Ghostbusters (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Emerson captures the infectious groove of the original while keeping the voicing straightforward enough that younger or less experienced singers can actually enjoy performing it rather than struggle through it. The arrangement respects the source material without sacrificing the fun factor that makes students want to sing pop music in the first place.

Energetic and instantly recognizable, with the kind of melodic confidence that comes from the source material. The arrangement gives both parts something to do rhythmically so neither line feels like mere accompaniment.

Middle school and early high school choirs looking for contemporary material that bridges the gap between pop and choral music. This works especially well for ensembles still building confidence with two-part writing and wanting something with immediate appeal.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the opening hook. Lock the attack together as if you're all singing the same person's part, not two separate lines.
• Let the bass line sit confidently underneath the melody. Part II singers should feel the groove in their part, not just hold supporting notes.
• Balance the iconic refrain so the melody cuts through without the lower voices fading back. It's the moment everyone recognizes.

Slot this into a fall concert or Halloween event where it can lift the energy of the second half. It also serves as a palate cleanser between more serious repertoire, giving singers and audiences a collective moment of ease.

• Singing syncopated rhythms with melodic lines
• Maintaining rhythmic independence in a two-part texture
• Executing clean sectional attacks and releases
• Balancing melody and harmony in popular music contexts