Use Somebody (arr. André Bachmann): SSATB Choral Octavo

Bachmann's arrangement transforms a synth-driven rock song into something that sits perfectly in the choral vernacular without sacrificing the track's emotional core. The piece gives your singers access to contemporary repertoire that they actually want to sing, while the harmonic sophistication keeps musicians engaged across all voice parts.

The piece carries the yearning quality of the original but channels it through vocal harmonies that feel intimate and searching. There's an almost ambient quality to it, as though the singers are creating the lush layered sound that the recording used instruments to achieve.

Directors programming for high school or college ensembles who want to include contemporary rock repertoire that challenges musicians musically rather than simply entertaining them. This works especially well for mixed or all-female choirs seeking a cappella material with modern appeal.

• Balance the texture so no single voice part drowns out the others; the arrangement's strength lies in how the parts interlock rather than in any one melodic line dominating.
• Shape the phrase arcs with subtle dynamic breathing rather than abrupt changes. This song lives in nuance, and your singers will connect more deeply when they're thinking in long lines.
• Experiment with vowel unification across the ensemble, especially in sustained passages. Consistency here creates the cohesive, almost instrumental quality that makes the piece effective.
• Honor the rhythmic precision within a relaxed feel. The groove matters, but it should feel natural rather than metronomic.

This pairs beautifully in a concert alongside acoustic or unplugged interpretations of other contemporary songs, creating a themed set that bridges pop, rock, and choral traditions. It also works as a contemporary offering within a diverse concert where you're balancing classical, jazz, and modern repertoire.

• Blending four-part harmony with pop sensibilities
• Maintaining rhythmic independence while supporting overall ensemble groove
• Interpreting emotional intent through vocal color and phrasing
• Reading contemporary choral voicing conventions
• Sustaining pitch clarity across extended a cappella passages