Get Happy (arr. Abi Moore): SATB Choral Octavo

Abi Moore's arrangement captures the infectious optimism of this Gershwin classic while keeping the voicing accessible for mixed choirs without simplifying the harmonic content. The piece sits comfortably for high school and community ensembles, yet offers enough musical substance to engage singers who want to explore genuine jazz harmonies and rhythmic nuance.

Pure optimism tempered with sophistication. The Gershwin melody shines through Abi Moore's arrangement with a buoyant, conversational energy; there's wit in the harmonic movement and real warmth in the way the voices can blend and separate.

High school, college, and community choirs looking for a modern popular arrangement with genuine musical substance. Directors who want to program something recognizable and joyful without sacrificing harmonic interest or vocal development.

• Isolate the rhythm section (altos and basses) in rehearsal to lock the swing feel before layering sopranos and tenors; the groove is the foundation everything else sits on.
• Encourage sopranos to sing through the high passages with ease rather than pushing for volume; this song lives in character and lightness.
• Balance the ensemble so you hear all four parts distinctly, especially when the inner voices carry harmonic motion in the verses.
• Let the recorded accompaniment set your tempo and style, but rehearse unaccompanied to ensure the choir owns the tuning and rhythmic security.

This works as an excellent closer for concerts celebrating Great American Songbook material, or as a refreshing contemporary selection in a program mixing jazz standards with classical repertoire. It also serves well in pops concerts, community engagement events, or any setting where you want the audience to leave smiling.

• Swing rhythm and jazz phrasing
• Balancing four-part counterpoint with a strong melodic line
• Hearing and singing jazz harmonies (ii-V-I progressions, secondary dominants)
• Maintaining vowel unity while sustaining character and expression
• Responding to a recorded accompaniment with rhythmic precision