Hold On (arr. Kirby Shaw): Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by Wilson Phillips / Arranged by Kirby Shaw
Item: 35-PK00259983
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Description
Celebrate girl power with this 1990 #1 pop hit from the group Wilson Phillips and the unique harmony-rich sound they grew up hearing their parents (The Mammas The Papas and The Beach Boys) sing. Sweet triadic harmonies and a positive message will make this a great musical experience! Available separately: SSA, ShowTrax CD. Rhythm parts available digitally (syn, gtr, b, dm). Duration: ca. 3:30.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00259983
More about this title
About the Artist: Wilson Phillips
Wilson Phillips formed in 1989 as a supergroup of three sisters whose parentage reads like a pop history textbook: Carnie and Wendy Wilson are daughters of Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, while Chynna Phillips is the daughter of John and Michelle Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas. The group's 1990 self-titled debut album became a cultural phenomenon, driven by infectious pop hooks and the sophisticated vocal blend their family legacies made possible. Their success demonstrated that the girl group tradition remained vital in contemporary pop music.
Beyond their commercial appeal, Wilson Phillips bridged generational sounds. Their arrangements drew directly from the close-harmony traditions of their parents' groups while infusing contemporary production and songwriting sensibilities. This made them particularly valuable to music educators seeking repertoire that honors vocal tradition while speaking to students through recognizable, engaging material.
Why we love this
Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures what made Wilson Phillips' originals so effective: the stacked, interlocking vocal lines that reward careful listening while remaining accessible for singers at multiple levels. Programming this piece signals that you value both contemporary songwriting and genuine vocal craftsmanship, giving students a modern pop standard with real harmonic substance beneath the hook.
What to expect
Effortless joy wrapped in sophisticated harmony. The arrangement maintains the original's infectious optimism while layering in the vocal sophistication that defined 1990s pop at its best. Singing this feels like being part of something larger than yourself, a shared commitment to both musicianship and meaning.
Who it's for
Choirs seeking contemporary repertoire with genuine harmonic complexity and a powerful, affirming message. This works for intermediate to advanced vocal programs that want to engage students through familiar source material while developing their ear for sophisticated arranging.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the triadic harmonies by having singers listen across parts rather than locking only onto their own line; the magic emerges when all three voices blend as an intentional chord rather than three independent melodies.
- Lock the feel against the rhythm section parts (even if using a click track) so the groove sits solidly in place; pop arrangements live or die on rhythmic precision and pocket.
- Let the positive message of the text shape your phrasing and dynamics; this is a song built on encouragement, so anchor every phrase in that emotional truth rather than treating it as merely upbeat.
How to use it
Schedule this for a spring concert celebrating women artists in pop and rock, or pair it with other Kirby Shaw arrangements to showcase how contemporary hits can anchor a strong second half. The positive message and recognizable melody make it an excellent closer for pops concerts or end-of-year celebrations.
Skills your students will build
- Balancing three-part harmony while maintaining individual vocal line integrity
- Hearing and singing within sustained triadic structures
- Coordinating with rhythm section parts to lock groove and pocket
- Phrasing pop music with musicality rather than rhythmic stiffness
- Interpreting text with emotional authenticity in contemporary settings