Turn the Beat Around: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Gallina's arrangement respects what made the original a radio staple while actually working for developing singers. The Latin groove sits solidly in the ensemble without demanding vocal gymnastics, and the recorded accompaniment locks everything into place so your singers can focus on locking the rhythms and finding their parts.

Infectious and energetic. The Latin percussion and steady pulse create an irresistible forward motion that pulls the choir along. This is the kind of song that makes audiences want to move.

Middle school and younger high school choirs ready for something with genuine style and contemporary appeal. Singers who need a chart that's accessible but still feels current and fun to perform.

• Sing into the recorded accompaniment from day one. Let the rhythm section anchor the choir's entrances and keep the ensemble from dragging the Latin beat.
• Emphasize the off-beat articulation in the verses. Clean consonants and light vowels will let the groove breathe without sounding stiff.
• Balance the parts so no section pushes ahead. The excitement comes from the collective momentum, not any one voice leading.

Program this early in a concert to set an upbeat tone and energize the room. It pairs well alongside other contemporary secular pieces in a pop or world music set.

• Maintaining consistent groove and rhythm in a Latin style
• Balancing parts within a layered vocal texture
• Singing with clean articulation and syncopated rhythms
• Responding to and locking with recorded accompaniment