Rocking Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Patsy Ford Simms has crafted an arrangement that lets choirs inhabit authentic rock and roll swagger without sacrificing accessibility. The recorded accompaniment anchors singers in the groove while the part writing stays singable for mixed ensembles at this level, making it a genuinely fun addition to a pop choral concert.

Infectious and playful, with the kind of syncopated swagger that makes audiences want to move. The piece channels mid-century New Orleans R&B energy through a contemporary choral lens, delivering energy without irony.

Mixed choirs at the high school and community level looking for genuine rock repertoire with personality and groove. This octavo pairs well with groups that want to expand beyond traditional pop ballads into music with real rhythmic character.

• Lock into the steady groove of the recorded accompaniment from the first rehearsal. This piece lives and dies by rhythmic precision, so early ensemble work on pulse clarity will pay dividends.
• Shape phrases by thinking in short, conversational chunks rather than long legit lines. Rock phrasing favors punchy articulation and clear diction over sustained beauty.
• Balance the harmonic texture so the bass line remains audible beneath the upper voices. The boogie-woogie foundation is what makes this arrangement work.

Program this in the upbeat section of a pop choral concert to establish momentum and keep the audience engaged. It also works as a palate cleanser between heavier contemporary pieces, reminding singers and listeners alike that rock and roll should be fun.

• Rock and roll phrasing and articulation
• Singing against a recorded rhythm section
• Groove-based rhythm section awareness (especially bass line independence)
• Call-and-response ensemble singing