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A Musical: SATB Choral Octavo

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A Musical Cover Image

A Musical: SATB Choral Octavo

From the Musical Something Rotten!

Words and music by Karey Kirkpatrick and Wayne Kirkpatrick / arr. Andy Beck

Item: 00-45559

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Description
In this Tony-nominated number, while trying their best to compete with the wildly successful William Shakespeare, the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, follow the advice of Nostradamus and create a play where an actor is saying his lines, and "out of nowhere, he just starts singing." A terrific showcase for concert and show choirs!

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, A Musical: SATB Choral Octavo comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 20
UPC: 038081512983
SKU: 00-45559

More about this title

About the Composer: Karey Kirkpatrick

Karey Kirkpatrick is a composer and lyricist whose work spans Broadway, film, and television. He co-wrote the score for "Something Rotten!" with his brother Wayne Kirkpatrick, the musical that earned Tony nominations for Best Original Score and Best New Musical in 2015. His ability to blend humor, character-driven storytelling, and genuinely singable melodies has made his work accessible to both professional and educational ensembles.

Beyond "Something Rotten!," Kirkpatrick has contributed to numerous animated films and television projects, always bringing a gift for writing lyrics that serve the story while remaining engaging for performers. His arrangements and compositions for choral groups demonstrate his understanding of what makes music work in ensemble settings.

Why we love this

This number captures the joy of theater itself, letting your choir inhabit the comedy and absurdity of two playwrights trying to revolutionize theater by adding... singing. Andy Beck's choral arrangement makes the humor land without sacrificing musicality, and the piece gives your ensemble permission to be theatrical and have fun while singing well.

What to expect

Clever and playful, with the energy of characters suddenly discovering something brilliant. The music captures that moment of theatrical inspiration—when a wild idea actually works. It's cheeky without being condescending, with genuine musicality beneath the humor.

Who it's for

Concert choirs and show choirs looking for contemporary repertoire with personality and theatrical appeal. The piece works equally well for advanced high school ensembles and college/community choirs seeking material that engages audiences beyond traditional concert fare.

How to get the most out of it

  • Commit fully to the comedic premise from the first rehearsal. The piece works best when singers understand they're performing characters who are discovering the power of adding song to dialogue.
  • Shape the phrase "out of nowhere, he just starts singing" so the revelation lands clearly. This is your musical payoff and needs precise rhythmic alignment across all sections.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment during rehearsals to lock tempos and ensure clean ensemble sound, especially during rapid text-setting passages.
  • Balance diction with musicality in the storytelling moments. These characters are actors first, so clarity serves the comedy.

How to use it

Program this as a concert highlight or closer that leaves audiences smiling. It pairs well with other contemporary choral selections or works as a palate cleanser between heavier repertoire. Show choirs can use it as a fun ensemble number that showcases musical storytelling without requiring elaborate staging.

Skills your students will build

  • Acting and characterization while maintaining choral precision
  • Clear diction in rapid text-setting passages
  • Rhythmic ensemble accuracy during comic timing moments
  • Dynamic contrast and musical storytelling in secular choral literature

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