Customer Reviews

Songs for a New World: Piano/Vocal Selections

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"Songs for a New World" is one of those shows that is a musical theatre performer's dream. Although the music can be incredibly demanding, the satisfaction that comes from successfully performing any of the songs in this book cannot be beat. Not only does the music really offer a chance to showcase vocal pyrotechnics, but each and every song offers (no, requires) strong acting choices. These would be perfect audition songs if the accompanment wasn't so difficult. But if you know you'll have an accompanist who can cite read some of the most difficult piano pieces in all of musical theatre, than by all means go for it.

This book gives you 10 of the 16 songs found in the show. The only problem is, the score for "Songs" is so strong that some stellar numbers inevitably got overlooked. However, the omission of "Just One Step" is unforgivable, and coupled with the lack of music for "The Steam Train" (my personal favorites) is responsible for the four star rating instead of five. Still, this book is well worth the investment.

It was a quality product that arrived on time for a great price. What more can I ask for? A1 Books is once again great to work with.

First, buy the album. After you fall in love with the music (because, of course, you will), buy this book and have at it. This is probably the most challenging and rewarding "pop" music for a pianist to play that you will ever encounter. It's rhythmically intense, and harmonically it is very fun, too. Not exactly the stuff you can sing and play at the same time.

Jason Robert Brown is among my favorite composers. His music is a delight to play and sing. Be aware that much of this music will be frustratingly difficult for less experienced performers (pianists and singers alike), but it is absolutely worth the effort for any who can pull it off. And a splash of blissfully simple music, in "A Christmas Lullaby." Although I have my own objections, like everyone else, to certain songs that were not included, that's just what happens in a vocal selections book, and is no reason not to take advantage of what IS available.

Please realize that the ONLY reason people are giving this work anything below five stars is NOT because of a lack of music quality; it's merely because not all the songs were included!

And it is this way with EVERY musical theatre score released to the public; composers are NEVER ALLOWED publish all of the songs from the show, because of legalities and technicalities [every show is owned by a publishing company, and performers have to pay publishing companies to do the show. If all songs from a show are included in publicly-released piano/vocal scores, anyone could go out and do an illegal production of the material].

I agree, 'just one step' IS amazing, but if you really want to sing that song, it IS PUBLISHED in jason robert brown's newest compilation [the orange one].

Jason Robert Brown is today's best contemporary music-theatre composer.
Songs for a New World is his best work [tied with Parade].

Unlike most other "must-own" songbooks, however, "Songs for a New World," is a song-cycle; that is, it's not a full story which follows a plot. It's a combination of songs that speak to one central theme. Because of this, a variety of characters and musical styles are present in this piece, and there is quite literally a song for everyone here.

Seriously - the four singers on the cast recording are a soprano, an alto, a tenor, and a bass. No matter what your voice type - belter or legit - there's something beautiful for you here.

Even if two songs are omitted, this is STILL a must-have! Get your hands on this music!

Jason Robert Brown is the best song writer ever. His music is very clever and witty! This is a must have as well as the cd!

I loved this show the moment the lights came up on the stage. If you are a fan, as well as an avid piano player, you'll love the music. There is such a range of material in these selections... just be wary that you'll have to practice to keep up with Jason Robert Brown!!

Of all the songs to leave out of a vocal selection, I cannot think whoe decided to leave out Just One Step, a highlight in my opinion!
When we are trying to promote good musicals, it is important that key songs be included.

i love the music it takes me to another place. Away from all of the stresses of life.