Right Now: SSA Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures the infectious energy and forward momentum of the original without sacrificing singability for treble voices. The combo parts provide authentic rock texture while keeping the focus on the vocals, creating an arrangement that feels both true to the source material and genuinely rewarding to perform. Programming this gives your choir access to a song audiences actually know and love, which builds genuine engagement from both singers and listeners.

Unstoppable forward motion wrapped in pure joy. The arrangement pulses with the swagger of classic rock, supported by combo grooves that lock the whole ensemble into a shared groove. It's the sonic equivalent of throwing open a door and stepping into possibility.

Any choir with access to a rock combo or who can use the recorded accompaniment to authentic effect. This works beautifully for middle school through adult choirs seeking repertoire that energizes singers and audiences alike. The SSA voicing makes it accessible for treble-heavy ensembles without sacrificing the power of the original.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the vocal lines; rock's power comes from locked-in ensemble timing, not rubato. Work the rhythm section and voices together until the pulse feels inevitable.
• Lean into the attitude and swagger of the text. The "seize the day" message only lands if singers deliver it with conviction, not as polite concert singers.
• Balance the combo parts carefully so they enhance rather than bury the vocals. The arrangement thrives on that interplay between rock instruments and voices.
• Use the recorded accompaniment as a rehearsal tool to lock tempo and feel, but encourage singers to internalize the groove so they can own the performance independently.

This is your perfect anchor for a contemporary rock set or a stand-alone moment that breaks up a traditional concert program and reminds audiences why choral music can be vital and alive. It also works exceptionally well in pops concerts, spring programs, or any context where you want your singers to feel the thrill of performing music they genuinely connect with outside the rehearsal room.

• Rhythmic precision and ensemble lock in a rock idiom
• Stylistic flexibility and attitude in choral singing
• Balancing blend while maintaining character and energy
• Integration of instrumental accompaniment with vocal ensemble
• Internalization of groove and pulse beyond written notation