Blues Back to Back: SSA Choral Octavo

Shaw's arrangement captures the swagger and sophistication of Great American Songbook standards while writing for SSA voices with genuine rhythmic and harmonic accessibility. The pairing of two blockbuster melodies in a single octavo gives you concert-ready material without the burden of learning multiple new pieces, and his jazzed-up voicings teach style through doing rather than lecture.

Smooth, conversational, and undeniably cool. The arrangement wraps familiar melodies in warm jazz harmonies and swinging rhythms that feel both polished and relaxed, inviting singers to explore phrasing and articulation beyond typical choral conventions.

SSA choirs seeking accessible yet musically substantive arrangements of jazz standards, along with directors who want to introduce singers to Great American Songbook idioms without complex part-writing. The digital download format and available instrumental parts make it practical for programs of all sizes.

• Build articulation consistency in the rhythm section (if using live combo) or match the recorded accompaniment's phrasing exactly. Singers often rush behind the beat in blues; locking in early prevents this drift.
• Isolate the jazz harmony vocabulary by having singers listen to the SoundTrax multiple times before rehearsal. Identify where block chords sit beside more complex voicings so they understand the textural intent.
• Work backward from dynamics marked in the score. Blues repertoire relies on subtle dynamic shaping rather than broad crescendos; these restraint moments define authenticity.
• Encourage singers to feel the swing inherent in the arrangement. Have them listen to vocal jazz recordings of these songs outside of rehearsal to absorb the rhythmic language naturally.

Anchor a spring or winter concert segment that celebrates American songwriting traditions, or pair it with other pop choral selections to create a cohesive set. This works equally well as an opener that signals a lighter second half or as a closing number that leaves the audience in good spirits.

• Jazz phrasing and swing feel
• Blend and balance in block chord voicings
• Rhythmic precision with syncopation
• Stylistic interpretation beyond classical choral technique
• Working with recorded accompaniments and live instrumental ensembles