Cante una Cancion (Sing a Song): String Bass: Choral SoundPax

The bossa nova groove gives students a taste of Latin American rhythm while keeping the vocal writing accessible and fun. Althouse has built a career on writing music that actually engages young singers, and this piece proves why: the English lyrics and straightforward piano support let the ensemble focus on locking into that infectious beat and nailing the swing feel without struggling through difficult ranges or complex harmonies.

Imagine a warm, sunny afternoon where the music moves at a gentle sway rather than a push. The bossa nova rhythm has that effortless, almost conversational quality that makes listeners want to snap their fingers, while the singable vocal lines let the choir focus on enjoying the groove rather than fighting the notes.

This works beautifully for school choirs, especially middle or high school singers building confidence in a contemporary style. The straightforward English text and easygoing accompaniment make it ideal for general music classes or smaller ensembles looking for a concert piece that feels current and engaging.

• Keep the rhythm section anchored by establishing the bossa nova pulse in rehearsal before adding vocals. Work the maracas and piano accompaniment together until they lock into that easy, lilting groove.
• Shape the vocal line with gentle phrasing rather than rigid diction. The bossa nova style rewards a more relaxed, conversational approach to the English text.
• Balance the instrumental parts (tenor sax, trumpet, trombone) so they enhance rather than overshadow the choir. These colors should feel like a small ensemble supporting the singers, not competing.
• Use the recorded accompaniment in early rehearsals to establish the tempo and groove, then gradually shift to live or a cappella sections once the choir internalizes the feel.

Program this as an energy shifter in a concert where you need something upbeat and modern between heavier repertoire. It also pairs naturally with other multicultural or secular pieces, and because it works year-round, you can pull it out whenever you need a reliable crowd-pleaser that your choir actually enjoys singing.

• Singing in a bossa nova style with proper swing feel and rhythmic precision
• Balancing vocal ensemble blend with instrumental accompaniment
• Executing lyrics with clear English diction at a relaxed tempo
• Understanding and performing Latin American musical idioms