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One of the challenges we face as voice teachers is coming up with new repertoire that is both appealing and appropriate for our young singers. We all know and love the classic Disney favorites, but there are so many fantastic, lesser-known songs sung by these beloved characters for us to explore in our studios!
As a 90s baby, I grew up in the golden age of Disney animated feature films, all of which were followed up with sequels, spin-off series, sing-a-long specials, and the like. I took a welcome trip down memory lane (and to the depths of Spotify) to find several rare gems that I’m happy to share:
“In Harmony” from The Little Mermaid TV Series: Season 1, Episode 9: “The Evil Manta” Written by: Michael & Patricia Silversher
Performed by: Jodi Benson
This song has long been one of my favorites for young Ariel fans. An upbeat companion or prequel to “Part of Your World,” this super fun song with great, relevant lyrics is one that has stayed with me since childhood.
Your students can also find this episode of the 90s TV series on Disney+!
"Everyday Princess" from "Bayou Boogie"
Written by: Dapo Torimiro
Performed by: Anika Noni Rose
This album was released by Walt Disney Records following the success of the film The Princess and the Frog in 2010, featuring its original cast. I love the soulful, New-Orleans inspired music of this film, and now we get even more to choose from, especially if “Almost There” is already a favorite!
I was not able to track down a score, but it’s a great opportunity to learn by ear, especially given the style.
Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World
Written by: Marty Panzer & Larry Grossman Performed by: Judy Kuhn
Despite the historical inaccuracies of these films, the Pocahontas songs such as "Colors of the Wind" and "Just Around The Riverbend" are so musically rich and lyrically beautiful with their strong connections to nature. This dramatic and relatable song fits well among them, both stylistically and thematically. Not to mention it features a stunning vocal performance by Judy Kuhn, which I'm always here for!
Beauty & The Beast: The Enchanted Christmas
Written by: Rachel Portman & Don Black Performed by: Paige O'Hara, etc.
This beautiful melody is just FULL of nostalgia for me! Who remembers this movie, and most notably, Bernadette Peters as the Christmas angel ornament, Angelique?! There are several versions of this song, including a reprise (with Belle and Angelique in harmony) and the end credits duet version with Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack. All are wonderful and worth checking out before the Holiday season!
Click here for the score on MusicNotes (w/ transposition)
"If Only" - Quartet from The Little Mermaid
Original Broadway Musical
*Audition Cut Alert!* I've been music directing a production of The Little Mermaid this Fall, and a highlight for me has been this stunning quartet between Ariel, Eric, King Triton, & Sebastian.
Ariel kicks it off with a really beautiful solo section that makes for a great audition cut! It's approx. 1:13 and less than 32 bars. A lovely vocal showcase for sopranos that provides a great alternative to the more commonly sung Ariel numbers.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions about these pieces! I look forward to sharing more; next on the list is Prince Edition and Duets Edition!
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