Lullaby of Broadway (and Forty-Second Street): SSA Choral Octavo

Jay Althouse captures the swagger and energy of these two golden-age standards without overcomplicating them for SSA voices. The arrangement opens with a nod to "Forty-Second Street" before settling into the sultry charm of "Lullaby of Broadway," giving singers material that feels both accessible and genuinely musical. Staging options and the recorded accompaniment mean you can mount a polished, stylish performance without extensive rehearsal time.

Glamorous and playful. The arrangement glides between the bright, marching-band energy of "Forty-Second Street" and the smoky, sophisticated charm of "Lullaby of Broadway." You get the theatrical sparkle of classic Hollywood without the vocal demands that would overshadow younger or less experienced ensembles.

SSA choirs looking for repertoire that appeals to audiences and singers alike. This works beautifully for concert programming, pops shows, or any setting where you want to showcase your singers' ability to interpret Broadway standards with style and maturity.

• Anchor the rhythm section with precision; these swing-era songs thrive on tight, confident ensemble timing rather than rubato.
• Shape the "Lullaby" melody with clear diction and a warm, conversational tone so the lyrical storytelling comes through over the accompaniment.
• Use the movement staging suggestions to add visual interest without letting choreography pull focus from the vocal line.
• Balance the open, jazzy harmonies by listening carefully to blend in the middle voices; they carry much of the swing feel.

Pair this with other mid-twentieth-century standards or use it as a centerpiece for a "Golden Age" concert themed around early movie musicals. The contrasting moods of the two songs within a single arrangement give you one polished selection that showcases range and style, ideal for spring or pops concerts where audiences expect recognizable, joyful material.

• Singing swing rhythms and jazz phrasing
• Balancing melody and harmony in jazz-influenced voicings
• Interpreting theatrical style with vocal clarity and precision
• Coordinating movement with singing
• Reading three-part SSA/SSAA textures with chromatic and jazz harmony