Old Time Rock Roll: TBB Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's arrangement strips this rock staple down to its essential groove and energy while keeping it accessible for developing choirs. It's the rare pop arrangement that sounds authentically rockin' without requiring pyrotechnics or an exhausted rhythm section.

Pure kinetic energy wrapped in a deceptively simple package. The arrangement captures that unmistakable late-night radio swagger of the original, complete with sing-along moments that audiences remember from the first note.

Directors programming pops concerts, spring showcases, or any concert needing a crowd pleaser that still challenges young singers to nail rhythmic precision and rock attitude. Works equally well for skilled middle school choirs or high school groups looking for repertoire that's fun without sacrificing musicality.

• Lock the drum groove early. This piece lives or dies by the pocket; once your percussionists and bass lock in, the whole choir sits into the pocket naturally.
• Keep the dynamic level consistent through the verses. Resist the urge to crescendo into the chorus; let the harmonic density and rhythmic intensity do the lifting instead.
• Emphasize the articulation on repeated figures, especially in the backing vocals. Crisp consonants on 'ay' and 'oh' sounds give the arrangement its swagger.

Place this in the second half of a concert to reset the room's energy after a heavier work, or use it as a finale if you're programming a lighter, entertainment-focused set. It pairs well with other 1970s and 1980s rock arrangements.

• Rhythmic precision in syncopated rock patterns
• Balancing homophonic and call-and-response textures
• Sustaining energy through repetition
• Singing with authentic stylistic inflection in a contemporary idiom