One for the Altos: SSA Choral Octavo

Althouse knows how to write for mixed ability choirs while keeping the whole room engaged, and this piece does exactly that by turning the spotlight on a voice part that rarely gets solo billing. The humor lands without ever feeling mean-spirited; it celebrates altos genuinely while delivering the kind of lighthearted fun that builds ensemble morale and gives singers permission to enjoy themselves in concert.

A warm, affectionate roast delivered with a wink and genuine appreciation. The piece radiates good humor and camaraderie, with just enough musical substance to feel rewarding rather than throwaway.

This octavo works beautifully in any mixed high school, community, or church choir with a solid alto section. It is especially valuable when you want to celebrate individual voice parts, boost morale after challenging repertoire, or program something that makes audiences smile without feeling condescending.

• Lean into the character and attitude in the text. The piece works best when singers commit to the playful tone rather than keeping it at arm's length.
• Balance the alto line prominently in the first verse so the joke lands clearly, then pull back slightly as the piece builds to let the full choir shine through.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to establish tempo and style, especially if your altos need confidence support during early rehearsals.

Plant this as a lighter moment in a concert, ideally after more serious repertoire or in a second half block devoted to showier, more entertaining pieces. It works particularly well as a penultimate selection before a grand finale, since it leaves the audience in great spirits while setting up for a strong closer.

• Singing featured solo lines within an ensemble texture
• Balancing humor and musicality in performance
• Listening to and supporting highlighted voice parts
• Managing diction and character in a lighthearted arrangement