It's Still Rock And Roll To Me (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Roger Emerson's 2-part voicing opens this beloved Joel anthem to younger or developing singers without sacrificing the song's identity. The arrangement captures the track's relentless energy and conversational wit while staying manageable for singers still building their range and confidence. It's the kind of contemporary pop song that actually engages students because they already know it.

The piece carries Joel's signature blend of conversational wit and rock-solid groove. Singers feel the propulsive energy underneath, anchored by a melody that feels almost inevitable once you hear it. It's energetic without demanding technical gymnastics, familiar without feeling stale.

This arrangement suits middle school through early high school choirs, especially ensembles exploring contemporary pop alongside traditional repertoire. It works equally well for community choirs wanting accessible material that audiences recognize immediately. Any director seeking a confident, singable arrangement of a universally known song will find this hits the mark.

• Keep the rhythmic pulse driving throughout. This song lives in forward momentum, so resist the temptation to let phrases drag or sag at their endings.
• Shape the vocal line to match the conversational tone of the lyrics. Joel's original phrasing feels natural and speech-like, not theatrical, so encourage singers to articulate clearly without oversinging.
• Balance the two parts carefully during the sections where they move independently. The lower voices shouldn't disappear, but the top line carries the primary melody.
• Pay attention to dynamics as a storytelling tool. The subtle shifts from verse to chorus create interest without requiring drastic changes in volume.

Consider pairing this with other Joel arrangements or contemporary pop selections for a concert that connects with audiences beyond traditional classical settings. The 11-page length and 2-part voicing make it ideal for a program that builds confidence before tackling more demanding choral works. It also serves as an excellent showcase for students who need an engaging introduction to what choral singing can offer.

• Maintaining rhythmic precision across a full-length pop arrangement
• Singing pop melody with clear diction and natural phrasing
• Part independence in a 2-part texture
• Sustaining energy and character across multiple repetitions of a chorus
• Approaching contemporary music with the same musicality applied to classical repertoire