Who Could Ask for Anything More?: SoundTrax Digital Audio Download

Jay Althouse's arrangement captures the buoyant charm and harmonic richness of this Gershwin standard without oversimplifying it. The recorded accompaniment frees singers to focus on the lyrical elegance of the melody, making this accessible for developing choirs while maintaining the sophistication audiences expect from a masterwork.

The piece radiates optimism and urbanity, with a melody that seems to shimmer over gently swaying harmonies. There's a sophisticated ease to it, the musical equivalent of a well-tailored suit, combining Tin Pan Alley accessibility with unexpected harmonic turns that keep both singers and listeners engaged.

This arrangement works for intermediate to advanced community choirs, youth choirs with solid musicianship, and college ensembles seeking repertoire that pleases audiences while respecting the original composition. It suits groups comfortable with jazz-influenced harmony and singers who can execute clear, conversational diction.

• Balance the melody line with accompanying voices so Ira Gershwin's witty lyrics land clearly; diction matters as much as the tune.
• Shape the phrases through the harmonic motion rather than stopping at phrase marks; Gershwin's sophistication lies in the flow of both melody and chords.
• Use the recorded accompaniment as a reference during rehearsal, but rehearse without it regularly to build ensemble independence and rhythmic confidence.

Program this during a concert segment celebrating American songwriting, or pair it with other Gershwin works to showcase the range of his compositional voice. Its approachable elegance makes it particularly effective as a closing number for lighter programs or as a gateway piece introducing audiences to jazz-influenced choral writing.

• Singing over jazz-influenced chord progressions and seventh chords
• Articulating rapid text passages with musical clarity
• Balancing homophonic texture to highlight melody and accompaniment
• Interpreting Gershwin's harmonic language and rhythmic flexibility