Take On Me (arr. Roger Emerson) Sheet Music Preview

Take On Me (arr. Roger Emerson): SSA Choral Octavo

As performed by Pentatonix / As performed by Aha / As performed by a-ha / Arranged by Roger Emerson

Item: 35-DS00434182

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 23
SKU: 35-DS00434182

More about this title

About the Artist: Pentatonix

Pentatonix emerged as a five-member a cappella group that fundamentally changed how pop music could be performed without instruments. Their interpretations of contemporary hits demonstrate sophisticated vocal arranging and the kind of rhythmic precision that only comes from meticulous ensemble work. For music educators, their approach offers a masterclass in what's possible when singers commit fully to blend, balance, and the textural possibilities of the human voice alone.

The group's influence on choral music education has been substantial. Their recordings show students what contemporary a cappella can sound like at the highest level, and their popularity has inspired countless young singers to take their own vocal ensemble work seriously.

Why we love this

Roger Emerson's arrangement captures the hook-driven appeal of the original while giving SSA voices genuine musicality rather than just assigning them thin, functional parts. The chart sits comfortably for high school and college choirs who want repertoire that resonates with their peers and also rewards careful listening. It's the kind of contemporary pop arrangement that doesn't condescend to either the song or the singers.

What to expect

Energetic and modern without losing the soaring quality that made the original so memorable. The arrangement likely balances rhythmic propulsion with moments of harmonic richness that give singers real satisfaction in the ensemble sound.

Who it's for

High school and college choirs seeking contemporary material that connects with student audiences and doesn't sacrifice musical substance. Directors building programs that include a cappella or pop repertoire alongside more traditional concert fare.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock the rhythmic drive from the very first measures; this song lives and dies by its pocket. Use a strong internal pulse rather than pushing tempo.
  • Treat the signature synth melody as a vocal line with personality, not background texture. Find the line's shape and arch it intentionally.
  • Balance the stacked vocal layers so no single part disappears. This arrangement likely includes moving parts that need equal weight.
  • Record yourself early and often. Hearing the blend come together across all three parts will accelerate your rehearsal timeline significantly.

How to use it

Perfect as a spring concert selection that bridges to your younger audience members or as a feature piece at a more informal concert setting. Alternatively, program it alongside your a cappella selections if your choir performs multiple concert formats during the year.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic precision in contemporary pop contexts
  • Vocal layering and textural balance in a cappella writing
  • Sustaining engagement with modern material that requires consistent focus
  • Part independence while maintaining overall ensemble cohesion

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