Beautiful Creatures (from Rio 2) (arr. Roger Emerson): Choral Instrumental Pak

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the infectious spirit of the original while keeping the voicing accessible for young singers. The rhythm section foundation gives everyone in your ensemble a meaningful part, making this feel like a celebration rather than a performance.

Bright, rhythmically propulsive, and genuinely joyful without veering into saccharine. The arrangement pulses with the kind of infectious energy that makes singers want to move and audiences want to smile.

Directors working with children's choirs, middle school ensembles, and mixed-age groups who want repertoire that celebrates individuality while building community. This works equally well for spring concerts, diversity celebrations, or programs with a contemporary film or pop music focus.

• Lean into the syncopated rhythms in the accompaniment parts; let them drive the groove rather than sitting behind the melody
• Balance the choir so the layered vocal textures don't overwhelm the rhythmic vitality that makes this arrangement breathe
• Invest rehearsal time in the percussion and accompaniment parts early; once those lock, the singers will find their pocket naturally

Pair this with other contemporary or film selections to create a pop-influenced set, or slot it into a spring concert as a mood lifter that reminds audiences why ensemble singing matters. Its upbeat character makes it ideal for closing a set or bridging between more serious repertoire.

• Rhythmic independence (maintaining steady rhythms while others carry melody)
• Syncopated rhythm reading and performance
• Sectional balance in layered vocal textures
• Connection between rhythm section and melodic line