Jet Set (from the musical Catch Me If You Can): SAB Choral Octavo

Eric Van Cleave's arrangement captures the high-octane energy of the original while tailoring the voicing and instrumental color specifically for SAB choirs. The tight harmonies and groove-based accompaniment create that contemporary show choir feel without sacrificing the polish and theatrical presence that makes Shaiman's music distinctive. Your singers will feel the propulsive rhythm driving the piece while the relatively accessible three-part voicing keeps the focus on ensemble cohesion and rhythmic precision.

Jet Set crackles with movement and forward momentum. The piece evokes globetrotting glamour and youthful exuberance, driven by an infectious groove that feels both contemporary and theatrical. Your singers will inhabit the world of luxury travel and adventure while navigating tight ensemble writing that rewards precision and rhythmic confidence.

Show choirs and contemporary pop choral ensembles looking for material with genuine Broadway pedigree and built-in energy. The SAB voicing makes it accessible to developing choirs while the arrangement's sophistication and theatrical context appeal to more experienced groups seeking repertoire with style and substance.

• Lock the rhythm section early in rehearsal. The groove depends on precise coordination between the vocal lines and the instrumental accompaniment, so establish that pocket before layering in melodic details.
• Shape the phrasing around the harmonic rhythm rather than lyrical phrasing alone. This keeps the arrangement feeling tight and contemporary rather than ballad-like, even during sustained moments.
• Balance the three parts so the top line can soar without drowning out the harmonic support underneath. SAB writing can easily tip into top-heavy sounds if the altos and basses don't anchor the chord quality.
• Use the recorded accompaniment in early rehearsals to establish groove and energy, then gradually reduce it as your singers internalize the harmonic and rhythmic foundation.

Program this as an opener or mid-set energizer in a concert featuring a mix of show and popular music. Its theatrical context makes it ideal for spring musicals or end-of-year concerts where you want a contemporary piece with Broadway credibility. The piece also works well in showcase programs that celebrate musical theatre repertoire beyond standard classical choral selections.

• Rhythmic precision in syncopated, groove-based writing
• Part independence and harmonic listening within three-part SAB texture
• Contemporary vocal production and articulation appropriate to pop-musical style
• Phrasing musicality that balances rhythmic drive with lyrical shape
• Ensemble blend while maintaining individual line clarity