Feeling Good (Arr. Rick Hein): Choral Octavo

Rick Hein's arrangement captures the soulful swagger of Nina Simone's version while making it singable for mixed ensembles. The chart respects the song's sophisticated harmonic language without overcomplicating it, letting singers connect with the assertive optimism at the heart of "Feeling Good." This is feel-good repertoire that actually requires musicianship to pull off.

Assertive, confident, and buoyant. The song pulses with the kind of quiet triumph that comes from personal conviction. Harmonically warm with sophisticated chord movement, it rewards careful listening and feels immediately contemporary even though it's from 1965.

This arrangement suits mixed choirs looking to expand beyond classical or sacred repertoire while maintaining musical credibility. It works for concert groups wanting a contemporary piece with genuine substance, and for directors who want students to experience the distinct demands of soul-inflected ensemble singing.

• Commit to the rhythmic drive from the opening bars. This isn't a ballad; it has momentum and attitude. Lock the ensemble into a groove mentality rather than thinking "choral precision" alone.
• Shape the melody with conversational phrasing rather than formal operatic line. The song gains energy from a conversational, almost spoken quality in key moments.
• Balance supporting harmonies to let the soloists breathe. The arrangement likely features solo or small group moments that need clarity against fuller textures.
• Mine the lyrics for character. "Feeling good" is an earned statement, not a generic sentiment. The emotional arc should be audible in how your ensemble approaches each section.

Place this in a program moment where you want to shift energy and mood, perhaps following a set of classical or sacred pieces. It pairs well with other twentieth century popular song arrangements and gives audiences permission to hear your ensemble in a different light. This is also excellent material for a casual concert, community performance, or even a music theater showcase.

• Phrasing within a groove-based harmonic language
• Blend and balance across divided ensemble textures
• Lyrical interpretation and emotional authenticity
• Rhythmic precision without losing conversational quality
• Navigating jazz and soul harmonic movement