I Could Write a Book Cover Image

I Could Write a Book: Choral SoundPax

$40.00 USD
$40.00 USD
Skip to product information
I Could Write a Book Cover Image
I Could Write a Book: Choral SoundPax

I Could Write a Book: Choral SoundPax

Words by Lorenz Hart, music by Richard Rodgers / arr. Darmon Meader

Item: 00-28712
makemusic Cloud badge

Need it now?

Buy Digital Version
$40.00
Shipped

One moment…

Related Items

I Could Write a Book: SoundTrax Digital Audio Download

$24.95
View

I Could Write a Book: Vocal Solo with Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

$62.00
View

I Could Write a Book: SATB Choral Octavo

$2.95
View
Description
This swinging Rodgers and Hart tune is classic vocal jazz. Includes a scat solo, which is written out or can be sung ad lib. The singers are definitely the stars here, though the arrangement can be done with a variety of accompaniments: piano alone, small instrumental combo, or full jazz ensemble. Includes parts for piano, tenor sax., 2 trumpet, trombone, rhythm.

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, I Could Write a Book: Choral SoundPax comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

Open in the Player

Jump straight in and assign it today.

Start Your Free Trial

Open this title and explore the full library in minutes.
Sample Pages

Sample Audio
No sample audio found.
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 32
UPC: 038081312569
SKU: 00-28712
Instrumentation: SoundPax

More about this title

About the Composer: Richard Rodgers

Richard Rodgers (1902-1979) stands as one of America's most prolific and versatile composers, with a career spanning over five decades and encompassing Broadway musicals, films, and concert works. His gift for memorable melody and sophisticated harmonic language made him a dominant force in musical theater, and his songs remain central to the American Songbook and continue to be recorded and performed across all musical genres.

Rodgers had an exceptional ability to write for singers of every vocal range and ability level. His compositions work equally well in classical vocal recitals, jazz interpretations, and educational settings, which is why his standards remain standard repertoire in choral programs worldwide.

Why we love this

Rodgers and Hart's "I Could Write a Book" is a sophisticated yet accessible jazz standard that gives singers genuine star moments without requiring professional vocal jazz experience. Darmon Meader's arrangement lets you build the ensemble sound gradually, from piano alone to full combo to big band, making it versatile for different performance contexts and rehearsal resources.

What to expect

The tune swings with effortless charm; there's wit and warmth in Rodgers' melody, and the scat solo gives the performance a moment of playful virtuosity. The overall effect is urbane and cool, with plenty of room for personality and musicality from your singers.

Who it's for

This arrangement works for choirs that want to explore jazz without needing trained jazz singers or an advanced instrumental ensemble. It's ideal for groups comfortable with syncopated rhythms and contemporary sound but looking for a tune with real sophistication and a touch of humor.

How to get the most out of it

  • Let the scat solo breathe. Whether your soloist sings the written notes or improvises ad lib, give them rhythmic space and allow the rhythm section to lock in underneath. This showcases what makes the tune special.
  • Balance the vocal blend carefully in the ensemble sections. The charm of this tune rests partly on how the singers sit together; make sure inner lines aren't buried by the leads.
  • Coordinate with your instrumentalists early. The recorded accompaniment and your live band need to feel like they're in conversation, not competing. Rehearse the scat solo section several times with both.
  • Keep the swing feeling relaxed and grounded. Too much tension in the rhythm section will make the band sound urgent rather than cool. Encourage your musicians to listen as much as play.

How to use it

Program this as a contrast to more serious or contemporary choral work; its classic sophistication and vocal-forward arrangement make it perfect for a concert that spans multiple genres. It also works well as a finale or encore, especially if your group is building a jazz or standards-focused set.

Skills your students will build

  • Singing swing rhythms and syncopation with precision
  • Scat singing (improvised or written interpretation)
  • Ensemble blend and balance in jazz voicing
  • Rhythmic independence from the accompaniment
  • Interpreting jazz phrasing and articulation
  • Collaboration between vocalists and instrumentalists

You May Also Like