Eye of the Tiger: SSA Choral Octavo

This octavo taps into genuine student enthusiasm without sacrificing musicality. Eric Van Cleave's arrangement respects the original's energy while making it genuinely singable for developing treble voices, and having instrumental parts available means you can build a fuller sound if your resources allow.

Driving and propulsive, with the relentless forward momentum that made the original a stadium staple. The arrangement captures the defiant spirit of the source material while keeping the focus on clean vocal execution and ensemble blend.

Choirs with treble or mixed voices looking for a contemporary piece that generates real excitement in rehearsal and performance. This works especially well for groups comfortable with SSA voicing and wanting repertoire that connects with students' own musical world.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the opening unison section; the groove depends on locking the syllables together with the backing track.
• Shape the dynamic arch carefully through the verses so the chorus feels like a genuine payoff rather than just turning up the volume.
• Let the recorded accompaniment drive the tempo and energy; resist the urge to slow down or soften during the bridge.

Program this alongside other contemporary or pop-influenced pieces to create a concert set that reflects your singers' musical interests. It works particularly well as a closing number or as part of a thematic program centered on iconic film music or 1980s anthems.

• Sustaining energetic rhythmic drive across multiple phrases
• Maintaining focus and blend during unison sections
• Balancing ensemble sound within SSA texture
• Responding to recorded accompaniment cues and tempo
• Executing sharp dynamic contrasts between verses and chorus