Burn (arr. Mark Brymer): SSA Choral Octavo

Mark Brymer's arrangement captures the driving energy of the original while keeping the vocal writing singable and the overall texture clean for an SSA ensemble. The pop sensibility makes it an excellent choice for choirs seeking contemporary material that doesn't sacrifice musicianship, and it bridges the gap between what students want to sing and what directors want them to sing.

Propulsive and electric. The dance beat grounds the piece while Goulding's vocal line floats above with emotional clarity, creating a tension between restraint and release that keeps singers engaged. The arrangement balances pop production aesthetics with vocal writing that rewards good technique and ensemble blend.

Choirs with intermediate to advanced singers who want contemporary repertoire with melodic substance. This works equally well for high school show choirs, college recreational singers, or competitive show choirs looking to expand beyond traditional pop standards.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the dance sections. These syncopated rhythms are what give the song its propulsive feel, so lock the ensemble on articulation before worrying about dynamics.
• Keep the upper voices bright and supported through the sustained notes. The ethereal quality of the original lives in the tone, not in pulling back volume.
• Balance your part distribution carefully in any key changes or modulations. Mark Brymer likely handles this thoughtfully, but your tenutos and dynamic shifts need to feel intentional, not accidental.
• Let the accompaniment drive the tempo. Don't let the choir drag the beat or rush the subdivisions, especially in moments where the synth energy should propel the text forward.

Place this in a contemporary pop block or as a transition piece between traditional and modern repertoire in a concert. It works particularly well in spring concerts or end-of-year showcases where you want to celebrate the full range of what your singers can do.

• Singing syncopated rhythms against a steady beat
• Maintaining blend and tone quality while performing dance-influenced material
• Interpreting electronic pop styling through live vocal performance
• Sustaining engagement with contemporary text and musical idioms