Turn the Beat Around Sheet Music Preview

Turn the Beat Around: SSAB Choral Octavo

Words and music by Peter Jackson, Jr. and Gerald Jackson / arr. Alan Billingsley

Item: 00-PO-0004379

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Description
This spicy arrangement is true to the Miami Beach style of Gloria Estefan. It's hot, hot, hot! "Turn the beat around, love to hear percussion." Featured on the "Hooray for Hollywood!" movement DVD #28868.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 16
SKU: 00-PO-0004379

More about this title

Why we love this

Alan Billingsley's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without overcomplicating the voicing, making it genuinely fun to rehearse and perform. The built-in staging and movement options give your choir instant personality on stage, and the Latin percussion elements keep everyone engaged through every phrase.

What to expect

Hot, celebratory, and irresistibly rhythmic. The arrangement pulses with Latin percussion accents and propulsive groove, channeling the confidence and style of Gloria Estefan's original without losing sight of vocal clarity. Your choir will feel the beat rather than just singing about it.

Who it's for

Choirs seeking contemporary pop arrangements that feel genuinely danceable and stage-friendly. This works especially well for programs that lean toward entertainment value, community engagement, or mixed-age ensembles where accessibility and fun are priorities.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock in the rhythmic groove early by having the choir snap or clap the clave pattern during initial rehearsals; this trains the ensemble to feel the Latin pocket rather than pushing ahead.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment in rehearsal to establish the Miami Beach vibe and energy level, then gradually reduce its volume as the choir internalizes the style.
  • Balance the percussion feature thoughtfully; if you have instrumental parts available, let them shine on the "love to hear percussion" section while the choir locks into tight rhythmic support.
  • Emphasize the contrast between sections by adjusting dynamics and articulation; the bright, punchy moments need crisp consonants and forward energy.

How to use it

Pair this with other contemporary pop or Latin-inspired pieces to build a cohesive movement, or anchor a "Hooray for Hollywood!" themed concert with strong crowd appeal. The built-in staging makes it ideal for a spring or gala performance where visual entertainment matches the musical energy.

Skills your students will build

  • Latin rhythm patterns and clave-driven ensemble groove
  • Rhythmic precision in syncopated passages
  • Balancing vocal parts with rhythmic and percussion elements
  • Stylistic interpretation of contemporary pop arrangements
  • Coordinating movement and staging with vocal performance

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