Clap Yo' Hands (Clap Your Hands): SATB Choral Octavo
By George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin / arr. Greg Gilpin
Level: Moderate
Item: 00-PO-0004700
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Get ready for some gospel! Greg's outstanding arrangement of this solid gold Gershwin gem sings and swings in a contemporary gospel style. Greg's experience of working with Ray Boltz is evident in every aspect of this arrangement. Great Gospel!
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0004700
More about this title
About the Composer: George Gershwin
George Gershwin (1898-1937) stands as one of the most important American composers of the 20th century. His gift for melody and his ability to blend jazz idioms with traditional harmonic language created a new sound that defined an era. Works like "Rhapsody in Blue" and "An American in Paris" remain cornerstones of the concert repertoire, while his theatrical compositions, written in collaboration with his brother Ira, continue to captivate audiences across genres.
Gershwin's influence on music education extends far beyond his original compositions. His songs have been arranged countless times for every conceivable ensemble, making them accessible entry points into both jazz and classical music for students at all levels. The combination of sophistication and accessibility in his melodies makes his work ideal for choral programs seeking material that challenges singers while remaining genuinely enjoyable to perform.
Why we love this
Greg Gilpin's gospel arrangement captures the swagger and joy of this Gershwin standard while giving it genuine contemporary voice. The Grade 3 accessibility means students can focus on the groove and energy rather than wrestling with complex technique, making this an ideal choice for choirs that want to sound current without sacrificing musical substance.
What to expect
Energy and optimism radiate from this piece. The gospel arrangement transforms Gershwin's melody into something that invites movement and joy, with syncopated rhythms and warm harmonic colors that feel both familiar and fresh. Singers move from earnest swing to spirited celebration, and the overall effect is genuinely uplifting.
Who it's for
This arrangement serves choirs at the high school or early college level who have foundational ensemble skills and are ready to explore contemporary gospel style. Directors seeking repertoire that connects students to American musical traditions while sounding relevant and fun will find this especially valuable.
How to get the most out of it
- Build the rhythmic precision as a foundation. The swing and syncopation require clean ensemble attacks, so invest rehearsal time in locking the rhythmic figures before layering in interpretation.
- Let the gospel style breathe naturally from the harmonic language. Gilpin's arrangement is written to support this idiom, so encourage singers to shape phrases with the warmth and flexibility characteristic of the genre rather than performing it formally.
- If using the recorded accompaniment, rehearse with it early and often. The piano/rhythm section foundation sets the groove, and singers need to internalize that pulse to sit comfortably on top of it.
- Highlight the call-and-response moments and antiphonal sections that define gospel music. These interactions between voice parts create the genre's characteristic energy and give singers tangible musical landmarks.
How to use it
This works beautifully in spring concerts or programs celebrating American music and musical theater traditions. It pairs naturally with other Gershwin material or other jazz-influenced choral standards, and its moderate length and contemporary style make it an excellent encore or late-concert piece that sends audiences out smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Singing syncopated rhythms and swing feel in a choral context
- Understanding and interpreting gospel musical style and phrasing conventions
- Blending SATB voices within jazz-influenced harmonic progressions
- Responding to an ensemble rhythm section (using the accompaniment recording)