Viva La Vida (arr. Deke Sharon): SATB Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures the soaring optimism of this stadium-sized anthem while making it singable and exciting for SATB ensembles at all levels. The piece balances accessibility with genuine vocal interest, giving each section moments to shine without requiring dramatic technical demands. It's the kind of arrangement that energizes a concert and leaves audiences humming.

Radiantly optimistic and emotionally direct, with the kind of infectious melodic clarity that makes people instinctively sing along. The a cappella setting strips away production and places the focus squarely on vocal tone and harmonic blend, creating an intimate yet powerful statement.

High school and college choirs seeking a contemporary piece that engages audiences while remaining accessible to singers. Directors programming pop or secular concerts will find this a reliable crowd pleaser that doesn't compromise musical integrity.

• Build momentum toward the chorus by keeping the verse lyrical and conversational; let the familiar melody do the work rather than overselling early phrases.
• Lock the lower voices into a steady harmonic foundation during the main sections; this anchors the sopranos and altos, who carry the signature melodic hooks.
• Shape the dynamic arc across the full 17 pages so that the climactic moments feel earned and the quieter passages aren't undersold.

Use this as a centerpiece for a contemporary or secular concert, or as a finale that sends the audience out on an uplifting note. It works equally well in a spring concert or as a show closer, and pairs naturally with other modern pop arrangements.

• Blending and balancing voices in close four-part harmony
• Sustaining pure vowels without dependence on instrumental support
• Maintaining pitch and intonation across an extended, through-composed piece
• Stylistically interpreting a well-known contemporary song