Exsultate in Seven: SAB Choral Octavo

Andy Beck has engineered a genuine pedagogical breakthrough here: he makes mixed meter feel like second nature rather than a rhythmic hurdle. The 3 + 2 + 2 structure repeats enough times that singers internalize the pattern without tedium, and the dance-like character of the melody keeps energy high throughout rehearsal. The optional soloists, trumpet part, and timpani anchor the meter while adding concert-quality sophistication, so singers feel like they're performing something genuinely ambitious, not struggling through a teaching tool.

This is pure jubilation wrapped in a dance rhythm. The melody bounces forward with infectious energy while the shifting meters create a sense of forward momentum and surprise, yet never feel chaotic. The optional descant and fanfare moments bring moments of genuine grandeur that balance the piece's playful, exultant character.

This piece works beautifully for developing singers in middle and high school choirs, particularly ensembles ready to move beyond simple duple and triple meter. It's equally suited for community and adult choirs seeking repertoire that challenges rhythmically without overwhelming musically. The SAB voicing makes it accessible to changing voice situations and mixed-level groups.

• Establish the 3 + 2 + 2 pattern physically before singing. Have singers clap or conduct the grouped beats in isolation, then layer the melody over that foundation.
• Balance the soprano descant so it shines without drowning the harmonic foundation in SAB. The glorious effect depends on clarity from all three voices.
• Anchor the timpani and rhythm section early. When the rhythmic foundation is solid, singers' confidence in the meter grows immediately, freeing them to focus on breath, blend, and expression.
• Take full advantage of the optional trumpet fanfare and recorded accompaniment. Either addition elevates the piece from rehearsal favorite to concert centerpiece.

Open a concert or festival set with this piece. Its immediate energy and uplifting character engage an audience instantly, while the optional trumpet and recorded accompaniment give you flexibility depending on your instrumental resources and venue. The contest designation makes it a smart choice for festival programming where you want a high-energy selection that showcases both your singers' musicality and their willingness to embrace rhythmic exploration.

• Reading and internalizing mixed meters (3/4 and 2/4 in a 3 + 2 + 2 pattern)
• Maintaining metric integrity while singing a flowing melody across meter changes
• Blending three-part SAB voicing with optional solo/descant lines
• Responding to rhythmic foundations (timpani and rhythm section) to anchor their own parts
• Performing with stylistic confidence in a dance-like, secular idiom