Heathens (arr. Frank de Vreeze): SSAATB Choral Octavo

Frank de Vreeze's arrangement captures the propulsive energy and darkly introspective mood of the original without losing the contemporary edge that makes this song meaningful to young singers. The SSAATB voicing provides rich harmonic possibilities while remaining accessible for mixed choirs seeking repertoire that feels authentic to student tastes. Programming a Twenty One Pilots arrangement signals that your choir values the music that actually moves your singers.

Unsettling and hypnotic, with an undercurrent of tension that mirrors the original's exploration of social alienation and finding belonging. The arrangement balances darker harmonic territory with moments of brightness, creating an emotional landscape that feels honest rather than sugar-coated.

Choirs with singers in grades 9 and up who want contemporary repertoire that feels personally relevant rather than obligatory. Directors working with mixed ensembles or advanced SSA/SSAA groups who are looking to expand beyond traditional choral canon without sacrificing musicality.

• Emphasize the rhythmic precision in the opening sections; even slight drag in the ensemble rhythm undermines the song's intensity.
• Balance the lead vocal line against background parts carefully so the emotional journey stays front and center rather than getting buried in texture.
• Experiment with dynamic contrast between verse and chorus to build the track's mounting tension without waiting until the final moments.
• Record a quick rehearsal run and listen back for clarity of text; pop arrangements thrive on crisp diction that projects personality.

Consider this for a contemporary pop choral set or a concert focused on student-selected repertoire. The song's introspective quality makes it work well alongside other modern pieces that speak to adolescent experiences, or as a compelling contrast within a more eclectic program.

• Rhythmic independence across multiple vocal lines in contemporary pop idiom
• Singing with stylistic authenticity in rock/alternative genre context
• Vocal percussion and rhythmic spoken elements
• Building emotional narrative through dynamic control and phrasing
• Working with extended vocal ranges in non-traditional choral voicings