Theme from New York, New York: Choral SoundPax

Mark Hayes' arrangement captures the swagger and sophistication of Sinatra's iconic recording while making the piece accessible and fun for choirs of varying experience levels. The kick line finale gives singers something genuinely exciting to perform, and the jazz harmonies sit beautifully across mixed voices without requiring advanced vocal technique. This is the kind of arrangement that earns genuine applause and keeps singers engaged from first rehearsal through concert night.

Sophisticated, syncopated, and celebratory. The arrangement pulses with jazz energy while maintaining the melodic clarity that makes the tune unforgettable. There's confidence in every phrase, building to that famous kick line finale that feels like a standing ovation waiting to happen.

Choirs seeking a secular showstopper that works for mixed voices at intermediate to advanced levels. This arrangement suits groups comfortable with jazz inflection and rhythmic precision who want a number that audiences will recognize and singers will enjoy performing.

• Lock in the rhythmic syncopation early. The swing feel requires precision from all sections, so spend rehearsal time on the syncopated figures that sit between the beats rather than on them.
• Treat the solo moments as jazz singing, not classical phrasing. Shorter breaths, more conversational tone, and a willingness to sit slightly back in the phrase give the piece its authentic Sinatra flavor.
• Balance the final kick line for maximum impact. The arrangement's payoff depends on ensemble unity and clear articulation across all voice parts during that signature ending.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to lock the groove. The rhythm section drives this piece; your singers need to feel that pulse underneath them consistently.

Program this as a concert closer or anchor piece for a pops concert, holiday show, or spring concert finale. It pairs well with other jazz standards or contemporary pop arrangements and works equally well as a standalone opener for a program that includes more classical repertoire.

• Reading and performing jazz rhythms and syncopation
• Swing eighth-note interpretation and phrasing
• Balancing harmony in jazz voicings
• Ensemble precision in syncopated ensemble passages
• Stylistically appropriate vocal tone and interpretation for jazz idiom
• Choreographed ensemble movement and staging