Girls Chase Boys: SSA Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson captures the playful, conversational tone of Michaelson's original in an arrangement that sits comfortably for SSA voices while retaining the song's infectious charm. The piece gives singers a modern pop sensibility to sink their teeth into without requiring a full band, and the clever lyrics keep rehearsals energized.

The piece sparkles with conversational warmth and gentle humor. It has the quality of overhearing a candid moment between friends, set to a melody that lodges itself in your ear after just one hearing.

This octavo works for middle school through adult choirs looking to program contemporary pop with substance. It appeals to singers who want to perform current music without sacrificing musical depth, and it connects with audiences who know Michaelson's work.

• Keep the rhythm tight and conversational; this song lives in the space between sing-song and natural speech rhythm. Lock in with the accompaniment early.
• Emphasize the storytelling in Michaelson's lyrics so the humor lands. The vocal lines should feel like singing dialogue, not operatic phrasing.
• Balance blend with clarity in the upper voices, especially when lines overlap. Each part should remain audible even within the harmonic texture.
• Let the arrangement breathe during accompaniment breaks. Resist the urge to sustain or overdrive; the space is part of the song's energy.

Pair this with other contemporary pop arrangements to create a modern section in a mixed concert, or feature it as a warmup piece that builds ensemble confidence through its approachable style. It also works well in youth choir showcases and community concerts where accessibility matters.

• Rhythmic conversational phrasing in contemporary pop idiom
• Blending mixed voicing while maintaining textural clarity
• Interpretation of humor and storytelling through vocal delivery
• Coordination with rhythm section and accompaniment tracks