Fascinating Rhythm: TTBB Choral Octavo

Mark Hayes captures the irrepressible energy of this Gershwin standard while respecting its architecture. What sets this arrangement apart is how it layers contrasting rhythmic ideas (Latin feels, swing sections) without overwhelming the harmonic core that makes the song memorable. For men's choirs seeking a piece that entertains an audience while demanding genuine musicianship, this delivers on both counts.

Irresistible forward motion, syncopated and clever. The piece bounces between Latin urgency and swung relaxation, its melodic hooks lodging immediately in the ear while the harmonic underpinnings stay rich and slightly unexpected. It's the feeling of a song that wants to move you, both rhythmically and emotionally.

Men's choirs (TTBB) looking for repertoire that balances accessibility with genuine musical substance. This works well for groups comfortable with syncopated rhythms and jazz-inflected harmony, and for singers who enjoy the energy of popular standards arranged with orchestral sophistication.

• Lock the Latin rhythm section (bass and baritone lines) into a tight, syncopated groove before adding the upper voices; this rhythmic foundation makes the swing sections land with impact.
• Shape the melodic contour dynamically rather than holding a single volume level; Gershwin's melodies breathe, and small dynamic shifts reveal the voice leading underneath.
• The recorded accompaniment is valuable for learning, but challenge your ensemble to internalize harmonic movement so the singing feels grounded in the chord progression, not dependent on playback.
• Articulation matters tremendously in the uptempo passages; crisp consonants on the Latin sections and relaxed phrasing in the swing feel create stylistic clarity.

Pair this with other Gershwin or Golden Age standards to build a concert around American popular music; its accessibility and theatrical appeal make it an excellent anchor for a pop choral set. The stylistic variety within the piece itself (Latin to swing) also lets you demonstrate your ensemble's rhythmic sophistication and versatility within a single selection.

• Reading and executing Latin rhythm patterns in a choral context
• Singing syncopated rhythms with precision while maintaining phrase shape
• Balancing syllabic articulation with swing feel conventions
• Locking ensemble rhythm when multiple rhythmic feels occur simultaneously
• Interpreting jazz-influenced harmony through voice leading awareness