Shake, Rattle, and Let the Good Times Roll: SAB Choral Octavo

Gilpin knows how to make audiences smile without sacrificing musicality. This medley captures the infectious energy of early rock and roll while remaining singable for a three-part ensemble, and the inclusion of movement and staging possibilities transforms it from a pleasant sing into an event. The recorded accompaniment gives you flexibility for rehearsals and lets your singers focus on the choreography without worrying about staying locked in.

Pure, unapologetic fun. The three dance hits from the golden age of rock and roll carry an irresistible momentum, and the SAB writing keeps things accessible while maintaining the swagger of the originals. Your singers will feel the joy of these iconic melodies, and your audience will remember why these songs became standards.

Any choir wanting to energize an audience without resorting to unison pop arrangements. It works equally well for middle school groups discovering their blend and high school choirs looking for a program-closer that gets people on their feet.

• Establish your staging early in rehearsals. Even simple hand movements or formation changes during the transitions between songs keep the energy high and give singers something concrete to execute alongside their vocal lines.
• Balance the SAB voicing so the sopranos and altos aren't competing for space in their range. The full, fun sound works best when each part sits comfortably in its tessiture.
• Let the recorded accompaniment set the groove first. Have your singers listen to it multiple times before learning notes so they internalize the rhythmic feel and style of each song.

This is your spring concert closer or your concert variation when you want to remind the audience that choirs can rock. Pair it with one or two more substantial pieces to frame it, or feature it as a standalone pops concert highlight where staging becomes part of the overall production design.

• Rhythmic precision in a 12/8 groove
• SAB voice independence and balance
• Coordinating movement with vocal execution
• Style and articulation of classic rock and roll
• Transitioning between song sections cleanly