Under The Boardwalk (arr. Mark Brymer): SSA Choral Octavo

Mark Brymer's arrangement captures the nostalgic coolness of this standard while keeping the writing accessible for developing SSA choirs. The voice leading preserves the song's signature laid-back groove without demanding advanced technique, making it an excellent vehicle for teaching blend and phrasing in a context students actually want to sing.

Warm, easy, and summery. The song evokes the carefree nostalgia of a bygone seaside, with a gentle swing that invites the singers to relax into the groove. Brymer's arrangement maintains that unhurried, almost dreamlike quality throughout.

SSA choirs looking for an accessible pop standard that sounds polished without excessive difficulty. This works equally well for high school ensembles building confidence and for community or adult choirs seeking familiar, singable repertoire.

• Treat the rhythm section feel as foundational to the whole performance. Even when voices enter with sustained chords, they should sit lightly inside the pocket rather than pushing ahead or dragging.
• Shape the melody line with subtle dynamic peaks rather than aggressive attacks. The Drifters' original thrives on restraint, and your arrangement will too.
• Balance soloists or featured voices against the background carefully. Use the recorded accompaniment to find where the lead sits in the mix, then adjust section volumes accordingly.

Pair this with other pop standards or '50s and '60s classics to create a throwback concert set. It also works wonderfully as a lighter complement to more serious art song or classical repertoire, giving audiences a moment to smile before shifting emotional gears.

• Singing in jazz and pop styles with authentic phrasing and rhythm
• Blending sustained chords while maintaining a lifted, warm vowel
• Responding to accompaniment and locking into a groove
• Balancing featured soloists with ensemble backgrounds