Movin' in the Right Direction!: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Albrecht and Althouse write for middle school voices with genuine sophistication in rhythm and arrangement. The syncopated grooves feel contemporary without talking down to singers, and the message about positive choices lands naturally rather than preachy. Pairing the octavo with the choreography option gives you flexibility to shape the performance to your ensemble's strengths and comfort level.

Energetic and optimistic, with syncopated rhythms that invite movement and collaboration. The melody sits in a friendly range while the groove underneath feels current and alive, creating the sensation of a choir that's genuinely having fun making music together.

This piece suits middle school and early high school choirs seeking repertoire with contemporary appeal and a positive message students actually connect with. It works equally well for groups performing their first rock-influenced arrangement and for experienced ensembles wanting an accessible crowd-pleaser with real rhythmic engagement.

• Lock the syncopated rhythms early in rehearsal by clapping the part against the recorded accompaniment; isolate any spots where the vocal line fights against the groove.
• Layer the choreography gradually if you're using the DVD resource. Start with the recorded track and basic blocking before adding full movement to preserve ensemble unity.
• Keep the energy grounded in the rhythm section feel. Encourage singers to think "percussion player" rather than "soloist" so the syncopation stays tight.
• Balance the two-part writing so the lower voices anchor the groove while the upper voices sit clearly on top. The recorded accompaniment reveals the separation you're aiming for.

Save this for a spring concert finale or use it to open a program with infectious energy and audience connection. It pairs well alongside more traditional repertoire as a palate cleanser or as the anchor of a thematic set exploring youth voice and positive peer messaging.

• Syncopated rhythm reading and execution in two-part writing
• Maintaining individual lines while supporting an ensemble groove
• Coordinating vocal production with physical movement
• Ensemble blend and balance in contemporary choral idioms