Ever Fallen In Love (arr. Craig McLeish): TTBB Choral Octavo

Craig McLeish captures the wry charm and melodic hooks of this Buzzcocks classic while crafting a choral arrangement that actually serves the material rather than overcomplicating it. The TTBB voicing fits comfortably in male voices without sacrificing the song's emotional core, and this octavo length keeps rehearsal time reasonable for a rock-derived piece that thrives on tightness and energy.

Clever and conversational, with an undercurrent of genuine longing beneath the sharp lyrics. The arrangement preserves the Buzzcocks' knack for making emotional vulnerability sound defiant rather than sentimental, creating a piece that feels modern even decades after its original release.

Choirs seeking repertoire that speaks to male singers' interests in rock and contemporary music without asking them to sing parody arrangements of pop hits. This works for high school and college programs looking to expand beyond traditional choral genres and connect with student sensibilities.

• Nail the rhythmic precision from measure one. This arrangement likely inherits the Buzzcocks' tight, almost mechanical attack; sloppy ensemble rhythms will deflate the song's wit.
• Shape the melody with conversational phrasing rather than operatic legit. Treat it like you're telling someone something clever at a party, not delivering a proclamation.
• Balance the harmonic support so soloists or leads aren't buried. Male choral voicing can easily muddy if all four parts sing at the same dynamic level.

Pair this with other contemporary or rock-influenced choral works to frame a concert segment that shows choral music's range. It also serves as an excellent ice-breaker in rehearsals where singers have been grinding through classical repertoire; audiences respond warmly to arrangements that honor the original without apology.

• Rhythmic precision in syncopated pop/rock contexts
• Stylistic singing in contemporary idioms
• Harmonic awareness across four TTBB parts
• Ensemble balance with clear melodic lines