Don't Fence Me In (arr. Jane Edwardson): SAB Choral Octavo

Jane Edwardson's arrangement captures the spirit of Porter's original without sacrificing the tune's swagger and directness. SAB voicing opens this standard to mixed choirs that might otherwise shy away from four-part writing, and the three-page length makes it realistic for groups building their pop repertoire alongside classical works.

Breezy and confident, with just enough harmonic color to keep things interesting beneath a melody that refuses to be contained. The tune bounces with a kind of musical swagger, inviting singers to enjoy the playfulness of Porter's conceit.

Treble-heavy choirs, mixed ensembles building their show tune collection, and groups seeking a pop standard that doesn't require instrumental arrangement beyond what's already provided. Strong enough for concert programming but accessible enough for intermediate sight-readers.

• Anchor the middle voice; the alto line sits comfortably but needs enough support to let the soprano soar and the bass land solidly
• Match the rhythmic energy of the recorded accompaniment without rushing; Porter's syncopation works only when the ensemble stays locked to the groove
• Shape the lyrics for legibility and humor. Porter's language is conversational, so treat phrasing like speech that happens to be sung

Pair this with other mid-century American songbook entries for a pop concert segment, or tuck it into a spring show as a palate cleanser between heavier classical selections. Its three pages and straightforward arrangement make it useful as a morale-building piece mid-rehearsal block.

• Singing syncopated rhythms against straight accompaniment
• Managing blend in three-part voicing where soprano and alto sit close together
• Lyrical articulation and diction in American English
• Following a singer-friendly melody that sits naturally in the middle voice for SAB