Step One (from the musical Kinky Boots): SATB Choral Octavo

Step One radiates infectious optimism without sacrificing musical substance. The arrangement by Andy Beck captures the show's humor and heart while remaining performable by school and community choirs, and the straightforward message about moving forward lands powerfully with student singers who can connect emotionally to the text even as they're having fun with the style.

Optimistic and propulsive, with a conversational warmth underneath the rhythmic drive. The repeated title phrase becomes a mantra of encouragement, building momentum as the piece progresses and inviting singers to genuinely commit to the message of moving forward.

High school and community choirs seeking contemporary Broadway material with energy and emotional accessibility. This octavo works for ensembles looking for a feature-length showpiece that entertains audiences while remaining within the technical reach of singers at an intermediate level.

• Lock in the rhythmic groove during the verse sections; the piece depends on a steady, driving pulse rather than theatrical flexibility. The recorded accompaniment can anchor this if your ensemble needs rhythmic support.
• Shape the dynamic arch across the entire piece rather than treating each section as isolated. Start lighter and build intensity through repetition, especially in the sections that loop the title phrase.
• Keep the text conversational and intimate even at full volume. This isn't a powerhouse ballad; it's one character encouraging another, so clarity and natural phrasing matter more than sheer sound.
• If you're using Andy Beck's choreography (available on the Step One! DVD), rehearse the movement and singing separately first, then layer them together gradually. Your singers will need solid confidence in the vocal line before adding choreographic elements.

Program this as an uplifting middle or closing number on a concert celebrating contemporary musical theater. It works equally well as a standalone feature at a pops concert or alongside other pieces from recent Broadway scores. The piece's energetic character and accessible style make it an excellent choice for spring concerts where you want to showcase your ensemble's range beyond classical or traditional repertoire.

• Singing rhythmically driven pop and Broadway styles with proper articulation and swing feel
• Maintaining ensemble blend and balance while layering repeated melodic phrases
• Shaping text for theatrical delivery without sacrificing pitch accuracy and alignment
• Integrating choreography with sung lines at performance tempo