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You Don't Own Me: SSA Choral Octavo

$2.25 USD
$2.25 USD
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You Don't Own Me Cover Image
You Don't Own Me: SSA Choral Octavo

You Don't Own Me: SSA Choral Octavo

Words and music by John Madara and Dave White / arr. Jay Althouse

Item: 00-30939
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Description
Girl power! And a total blast to sing! This ultimate "declaration of independence" for SSA choirs was originally sung by Lesley Gore in the '60s. It was also featured in the movies Dirty Dancing and The First Wives Club. Great lyrics, great harmonies. You go, girls!

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, You Don't Own Me: SSA Choral Octavo comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 8
UPC: 038081337111
SKU: 00-30939

More about this title

About the Composer: John Madara

John Madara co-wrote "You Don't Own Me" with Dave White in 1964, creating one of the most enduring anthems of self-determination in popular music. The song became a signature hit for Lesley Gore and has since appeared in major films, proving its staying power across generations of listeners and performers.

Why we love this

Jay Althouse's SSA arrangement captures the defiant energy of the original while making it entirely accessible for young singers. The harmonies sit naturally in the upper voices without sacrificing the song's attitude, and the lyrics give students a genuinely meaningful text to deliver with conviction.

What to expect

Unapologetic and spirited. The music propels forward with purpose, matching lyrics that declare autonomy and self-respect. Singers feel empowered performing it, and audiences hear a declaration, not just a song.

Who it's for

SSA choirs looking for repertoire with real attitude and contemporary relevance. This works equally well for middle school and high school singers who connect with songs that have something to say.

How to get the most out of it

  • Keep the rhythm section locked and driving; the groove is what gives this piece its power, so nail the pulse from measure one.
  • Shape the phrases with intention around the lyrical content. Each "you don't own me" statement deserves a fresh, uncompromising delivery.
  • Balance the voices so the melody reads clearly even when harmonies thicken; this isn't background music, it's a statement.
  • Lean into the swagger. This piece demands confidence and personality from the singers, not timidity.

How to use it

Perfect as a contrasting piece in a concert celebrating women composers and songwriters, or as an anchor for a program built around songs with social or personal messages. Its familiarity makes it an excellent crowd-pleaser that still demands serious musicianship.

Skills your students will build

  • Maintaining rhythmic precision within an energetic groove
  • Balancing melody and harmony in close-voiced SSA writing
  • Performing with stylistic conviction and attitude
  • Articulating lyrics with clarity and intentionality

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