Don't Start Now (arr. Deke Sharon): SSA Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures the irresistible groove of the original while keeping the voicing lean and manageable for SSA ensembles. The song's infectious energy translates beautifully to a cappella, and the arrangement respects what made the track a hit without overcomplicating the singers' part.

Propulsive and modern, with the kind of rhythmic momentum that makes audiences sit up and listen. The arrangement maintains the original's funk underpinnings while creating clear harmonic moments that give singers concrete melodic and harmonic stakes.

Directors programming pop selections for SSA ensembles, particularly those working with younger singers who respond to current music. This works equally well for a pop concert or as a crowd pleasing novelty within a mixed seasonal program.

• Keep the rhythmic precision tight throughout. This arrangement lives in groove, not in lyrical expression, so lock the ensemble pulse before worrying about dynamic shape.
• Balance the solo line against the background voices carefully; the arrangement likely features a featured voice, so ensure that voice can cut through without the ensemble pushing back.
• Use the disco and funk DNA of the original to inform your phrasing. These idioms favor slightly pushed rhythms and crisp articulation, not a legit classical approach.

Slot this into a pop or contemporary segment to bridge accessibility and musicianship. It pairs naturally with other recent pop arrangements or can anchor a set exploring how modern hits reveal their sophisticated harmonic and rhythmic foundations.

• Maintaining rhythmic integrity in syncopated pop idioms
• Blending ensemble sound while supporting a featured solo voice
• Understanding and executing groove-based phrasing
• Reading and performing contemporary chord changes