Two Too Wet!: 2-Part Choral Octavo

This arrangement captures the infectious energy of two genuine rock and roll classics while keeping the vocal writing lean and singable for young choirs. Althouse's treatment respects the original character of each song—the playful bounciness of 'Splish Splash' and the groove-driven charm of 'Sea Cruise'—without overcomplicating the parts, making this perfect for choirs who want to perform recognizable repertoire with genuine fun factor.

Imagine stepping onto a stage in a blue-and-white striped shirt, salt spray in the air, the sun beating down. These arrangements capture the carefree, irrepressible energy of early rock and roll: infectious, joyful, impossible not to move to. The harmonies sit comfortably in the voice and reward singers who commit to the groove.

This octavo works beautifully for middle school and early high school choirs seeking repertoire that builds vocal skills without feeling like a slog. It's equally at home in a pop/jazz-focused program or as a concert brightener for an ensemble that typically performs classical literature.

• Lock in the rhythmic feel early. Both songs thrive on a steady, confident beat; spend rehearsal time getting the choir comfortable with the groove rather than rushing the tempo.
• Use the recorded accompaniment strategically. First, have singers learn their parts with a full arrangement to internalize the harmonic context, then remove it so voices can balance independently.
• Shape the phrase endings with care. These pop songs live or die by their rhythmic precision, so mark breath points clearly and keep eighth-note passages crisp and together.
• Lean into the character contrast between the two pieces. 'Splish Splash' reads as pure fun and looseness, while 'Sea Cruise' has a more sophisticated swagger; let the choir feel and express that difference.

Program this as a concert opener or closer to shift the energy and engage an audience immediately. Alternatively, use it in a pop or musical theater themed concert, pairing it with other mid-century and contemporary hits to create a recognizable, accessible program that appeals to families and younger listeners.

• Steady rhythmic independence in a groove-based setting
• Blending two-part harmony with a pop/R&B sensibility
• Dynamic contrast and phrasing in contemporary styles
• Confidence singing recognizable material with stylistic authenticity