¡Cantar! (Sing!): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Althouse crafted this salsa setting to work perfectly at the 2-part level without sacrificing the genre's infectious energy. The bilingual text and straightforward melodic line make it accessible for younger or developing singers, while the rhythmic drive and Latin groove keep rehearsals engaging and performances genuinely fun. It's the kind of piece that feels like a party every time you sing it.

Vibrant and rhythmically propulsive, with the infectious bounce of authentic salsa at its core. The blend of English and Spanish creates an inviting, multicultural sound that feels contemporary and celebratory, even as the melody sits comfortably within the range of developing singers.

Directors working with developing treble choirs, middle school ensembles, or any program seeking high-energy Latin repertoire that doesn't require advanced vocal technique. This arrangement's straightforward 2-part texture and repetitive Spanish text make it ideal for choirs still building ensemble cohesion and sight-reading skills.

• Lock in the rhythmic groove early in rehearsal by establishing the clave and basic salsa rhythmic cell before layering harmonic material. Consistent pulse is what makes this style shine.
• Encourage singers to connect the Spanish phrases naturally, treating the bilingual text as one cohesive line rather than switching between two languages. Fluidity across the English and Spanish sections strengthens the overall flow.
• Take advantage of the recorded accompaniment to build confidence, especially in the opening sections where the instrumental groove sets the stylistic foundation for the singers.

Program this as a concert energizer that bridges classical and contemporary offerings, or feature it in spring pops concerts and cultural celebration events. Its stylistically authentic approach makes it equally effective as a standalone showstopper or paired with other Latin or world music selections to build a thematic set.

• Rhythmic independence and the ability to maintain steady pulse within syncopated accompaniment patterns
• Accurate articulation and phrasing of Spanish language text alongside English
• Understanding of salsa rhythmic conventions and Latin musical style
• Two-part harmonic awareness and blend in a contemporary, energetic context