Something's Gotta Give: SSA Choral Octavo

Jay Althouse captures the essential groove of this Mercer standard while keeping the voicing accessible for SSA groups. The arrangement swings authentically without demanding instrumental proficiency from your singers, and it works equally well in a jazz ensemble context or as a concert choir feature. Mercer's lyric is clever and conversational, giving singers material that feels modern even after decades.

Smooth and infectious. The arrangement has the easy sophistication of a classic American songbook piece, with Mercer's witty lyric delivered over warm jazz harmonies. You'll feel the relaxed swing from the opening measures and sense that moment of connection when an audience recognizes the tune.

SSA and SSAA choirs looking for accessible jazz repertoire that doesn't demand instrumental accompaniment. Vocal jazz ensembles and concert choirs at the middle school through adult community level will find this standard-based arrangement both musically satisfying and performable.

• Lock into the laid-back swing feel from the first rehearsal. This isn't a ballad; the groove sits slightly behind the beat, so work through a recording of the original to absorb the pocket before drilling any rhythmic passages.
• Balance the solo voice against the choir. Althouse likely scores moments where one part takes the melody while others provide counterpoint, so ensure your lead vocalist sits in the mix rather than dominating it.
• Pay attention to articulation and vowel consistency in the jazz-inflected passages. The brightness of SSA voicing can make uneven diction distracting, especially on swing-style syncopations.
• Use the recorded accompaniment for sectional work before running full ensemble rehearsals. It helps singers internalize the harmonic motion and tempo rubato that make the arrangement breathe.

This works beautifully as a palate cleanser between heavier concert works, or as a vehicle for programming a tribute to Great American Songbook composers. Consider pairing it with other Mercer standards or other jazz-inflected pop arrangements to create a cohesive set that celebrates the American popular song tradition.

• Swing rhythm and jazz articulation
• Lyrical phrasing in a conversational, speech-like style
• Balancing solo and choral roles within a single arrangement
• Reading jazz harmonies and understanding chord changes
• Ensemble blend in three-part SSA texture