation evokes a sense of connection—between people, nature, and the shared moments of
peace that unite us all. In the context of this concert, “Silent Noon” invites us to pause,
reflect, and cherish the harmony within and around us.
Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnids288oPg&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzlS
Su7dxv&index=5

Score: https://giamusic.com/resource/silent-noon-print-g7356

Song 6: Rainbow Connection – Jim Henson
Originally performed by Kermit the Frog in The Muppet Movie (1979), Rainbow
Connection has become an enduring anthem of hope, wonder, and curiosity. Written by Paul
Williams and Kenneth Ascher, the song’s whimsical yet profound lyrics explore themes of
dreams, unity, and the search for something greater than ourselves. The simple melody,
paired with heartfelt harmonies, resonates with audiences of all ages. In the context of this
concert, Rainbow Connection reminds us of the shared dreams that unite humanity. It
encourages us to embrace our differences, cherish the mysteries of life, and work together to
build a brighter, more inclusive future.
As the final piece before the intermission, the song serves as a joyful and reflective reminder
of the power of music to connect hearts and inspire action.

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKphuLqr1mI&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzl
SSu7dxv&index=6

Score: Arranged.

INTERMISSION

Song 7: The Road Home – Stephen Paulus
The Road Home is a deeply moving choral work that speaks to the universal longing
for belonging and the search for one’s true home. Stephen Paulus’s hauntingly beautiful
melody, paired with Michael Dennis Browne’s heartfelt lyrics, creates a reflective and soul-
stirring experience.
The simplicity of the melody mirrors the profound message of the text: home is not just a
place, but a feeling of peace and connection. This piece serves as a reminder that no matter
where life takes us, the road home is always within reach when we embrace love and unity.

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlcAt2dKXQU&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgz
lSSu7dxv&index=7

Score: https://stephenpaulus.com/products/the-road-home?variant=339662691

Song 8: Bridge Over Troubled Water – Paul Simon arr. Mark Heyes
This piece embodies the fundamental human experience of facing challenges and
finding strength through the support of others. Just as a bridge provides a safe passage over
turbulent waters, the song speaks to the ways in which we can offer comfort and stability to
one another during difficult times. The lyrics convey a message of unwavering support and
unconditional love, reflecting the deep connections that sustain us. The imagery of a bridge,
standing firm against the force of troubled waters, reminds us of the resilience and strength
that can be found in unity and empathy.

Link to Song: (THIS LINK IS BROKEN)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RfLVla-
ujo&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzlSSu7dxv&index=8

Score: https://www.halleonard.com/product/viewproduct.action?itemid=35002420

Song 9: The Impossible Dream from The Man of La Mancha – Mitch Leigh (1965) arr.
Mark Hayes
The Impossible Dream becomes a metaphor for the aspirations, hopes, and struggles
that define the human condition. Just as Don Quixote tilts at windmills in pursuit of his
impossible dream, so too do we face seemingly insurmountable challenges in our own lives,
striving for personal fulfilment, societal progress, and a better world. In the context of this
concert, “The Impossible Dream” reminds us of the importance of striving for a better world,
even when the odds seem insurmountable. It is a call to action, urging us to dream big, stand
firm, and work together to achieve the seemingly impossible.

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7HeJDOWvYw&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhucl
gzlSSu7dxv&index=9

Score: https://www.jwpepper.com/The-Impossible-
Dream/10515754.item?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAst67BhCEARIsAKKdWOmZ629rS
NtqDeY0SpUYS3ysxSHH-glxTomeydZ8iAIXbefaFkTAP0waAmVNEALw_wcB

Song 10: Just One Person – Larry Grossman
Just One Person is a heartwarming song with a profound message: the belief of a
single individual can inspire confidence, hope, and action. Originally written for Snoopy!!!
The Musical, it has since become a beloved anthem in many contexts, from community
gatherings to large-scale celebrations of resilience and unity.
The song begins with a gentle, personal plea, emphasizing the transformative power
of one voice believing in another. As it progresses, it swells into a triumphant chorus,
symbolizing how individual encouragement can ripple outward, uniting an entire community.
The piece reminds us that even small acts of support can have a profound impact, creating a
chain of belief and positivity that can change lives. This piece embodies the essence of the
concert’s theme: the interconnectedness of humanity and the role each of us plays in building
a better, more inclusive world.

Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeEzQ4qwkgo&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzl
SSu7dxv&index=10

Score: Arranged.

Song 11: Man In The Mirror – Michael Jackson arr. Lojeski
Man in the Mirror, first recorded by Michael Jackson in 1987, is a powerful anthem of
self-awareness and social responsibility. The song’s lyrics challenge us to look inward,
recognize our potential for growth, and take ownership of our role in creating change. With
its gospel-inspired melody and emotional depth, it has become a global call to action for
compassion and justice. The song’s central message—that meaningful change begins with
personal reflection—is universal. Through its moving harmonies and heartfelt delivery, Man
in the Mirror inspires us to confront inequities, heal divisions, and take steps toward a
brighter future.
In the context of this concert, the piece serves as a rallying cry, urging us all to embody the
values of peace, unity, and shared responsibility. It is a reminder that even the smallest acts of
kindness and self-improvement can have a significant impact on the world around us.
Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1RYGhMM27o&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhucl
gzlSSu7dxv&index=11
Score: Arranged.

Song 12: Here Comes the Sun – George Harrison arr. Alan Bilingsley
George Harrison’s Here Comes the Sun is a timeless celebration of renewal and hope.
Written in 1969 during a particularly challenging time for The Beatles, the song captures
Harrison’s joy and relief as he looked toward brighter days. With its gentle, uplifting melody
and optimistic lyrics, it has resonated with audiences around the world for over half a
century.The imagery of the sun breaking through the clouds symbolizes resilience, healing,
and the promise of new beginnings. This arrangement highlights the song’s warmth and
spirit, offering a sense of unity and renewal.
As the final piece of tonight’s program, Here Comes the Sun is both a conclusion and a
hopeful sendoff. It leaves us with a sense of optimism and connection, reminding us that, no
matter how dark the times, the light of community and shared humanity will always shine
through.
Link to Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1tU78pBhFs&list=PLCg_KBKdOMz6R2yznJvhuclgzl
SSu7dxv&index=12

Score: https://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-
music/search.jsp?eprintFlag=true&facetAccompaniments=P/A%20CD&keywords=here+com
es+the+sun&pageview=list-
view&perPage=24&facetVoiceGroups=Treble%20Choir&srsltid=AfmBOopPHy6I57L-
l2kvojKIcDrnhMAgB6a0-6VkQjjOMGjivB2MbAEr

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