Down by the Riverside: 3-Part Mixed (with Opt. Staging) Choral Octavo
Arr. Jay Althouse
Item: 00-PO-0002159
$2.25
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Written exclusively for young and developing 2- and 3-part groups, this fresh, new arrangement is a quick-learn piece for your singers. The bright, driving accompaniment supports the traditional, yet pop-contemporary sounding vocals. Staging is included in the publication and on Sally's "In the Spotlight!" Video, #19803. A rousing spiritual arrangement for young and developing choirs by Jay Althouse . . . a guaranteed winner!
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Sample Audio
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
12
SKU:
00-PO-0002159
More about this title
About the Arranger: Jay Althouse
Jay Althouse studied Music Education and Music at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he later received the Distinguished Alumni award. His career in music publishing gave him eight years of experience in rights and licensing, during which he served on the Executive Board of the Music Publishers Association of America. He has since become one of the most prolific choral composers working today, with more than 800 published works performed widely across the English-speaking world.
Althouse's contributions extend beyond composition into music education resources and collaborative projects. He has co-written several children's musicals with his wife Sally K. Albrecht, compiled respected vocal solo collections, and authored instructional books including The Complete Choral Warm-up Book, Accent on Composers, Ready to Read Music, and Sixty Music Quizzes. As a member of ASCAP, he is a regular recipient of the ASCAP Special Award. He served on the board of the North Carolina Master Chorale and currently advises the Folk Art Society of America's National Board.
Why we love this
Althouse knows exactly what young, developing singers need: a piece that sounds contemporary and energetic without sacrificing accessibility or authentic spiritual roots. The bright, driving accompaniment pulls the vocals forward naturally, which means less time spent pushing for energy and more time refining musicianship. The optional staging transforms rehearsal into genuine performance preparation from day one.
What to expect
Infectious and uplifting. The traditional spiritual melody meets a bright, contemporary groove that makes you want to move. There's joy in the straightforward three-part texture; nothing gets in the way of the singers connecting with the text and each other.
Who it's for
Young and developing 2- and 3-part choirs looking for a spiritual arrangement that feels current and exciting. This piece works especially well for middle school and early high school groups still building blend and part security.
How to get the most out of it
- Let the recorded accompaniment establish the groove early in rehearsals. Young singers lock into rhythm much faster when they hear the full musical context from the first read-through.
- Emphasize the text clarity in the pop-contemporary vocal line. Even with a driving beat beneath, each word should land distinctly so the spiritual's message comes through.
- If you use the staging, introduce it after the choir is secure with the music itself. The movement should enhance the performance, not compete for attention during the learning phase.
- Keep the energy consistent across all three parts. The accompaniment's brightness can make it easy for middle voices to drop back; remind singers that their part carries equal weight in the texture.
How to use it
Program this as a concert opener or closer for a spring concert; its energy and familiarity make it a natural crowd-pleaser that sets a warm, engaging tone. It also works well in a faith-based concert or community event where both young singers and general audiences will feel invested in the music.
Skills your students will build
- Part independence in a three-part mixed texture
- Rhythmic precision with contemporary grooves
- Text projection and clarity in pop-influenced arranging
- Ensemble blend across changing voice parts
- Movement coordination with singing (if staging is incorporated)