Let's Face The Music And Dance: SATB Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures the sophisticated swing of Berlin's composition while keeping the writing clean enough for mixed choirs at various levels. The Latin and jazz inflections Shaw layers into the harmony give this standard genuine textural interest, making it feel like a fresh discovery rather than repertory obligation.

Sophisticated and playful. The piece captures the confidence and verve of 1930s showmanship, inviting singers to embrace the lyrics' message about resilience with genuine warmth rather than sentiment. There's real elegance in the harmonic movement, but nothing that feels mannered or stiff.

Choirs comfortable with swing articulation and jazz phrasing who want to perform a standard with polish and personality. This arrangement works equally well for concert programs seeking stylistic variety and for directors introducing singers to popular song interpretation.

• Keep the rhythm section locked to the recorded accompaniment; the groove depends on unwavering pocket
• Find the conversational lilt in the lyrics rather than flattening them into mechanical rhythm
• Balance brightness in the soprano line against warmth in the lower voices to prevent the piece from feeling thin

Pair this with other Berlin standards or American songbook selections to create a thematic set that showcases the evolution of American popular melody. It works beautifully as a concert closer, sending audiences out with accessible sophistication and genuine good humor.

• Jazz swing articulation and phrasing
• Harmonic reading in extended jazz voicings
• Rhythmic independence when singing against Latin rhythmic accompaniment
• Interpretation of lyrical text with personality and nuance