A Soulful 70's Snapshot (Medley): Choral Instrumental Pak
Arranged by Kirby Shaw
Item: 35-PK01457040
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About the Arranger: Kirby Shaw

Kirby Shaw has spent decades shaping choral music education across North America, Europe, and beyond, earning recognition in 45 states plus Canada, Australia, and several European countries. His formal training includes degrees in Music Education and Choral Composition from San Jose State University and a DMA in Choral Conducting from the University of Washington. He founded and directed the celebrated COS Vocal Jazz Ensemble at College of the Siskiyous and has held similar positions at Colorado State University and the University of Missouri at Kansas City, currently directing the Jefferson State Choral Coalition at Southern Oregon University.
Shaw brings infectious energy and genuine musical depth to everything he creates. His direct mentorship from jazz legends including Bobby McFerrin, Mark Murphy, and Al Jarreau informed his approach to arranging. With over 2,500 published choral arrangements and compositions that have sold nearly 20 million copies worldwide, Shaw's work is performed globally. His prolific output has earned multiple ASCAP awards, and his most recent major commission came from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Beyond arranging, he collaborates with his wife Markita on original theatrical projects and performs as a member of Just 4 Kicks, a four-voice jazz ensemble.
Why we love this
Shaw's ear for vocal blend and rhythmic swing makes these three 70's classics feel fresh rather than retro. The medley format lets you program substantial musical content without requiring a full evening's preparation, and the warmth of these particular songs gives students genuine joy in rehearsal.
What to expect
Warm, groovy, and unapologetically feel-good. These arrangements capture the heart of 70's soul without pastiche, letting singers inhabit songs built on melody and conviction rather than technical flash.
Who it's for
Mixed choral ensembles seeking accessible material with genuine style and appeal. This works for groups ranging from high school to community choir level who want to perform music that connects with audiences without requiring advanced vocal gymnastics.
How to get the most out of it
- Nail the groove pocket early in rehearsals. These songs live or die on rhythmic pocket, so lock the foundation with your rhythm section before polishing voicing balance.
- Let the lyrics breathe between songs. The three tracks have distinct emotional centers, so give your singers a beat of silence to reset before each new song begins.
- Consider instrumental textures as color, not as background filler. If you're using the Pak accompaniment, balance voices and instruments so the band complements rather than dominates each section.
How to use it
Slot this into a spring or end-of-year concert to balance more demanding contemporary or classical work. The nostalgia factor also makes it ideal for pops nights, alumni events, or community celebrations where sing-along energy matters more than complexity.
Skills your students will build
- Singing with rhythmic precision across funk and soul grooves
- Blending in jazz voicings and extended harmonies
- Connecting lyrics to emotional intention rather than technical execution
- Balancing vocal blend with instrumental accompaniment
- Transitioning smoothly between contrasting song moods within a single performance