Just One of Those Things: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Mark Hayes's arrangement respects Porter's harmonic sophistication while making the piece immediately accessible to singers at all levels. The structure itself (opening with the verse, then shifting through contrasting tempos) keeps singers engaged and gives directors a genuinely musical shape to work with, not just a single groove repeated. For groups with limited rehearsal time, this recording-backed option delivers polish without requiring a rhythm section or extensive preparation.

The opening verse glows with romantic sophistication and subtle harmonic color. When the arrangement shifts into its 2-beat and then the swinging finale, the energy transforms from intimate reflection into bright, buoyant fun. The recorded accompaniment captures that transition seamlessly, giving singers a rhythmic anchor that feels both polished and relaxed.

This arrangement works for high school choirs, college ensembles, and community groups seeking a sophisticated jazz standard with immediate appeal. Directors managing groups with mixed singing experience will find the part-writing clear and the recorded accompaniment a valuable rehearsal tool.

• Establish the 2-beat groove early in rehearsal as a contrast to the final swing section; the shift in feel is dramatic and will energize the performance if singers understand both rhythmic approaches.
• Use the recorded accompaniment in early rehearsals to anchor pitches and rhythms, then gradually reduce reliance on it to build singers' confidence and ensemble independence.
• Shape the verse opening with particular attention to Porter's lyrical phrasing and harmonic movement; this section sets the tone and deserves care before jumping into the rhythmic sections.
• Keep the swing section grounded and tight; jazz style requires precision in ensemble rhythm even more than classical singing, so lock the attack and release crisply.

Pair this with other jazz standards or American songbook pieces to create a cohesive set that showcases different arranging approaches. It also works well as a concert centerpiece or pop set finale, where its combination of sophistication and accessibility will appeal to broad audiences.

• Jazz phrasing and articulation in a swing style
• Shifting between straight rhythmic feels (2-beat) and swing
• Harmonic awareness in popular music idiom
• Singing with recorded accompaniment tracks
• Blend and balance in small-group voicing