Celebration Sheet Music Preview

Celebration: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Words and music by Ronald Bell, Claydes Smith, George Brown, James Taylor, Robert Mickens, Earl Toon, Dennis Thomas, Robert Bell, and Eumir Deodato / arr. Kirby Shaw

Item: 00-PO-0003163

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$2.10

Minimum order quantity: 20 copies

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Description
One of the all-time greatest party songs ever written is now newly arranged for 2-part voices. A top seller for years, kickin' Kirby Shaw style! Don't be surprised if your audience joins in. "Wa hoo!"

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 12
SKU: 00-PO-0003163

More about this title

About the Composer: Ronald Bell

Ronald Bell is a legendary funk and R&B musician, best known as the founder and primary composer for Kool & The Gang. His work spans decades of popular music that defined the sound of party, celebration, and infectious groove. Bell's compositions have become staples of American music culture, reaching far beyond their original context into weddings, proms, sporting events, and now, choral repertoire.

Why we love this

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures all the infectious energy and singability that made this song a party favorite without requiring your singers to produce a funk section. The 2-part voicing keeps the arrangement accessible for mixed-ability choirs while maintaining the irresistible hook that makes audiences want to clap along. This is the kind of piece that reminds people why they love singing together.

What to expect

Pure jubilation. The moment that first hook lands, the room feels lighter. There's an undeniable groove underneath the vocal parts, a funky pulse that makes singers want to move and audiences want to sing along. It's celebration distilled into a few minutes of music.

Who it's for

Any choir looking to program a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that appeals to audiences across ages and musical backgrounds. This works equally well for middle school through adult choirs, whether your singers have classical training or are newer to ensemble singing.

How to get the most out of it

  • Nail the rhythmic precision in the vocal parts; this piece relies on tight, locked-in rhythm to feel right. Use the recorded accompaniment in rehearsals to help singers internalize the groove.
  • Bring clarity to the melody line so the famous hook cuts through. Even in 2-part texture, the top voice should lead.
  • Encourage genuine joy and energy from measure one. This arrangement only works if your singers commit to the celebratory spirit.
  • Balance the two parts carefully so neither drowns out the other; the lower voices provide essential rhythmic support.

How to use it

Close a concert with this and watch your audience leave smiling. It works beautifully as a finale that sends everyone out in a festive mood, or as a fun break in a longer program to reset the energy. Consider programming it near the end of a spring concert or any celebration-focused event where you want to leave the strongest possible final impression.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic precision and groove-based singing
  • Sustaining energy and diction through repetitive, catchy material
  • Part independence in 2-part harmony
  • Connecting with audience through character and joy rather than technical complexity

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