I Could Write a Book: SATB Choral Octavo
Words by Lorenz Hart, music by Richard Rodgers / arr. Darmon Meader
Item: 00-PO-0002303
$2.95
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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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.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
16
SKU:
00-PO-0002303
More about this title
About the Composer: Richard Rodgers
Richard Rodgers (1902-1979) composed some of the most enduring melodies in American musical theater, creating songs that transcend their original theatrical contexts to become jazz standards and concert repertoire. His gift for memorable, singable lines and sophisticated harmonic language made him an ideal collaborator with lyricist Lorenz Hart; together they wrote the songs that defined an era of American musical comedy.
For educators, Rodgers' catalog offers an exceptional resource: his melodies are instantly recognizable, harmonically rich enough to engage serious musicians, yet accessible enough for developing singers. Songs like "I Could Write a Book" demonstrate why his work remains central to jazz and popular music curricula decades after their composition.
Why we love this
Darmon Meader's arrangement captures the playful sophistication of this standard while giving your singers genuine jazz vocabulary to explore. The written-out scat solo offers security for singers new to jazz idiom, but the option to improvise keeps the piece fresh across multiple performances and allows individual singers to shine.
What to expect
Smart, sophisticated, and playful. The tune bounces with romantic wit, and Meader's voicing keeps things fleet and conversational rather than heavy. There's genuine jazz swing here, with room for individual personality to emerge through the scat solo.
Who it's for
Any SATB choir with experience in popular or jazz styles, from high school show choirs to community and college ensembles. Singers need secure pitch control and comfort with jazz articulation, but the arrangement doesn't require advanced jazz training.
How to get the most out of it
- The scat solo is a chance to build jazz phrasing into your choir's sound. Even if you perform it as written initially, encourage singers to listen to recordings and find the swing feel in their articulation and rhythm.
- Consider your accompaniment choice as a character decision. A solo piano arrangement creates intimacy; adding a rhythm section transforms the piece into a full jazz number. Match your choice to your concert context and available musicians.
- Lock the rhythm section (if you have one) into a conversation with the scat soloist rather than simply supporting from behind. Jazz accompaniment thrives on call-and-response energy.
How to use it
Program this as a palate-cleansing moment in a concert that mixes classical choral work with popular styles. Its theatrical energy and humor make it ideal for spring pops concerts, jazz-focused programs, or multi-genre galas where you want to showcase vocal agility and contemporary style.
Skills your students will build
- Jazz articulation and swing phrasing
- Reading and performing scat syllables
- Secure SATB voice leading in jazz voicings
- Improvisation fundamentals (if performing the scat ad lib)
- Coordinate with rhythm section accompaniment