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A Musical: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

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A Musical Cover Image

A Musical: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

From the Musical Something Rotten!

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

Item: 00-45563

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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!

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
UPC: 038081513027
SKU: 00-45563

More about this title

About the Composer: Karey Kirkpatrick

Karey Kirkpatrick is a composer and lyricist known for his work across film, television, and musical theater. His gift for character-driven storytelling and comedic timing has earned him recognition in the entertainment industry, including a Tony nomination for this very number. His compositions balance accessibility with genuine theatrical craft, making them natural fits for educational and professional choral programs.

Why we love this

This arrangement captures the anarchic energy of a Broadway moment without losing the charm that made it Tony-worthy. Directors appreciate how Andy Beck's choral writing serves the comedy while remaining vocally grateful, and the recorded accompaniment gives singers the confidence to commit to the theatrical storytelling that makes this number land.

What to expect

Theatrical chaos in the best way. The song captures that delicious moment when someone breaks character and starts singing, blending Shakespeare-era grandeur with modern pop sensibility. It's clever, it's energetic, and it invites singers to ham it up just enough without losing musicality.

Who it's for

Concert choirs and show choirs who want a contemporary piece with genuine comedic sophistication and Broadway flair. This works equally well as a show choir feature or as a concert program closer that sends audiences out laughing.

How to get the most out of it

  • Embrace the absurdist humor of the premise. The comedy lives in how seriously your singers deliver the moment when 'he just starts singing'—that contrast is what makes the number work.
  • Balance clarity of text with the musical line. This piece demands both conversational diction and sustained vocal tone; rehearse sections where these compete so neither suffers.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment to lock into the Broadway timing and energy, then gradually shift rehearsals toward independent ensemble cohesion so the choir owns the groove.
  • Shape the dynamics to highlight character moments. The piece gains momentum when soloists pop against the choir, so mark your score with who's carrying the song in each phrase.

How to use it

Program this as a concert finisher or as the centerpiece of a comedic medley set. It pairs naturally with other contemporary Broadway selections and works as a palate cleanser between heavier classical or spiritual repertoire. The theatrical nature and recorded accompaniment also make it a strong choice for variety show or competition settings where choirs need a piece with personality.

Skills your students will build

  • Balancing comedic acting with vocal technique
  • Singing with clear diction while maintaining legit tone
  • Following a recorded accompaniment with ensemble precision
  • Shifting vocal weight between solo and choral moments
  • Character-driven interpretation of popular music

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