Taking a Chance on Love: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Darmon Meader's arrangement captures the infectious energy of a swinging standard while giving singers genuinely musical parts to sink their teeth into. The orchestration works equally well with a pianist accompanying or a full jazz trio, so you can adapt to your performance space and available resources without sacrificing the groove.

A breezy, optimistic number with sharp wit in the lyrics and sophistication in the harmonic movement. The piece swings naturally, neither forced nor overly laid-back, with enough melodic charm to stick with your singers and audience long after the final chord.

Vocal jazz ensembles and pop choirs looking for a sophisticated standard that plays well to audiences. This octavo suits singers with some jazz experience and a willingness to blend into close harmony; you'll need confident blend and intonation across the SATB parts.

• Balance the vocal lines so the arrangement's clever counterpoint comes through; this isn't a unison shout but a tightly voiced ensemble conversation.
• Lock the rhythm section (piano or trio) into a crisp swing pocket before sectional rehearsals; once your singers hear the groove, tuning and phrasing snap into place faster.
• Shape the lyrical moments with the same attention you'd give a jazz soloist; Duke's harmonic language rewards expressive rubato and dynamic nuance even within the upbeat sections.

Program this as a concert closer or as part of a jazz-focused set where it can anchor a sequence of standards and contemporary pop arrangements. The uptempo energy and audience familiarity make it a reliable crowd pleaser that also showcases your ensemble's precision and musicality.

• Swing subdivision and jazz articulation
• Singing in close four-part harmony with accurate blend and intonation
• Stylistic interpretation of Great American Songbook repertoire
• Syncopated rhythm reading in a contemporary choral context
• Collaborative ensemble listening in an arranged vocal jazz setting