Another Op'nin', Another Show: SSA Choral Octavo

This arrangement captures the infectious energy and theatrical sass of a classic musical theater opener, giving SSA choirs access to one of Broadway's most beloved show-stoppers without sacrificing the sophistication of Porter's harmonic language. Philip Kern's voicing sits comfortably in the treble range while preserving the character and drive of the original, making it an ideal choice for building ensemble confidence and showcasing personality in concert.

Stepping into a dressing room on opening night. The energy is effervescent, the mood celebratory, and the attitude unshakeable. Porter's melody bounces with theatrical confidence while the arrangement keeps the focus on joy and camaraderie, inviting singers to embrace the performer within themselves.

This octavo suits SSA choirs at the intermediate to advanced high school level and beyond, especially those seeking accessible yet musically substantial Broadway material. Directors programming pops concerts, musical theater showcases, or cabaret-style events will find this arrangement immediately engaging for singers and audiences alike.

• Establish the brisk 2-beat feel early in rehearsal through clapping and conducting. The song's momentum depends on rhythmic precision and a clear sense of forward motion; work from the recorded accompaniment to lock the ensemble into that driving groove.
• Shape the phrasing around the lyrics rather than the bar lines. Porter's words land on specific beats for comedic effect; let the text dictate where the real breath points are, not where notation might suggest them.
• Balance humor with vocal execution. This is a showstopper that thrives on personality, but articulation clarity and blend in the treble register will let that personality shine without sacrificing ensemble sound.
• Keep the tempo conversational, not frantic. The classic Broadway feel of this piece comes from a confident, walking pace; rushing it flattens the wit of the lyrics.

Program this as an opener for a pops or Broadway-themed concert to set an upbeat, theatrical tone from the first number. It also works beautifully as a standalone feature or as part of a Cole Porter medley in a cabaret-style recital where staging and movement can enhance the show-biz charm.

• Singing in a clear 2-beat meter and maintaining rhythmic precision in a jazz-influenced harmonic context
• Projecting character and personality while maintaining ensemble balance and blend
• Navigating Porter's chromatic and jazz-inflected harmonies with intonation security
• Coordinating with recorded accompaniment and maintaining ensemble cohesion with instrumental partners