Let's Dance: Choral SoundPax

Eric Van Cleave's arrangement captures the infectious energy and layered vocal textures of Bowie's original without sacrificing singability. The stacked harmonies do exactly what they promise—they replace the synth and horn lines of the recording with human voices, giving your choir the chance to become the rhythm section and horn section simultaneously. This is one of those rare pop arrangements that sounds both contemporary and achievable for a motivated ensemble.

Funky, propulsive, and irresistibly danceable. The arrangement channels the original's synth-and-horn production through vocal harmony, creating a sound that is simultaneously groovy and intricately layered. It's playful and energetic without ever feeling trivial.

Show choirs, pop ensembles, and advanced high school or college choirs looking to program contemporary pop with real arranging sophistication. This works equally well as a concert closer or a crowd-pleasing moment in a mixed repertoire show. Any ensemble with solid blend and the ability to handle tight harmonies will find this rewarding.

• Lock the rhythmic precision of the bass line and kick drum pattern with your rhythm section first. The pocket is everything in this groove; once it's solid, the rest of the arrangement clicks into place.
• Balance the harmonic layers so that the top line stays clear and the foundational harmonies support rather than bury it. Van Cleave's voicings are tight, so blend carefully without sacrificing definition.
• Lean into the retro '80s production style. The arrangement calls for that sparkly, synth-driven aesthetic, so approach the diction and tone with intentional brightness rather than classical warmth.
• Bring choreography into rehearsal early. Even simple, unified movement during sections with harmonic stacks will reinforce the ensemble cohesion the arrangement demands and will engage your performers.

Program this as a concert highlight or as a bridge between classical and contemporary repertoire. It pairs well with other pop or secular choral works and works beautifully in concert programs that aim to showcase your choir's range and style. The built-in visual and kinetic energy also makes it ideal for any concert that benefits from a high-energy moment.

• Singing tight, interlocking vocal harmonies with clear individual line definition
• Maintaining rhythmic precision in syncopated, groove-based music
• Balancing multiple harmonic layers so the top line remains audible
• Integrating movement and choreography with choral singing
• Approaching contemporary pop music with vocal technique and musical intention