Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars) (arr. Deke Sharon): SATB Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures the irresistible groove and energy of this modern classic without relying on backing tracks to land the effect. The voicing sits comfortably for mixed choirs while maintaining the funk attitude that makes the song infectious, giving singers a genuine reason to perform it rather than just checking a box for popular music.

Propulsive and playful. The arrangement harnesses that irrepressible funk energy, building momentum through layered voices and rhythmic precision while keeping the sound tight and vocal. Singers feel the groove immediately, even in rehearsal.

Any choir looking to bridge the gap between classical repertoire and the music students actually listen to. This works equally well for high school show choirs, college a cappella groups, and community choruses seeking contemporary material that audiences recognize and enjoy.

• Lock the rhythm section (bass and baritone) into a tight pocket. This song lives or dies on groove, so anchor your foundation voices and let soloists and upper voices play across the top of that foundation.
• Emphasize the articulation markings to create that crisp, percussive quality the original demands. Clipped consonants and clean release points keep the funk alive without needing a drum kit.
• Balance solos carefully so they cut through the ensemble texture. The arrangement likely includes featured moments; make sure your soloist(s) can be heard without drowning out the harmonic scaffolding underneath.
• Practice the syncopated figures separately at a slow tempo, then gradually increase speed until the rhythmic interlocking feels natural rather than forced.

A cappella arrangements like this thrive as a showcase closer or second-half opener when you need to reset the energy in your concert. It also works perfectly as a fun warm-up piece for the weeks leading up to a concert, building ensemble skill while keeping morale high.

• Syncopated rhythmic precision in mixed meter contexts
• Blend and balance in funk and contemporary grooves
• Articulation control for crisp consonants and percussive effects
• Independent part singing with minimal harmonic support
• Sight-reading of contemporary popular music notation