The Rhythm Of Life (from Sweet Charity) (arr. John Leavitt): SATB Choral Octavo

John Leavitt's arrangement captures the infectious optimism of Coleman's original without sacrificing harmonic interest or singability across all four parts. The piece sits comfortably for mixed choirs and works equally well as a concert opener or a closer that leaves audiences smiling.

Energetic and bright, with a theatrical warmth that recalls the optimism of classic musical theater. The rhythmic drive and major-key solidity create immediate engagement, inviting audiences into a moment of unforced joy.

Mixed choirs at the intermediate level and beyond will find a rewarding contemporary concert piece with built-in appeal. The arrangement works for treble choirs as well, with minimal adjustment needed.

• Find the swing in the rhythms rather than playing them straight; this material lives in the space between jazz and pop, and a subtle lilt in the eighth notes makes all the difference.
• Balance the melody line across sections as it passes around. Leavitt often distributes the tune, so awareness of who carries the primary material ensures the listener always hears a clear shape.
• Keep the accompaniment figures light and forward. Background parts should feel propulsive rather than weighted, which maintains the song's buoyant character.

This arrangement shines in a pops or light concert setting, where it can anchor a group of musical theater selections or stand alone as a palate cleanser between heavier fare. The upbeat finish makes it an excellent choice for the second-to-last number on a program.

• Handling syncopated rhythms in a jazz-influenced pop idiom
• Sustaining rhythmic precision while singing with swing feel
• Following a distributed melody across multiple voice parts
• Balancing rhythmic accompaniment figures with a primary line