Big Spender (from Sweet Charity): Choral Octavo

Big Spender is a showstopper that works equally well as a rousing ensemble number or a feature for confident soloists. The syncopated rhythms and bluesy harmonic language give singers genuine jazz vocabulary to sink their teeth into, while the conversational, witty text keeps rehearsals sharp and performances entertaining.

Slick and sassy with a wink to the audience. The song radiates the cool confidence of a sophisticated nightclub number, full of cheeky innuendo delivered with charm and polish. It's the kind of piece that makes singers feel glamorous and a little bit mischievous.

Choirs looking for accessible yet sophisticated Broadway material that challenges singers' rhythmic literacy and jazz sensibility without requiring advanced vocal technique. This works for middle school through adult ensembles seeking a fun, recognizable number that lands well in concert or pops programming.

• Nail the rhythmic precision on the syncopated figures; this tune lives and dies on crisp articulation and unified subdivision across your section.
• Lean into the jazzy, conversational tone of the lyrics rather than over-singing; Coleman's humor comes through best when the text feels spoken as much as sung.
• Balance the melody line carefully if you're using this as a feature; the supporting voices should lock in harmonically without overshadowing the lead.
• Let the groove breathe in rehearsal by using the recorded accompaniment frequently so singers internalize the swing feel rather than fighting it.

Perfect as a closing number or pops concert standout where you want to end on an upbeat, audience-pleasing note. This also pairs well with other 1960s Broadway material or can anchor a jazz-standards themed set for chamber choirs or madrigal singers looking to branch into musical theatre.

• Syncopated rhythm reading and execution
• Jazz articulation and swing phrasing
• Harmonic precision in contemporary pop-influenced writing
• Conversational text delivery and character awareness
• Ensemble balance between melody and supporting voices