Bellas Finale: SSAA Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures the infectious energy and harmonic sophistication of this track in a format that works for intermediate ensembles. The octavo's clarity on voicing makes it approachable while maintaining the contemporary groove that keeps students engaged and invested in learning.

This arrangement pulses with modern energy and attitude. The layered voices create a sense of unity and celebration, with moments of call and response that feel conversational and alive rather than formal.

Choirs looking to program contemporary repertoire with harmonic interest and infectious groove will find this arrangement accessible at the intermediate level. It works equally well for show choirs, chamber ensembles, or traditional concert programs seeking to bridge classical and popular music worlds.

• Lock the rhythmic feel early in rehearsals by isolating the bass line and working backward; once singers feel the pocket, melodic and harmonic details integrate much faster.
• Pay attention to the blend between SSAA moments and fuller sections; lighter upper voices during transitions prevent the sound from becoming shrill.
• Record yourself singing along to the arrangement at performance tempo, then play it back during rehearsals so the ensemble can hear the completed sound they're building toward.
• Treat the climactic moments like a pop production rather than a traditional choral swell; punch them with confidence and precision instead of adding volume.

Position this as a contrast piece in a concert featuring art songs or classical repertoire, or open a pop or musical theatre set with it to establish an immediate connection with the audience. Its 14 pages make it substantial enough to serve as a concert centerpiece without overwhelming rehearsal time.

• Rhythmic precision in contemporary grooves and syncopated patterns
• Layering and balance between harmonic parts in SSAA voicing
• Singing with rhythmic independence while maintaining ensemble unity
• Stylistic interpretation of popular music versus traditional classical phrasing