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Rhythm Song: 2-Part Choral Octavo

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Rhythm Song: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Rhythm Song: 2-Part Choral Octavo

By Kirby Shaw

Item: 00-35868
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Description
Kirby's hip style rocks from start to finish in this kickin' choral sung entirely on scat syllables. As the title suggests, the rhythm (often syncopated) is the focus, while the sonorities are intuitive.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Choral Designs
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 8
UPC: 038081423104
SKU: 00-35868

More about this title

About the Composer: Kirby Shaw

Kirby Shaw

Kirby Shaw's influence extends across North America and Europe, where he has led workshops and clinics in 45 states and countries including Canada, Australia, Sweden, Italy, and Germany. A graduate of San Jose State University (Music Education and Choral Composition) and the University of Washington (DMA in Choral Conducting), Shaw taught in California public schools before establishing the acclaimed COS Vocal Jazz Ensemble at College of the Siskiyous. He later directed similar programs at Colorado State University and the University of Missouri at Kansas City, and currently directs the Jefferson State Choral Coalition at Southern Oregon University.

Shaw has studied jazz vocal technique directly with Bobby McFerrin, Mark Murphy, Chris Calloway, Al Jarreau, and Jon Hendricks, the last of whom praised his scatting ability. With more than 2500 choral compositions and arrangements in print and nearly 20 million copies sold worldwide, Shaw's output has earned him multiple ASCAP awards. He is also a member of Just 4 Kicks, a jazz-focused a cappella quartet, and has produced hundreds of educational recordings alongside five college-university albums and two solo projects. His recent work includes a commission from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Why we love this

Shaw's scat-based approach sidesteps the need for a text entirely, letting singers focus purely on rhythmic precision and ensemble blend without worrying about diction. The syncopated writing keeps students engaged while remaining accessible at the 2-part level, making it an energetic choice for choirs looking to build rhythmic confidence without extensive technical demands. Its infectious groove rewards both rehearsal investment and live performance.

What to expect

Infectious and propulsive, Rhythm Song bounces forward with syncopated momentum while the scat syllables create a vocal percussion effect. The writing feels contemporary and playful, inviting singers to enjoy the pure physicality of ensemble rhythm-making without the weight of narrative meaning.

Who it's for

2-part choirs seeking energetic, text-free repertoire that emphasizes rhythm and groove over technical complexity. This piece works well for middle school through adult ensembles with some choral experience and rhythmic readiness.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock in the groove early. This piece lives and dies by rhythmic cohesion, so establish a steady internal pulse during the first read-through and maintain it relentlessly throughout rehearsals.
  • Keep the scat syllables light and articulate. Treat them as percussion colors, not as sung text; clarity matters more than volume.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment during early rehearsals to help sections internalize their rhythmic lines against the full arrangement.
  • Balance energy with control. The hip style invites enthusiasm, but precision in syncopated passages will feel more satisfying than simply being loud.

How to use it

Program this as a dynamic opener or interlude to shift the energy in a concert, especially alongside more traditional pieces. Its accessibility makes it ideal for mixed-ability festival performances or community choral events where audience engagement matters as much as technical refinement.

Skills your students will build

  • Syncopated rhythm reading and execution
  • Scat syllable articulation and clarity
  • Ensemble rhythmic lock and internal pulse awareness
  • Two-part independence in rhythmic contexts

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