Carl Strommen shows his expert knowledge of the classroom as well as the performance arena with his accessible version of this memorable tune. The accompaniment track makes this piece come alive! You can bet that everyone will be happy when this piece is performed!
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Series:Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:Alfred Music
Page Count:12
SKU:00-PO-0006751
More about this title
About the Composer: Harold Arlen
Harold Arlen (1905-1986) composed some of Broadway's most enduring melodies, with a gift for writing memorable tunes that bridge popular song and theater music. His catalog includes "Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," and dozens of standards that continue to anchor the American songbook. Arlen's harmonic language blends jazz idioms with Broadway sophistication, making his songs both accessible and harmonically rich for students to explore.
Why we love this
Carl Strommen's arrangement captures the infectious optimism of this Broadway classic while keeping the part-writing clean and singable for mixed voices. The recorded accompaniment lifts the energy immediately, giving students the satisfaction of performing a recognizable hit from day one rather than waiting months for polish. This is the kind of piece that builds genuine enthusiasm for choral singing because students know and love the tune.
What to expect
Pure optimism in song form. The melody bounces along with an irresistible lift, supported by harmonies that feel both sophisticated and singable. Performers and audiences alike will feel the warmth and humor built into every phrase.
Who it's for
Any mixed-voice choir looking for an accessible yet genuinely fun piece that audiences recognize immediately. This works especially well for middle school or early high school choirs, as well as community and adult groups who want to program a Broadway standard without heavy technical demands.
How to get the most out of it
Anchor the rhythm section on the accompaniment track; let it set the groove so singers can focus on blend and balance rather than fighting to stay together.
Emphasize the lyrical phrasing in the verse to create contrast with the energetic refrain; Arlen's melody tells a story, so shape it accordingly.
Balance the three parts carefully in unison passages; SAB voicing can muddy quickly if one part oversings.
Lighten the articulation during the uptempo sections to match the joyful character of the text.
How to use it
Schedule this as a spring or end-of-year concert opener to set an upbeat tone, or pair it with other Broadway selections for a themed program. The 12-page score and recorded accompaniment make it an excellent choice for students developing confidence in contemporary choral repertoire.
Skills your students will build
Singing Broadway-style phrasing and articulation
Balancing three-part mixed voicing in jazz-influenced harmonies
Responding to and performing with recorded accompaniment
Connecting lyrical intent to musical expression
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