Sing, Sing, Sing: Choral SoundPax

Mark Hayes understands how to transpose swing energy into choral writing without losing a single ounce of punch. The arrangement sits comfortably for mixed voices while delivering the rhythmic snap and harmonic sophistication that made the original legendary, and the optional instrumentation gives you real flexibility depending on what your ensemble and school can support.

Brightness and forward momentum define this arrangement from first note to last. The harmonies glow with that classic jazz sheen, while the rhythmic drive creates a natural momentum that pulls listeners into the performance. Singers feel the joy of ensemble swing as much as an audience hears it.

School and community choirs ready to prove that big-band standards belong in contemporary choral programming. This works beautifully for groups with solid musicianship who want a concert opener that generates immediate energy and audience engagement without requiring a full orchestra.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the opening figures. These swinging eighth-note patterns define the entire groove, so lock them early in rehearsal rather than assuming they'll tighten up naturally.
• Balance the sax-section texture in the horn parts; if you're using players, they should anchor the harmonies without overshadowing the vocal lines underneath.
• Let the recorded accompaniment teach you the feel first, especially regarding the push-and-pull of the rhythm section. Once singers hear how the swing sits, they'll commit to it with conviction.
• Emphasize the independence of each vocal line. This isn't a unison piece, and parts that weave in and out need clarity so the harmonic sparkle reads to an audience.

Open a spring concert with this piece and you've already won the room. Its infectious confidence makes it an ideal closer too, especially paired with other Great American Songbook selections. Community choirs will find it works equally well for pops or holiday programs where the mood needs lifting.

• Swing articulation and rhythm interpretation
• Reading independent jazz-inflected vocal lines
• Balancing individual parts within close harmonies
• Ensemble attack and release in uptempo contexts
• Rhythmic precision across syncopated figures