Tell Me Something Good (arr. Kirby Shaw): SSA Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures the infectious groove of this Stevie Wonder classic while keeping the SSA voicing singable and fun. The funk and soul DNA of the original comes through in the rhythmic vitality, and the three-part structure gives you genuine scoring flexibility for choirs at different experience levels.

Pure joy and infectious groove. The syncopated rhythms and funk sensibility create momentum and energy that keeps singers and audiences engaged. There's an ease to the melody that masks the rhythmic sophistication underneath, making it feel accessible while remaining musically substantial.

This arrangement works for SSA choirs seeking contemporary material with genuine funk and soul character. It's ideal for groups that enjoy pop and R&B styles and want to stretch their rhythmic and ensemble skills beyond traditional choral repertoire.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the opening sections. This style demands crisp articulation and tight ensemble work; the groove only locks when everyone commits to the written rhythm.
• Let the alto line breathe. In funk and soul writing, the lower voices often carry harmonic and rhythmic interest that the sopranos complement rather than dominate.
• Explore the recorded accompaniment provided to internalize the original's feel. Listening deeply to Stevie Wonder's interpretation will inform phrasing choices that sit naturally in this arrangement.
• Build dynamic contrast by section. The arrangement likely moves between tighter, syncopated passages and moments that open up; treat these shifts as structural landmarks.

Pair this with other contemporary pop or soul arrangements to build a concert set that showcases your choir's range and versatility. It also works beautifully as a pops or lighter concert featuring 1970s soul and funk hits, where audiences connect immediately with the recognizable melody and infectious feel.

• Syncopation and funk rhythmic feel
• Balancing ensemble blend across three parts with distinct rhythmic roles
• Reading and performing with groove and swing sensibility
• Stylistic interpretation of soul and R&B phrasing