Come Follow The Band: SAB Choral Octavo

Brymer's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original while crafting parts that sit naturally in the SAB range. The voicing gives every section meaningful material rather than relegating anyone to accompaniment duty, making this equally rewarding whether you're conducting a 20-voice or 80-voice ensemble.

Bright and celebratory. The piece radiates warmth and optimism, inviting singers to move with genuine enthusiasm rather than forced energy. There's a quality of gathering and inclusion built into the arrangement that resonates with ensemble singers.

This arrangement works well for middle school through adult community choirs seeking uplifting secular material with solid three-part writing. The 14-page length and straightforward harmonic language make it accessible without being thin or simplistic.

• Establish a clear sense of forward motion from the opening. This tune thrives on rhythmic precision, so lock the ensemble on the pulse during early rehearsals before layering in the expressive elements.
• Balance the soprano and alto lines when they diverge. Brymer often crafts interesting counterpoint that vanishes if one voice covers the other.
• Bring out any rhythmic interplay between the three parts. Mark those moments in rehearsal where parts trade figures or complement each other rhythmically for textural clarity.

Slot this into a spring or fall concert as a high-energy lift. It pairs naturally alongside other uplifting secular pieces in a program that builds momentum, or works as a closer when you want the audience and singers to leave the concert feeling buoyant.

• Three-part harmonic independence (maintaining individual lines while supporting ensemble blend)
• Rhythmic accuracy in concert tempo
• Dynamic control and shaping within sustained phrases
• Part independence when lines diverge or move in contrary motion