A Musical Sheet Music Preview

A Musical: SATB Choral Octavo

From the Musical Something Rotten!

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

Item: 00-PO-0003760

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$2.35

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

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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
Page Count: 20
SKU: 00-PO-0003760

More about this title

About the Composer: Karey Kirkpatrick

Karey Kirkpatrick is a composer and lyricist whose work spans film, television, and stage. He has received Tony nominations for his theatrical compositions and is recognized for his ability to craft accessible, character-driven music that serves storytelling across multiple genres and formats.

Why we love this

This number captures the absurdist humor of its source material while giving choirs a genuinely fun, high-energy piece that audiences love. The arrangement by Andy Beck balances theatrical flair with singable lines, making it equally strong for concert programming and show choir showcases without requiring elaborate staging.

What to expect

Clever and theatrical, with the infectious energy of a Broadway number that breaks the fourth wall. The music radiates playfulness and confidence, inviting the choir to wink at the audience while singing about actors who suddenly burst into song.

Who it's for

Concert choirs and show choirs looking for repertoire that entertains without sacrificing musical substance. This octavo works equally well for groups wanting to add theatrical pieces to a traditional concert or for choirs building a contemporary pop show.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lean into the comedic timing of the text and the moment the singing 'just starts.' The contrast between spoken delivery and sung material needs clear differentiation to land the humor.
  • Balance the energy across all four voices; this piece thrives when the entire choir commits to the theatrical spirit rather than treating it as a traditional choral work.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment to nail the rhythmic precision, especially in sections where the groove drives the piece forward.
  • Emphasize diction clarity so the audience catches the witty lyrics that anchor the comedy of the piece.

How to use it

Place this piece where it can breathe as a showcase moment. It lands with impact in a concert dominated by classical or art song repertoire, or it anchors a set of contemporary choral works. The theatrical nature makes it ideal for spring concerts or end-of-year performances where choirs can let loose.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic precision in contemporary popular music idioms
  • Dramatic interpretation and comedic delivery within choral singing
  • Balancing ensemble cohesion with individual character voice
  • Diction and text clarity in humorous material
  • Confidence performing theatrical repertoire

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