Dashing Away With The Smoothing Iron (arr. John Leavitt): SAB Choral Octavo

Leavitt's setting transforms a traditional folk song into something genuinely engaging without losing the tune's charm. The SAB voicing sits naturally for mixed ensembles, and the five-page length means you're getting a complete, musically satisfying arrangement rather than something skeletal. Directors appreciate that this works equally well as a contest selection or a program opener because it has real character.

A folk melody with spring in its step and genuine warmth. The arrangement captures the practical humor embedded in the song's subject matter while maintaining a straightforward, almost conversational musical tone.

SAB choirs of all levels will find this accessible and rewarding. It works for high school mixed choirs, community ensembles, and collegiate groups looking for lighter programming that still holds musical weight.

• Establish the rhythmic energy early in rehearsal. The title suggests motion, so avoid letting the piece settle into a trudge; maintain a sense of purpose and forward momentum from the first run-through.
• Balance the three parts by listening for the alto line. In SAB writing, the middle voice often disappears, so give it deliberate attention during sectional work and full rehearsals.
• Treat any rhythmic quirks or syncopation as part of the tune's personality rather than obstacles. Leavitt's arrangements typically honor the folk idiom, so lean into them.

This is ideal for festival or contest contexts where you want something that connects with the audience immediately. It also pairs well as a lighter companion piece alongside a more demanding work, giving your singers and listeners a moment of clarity and directness.

• Singing three-part harmony with clear voice independence
• Maintaining rhythmic integrity in folk-idiom arrangements
• Blending articulation across mixed choir voicings
• Interpreting historical folk material with contemporary arranging techniques