Taking a Chance on Love: SSA Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's SSA voicing opens this swinging standard to choirs that might otherwise bypass jazz repertoire. The arrangement balances rhythmic snap with genuine harmonic interest, never sacrificing accessibility for sophistication. Your singers will sound polished and contemporary, whether backed by piano or the full SoundPax.

Sophisticated and joyful. The tune glides with an easy confidence while the arrangement keeps the ear engaged through clever counterpoint and rhythmic detail. Singers feel the style without strain; the voicing breathes naturally for SSA range and sits where the voice wants to sit.

SSA choirs seeking genuine jazz literature that sits comfortably for upper voices without requiring extended range or advanced sight-reading. Directors building a mixed repertoire season will appreciate material that feels both contemporary and rooted in American songbook tradition. This works for treble-voiced ensembles from upper middle school through adult community choirs.

• Lock into the swing eighth-note feel from the first rehearsal. The rhythmic precision of the contrapuntal sections depends on consistent articulation and relaxed forward motion.
• Use the recorded accompaniment sparingly during early rehearsals so singers internalize the harmonic movement and entrances independently.
• Shape the dynamics carefully around the interplay of lines. Overpowering any single voice defeats the clever voice-leading Shaw has written.
• If performing with the full SoundPax, rehearse with it well before the performance date so the singers adjust to the richer harmonic and rhythmic texture.

Pair this with other standards or contemporary pop arrangements to anchor a concert segment that celebrates American song. The 12-page score and flexibility between piano and full band backing make it ideal for a spring concert or jazz-focused program. It also works beautifully as a closing number for a pops concert, leaving the audience smiling.

• Swing eighth-note feel and jazz articulation
• Reading and executing contrapuntal voice-leading in SSA texture
• Balancing multiple melodic lines while maintaining rhythmic cohesion
• Interpreting jazz phrasing and lyrical expression within ensemble context