Zorbing (arr. Doug Watts): SATB Choral Octavo

Doug Watts has crafted an arrangement that respects the band's quirky charm while making the piece thoroughly singable for mixed choirs. The harmonic color and rhythmic vitality of the original translate beautifully to the choral medium, giving your singers a contemporary work that feels both fresh and genuinely musical.

Buoyant and witty, with the melodic warmth of indie folk but the rhythmic snap of pop. The arrangement invites playfulness and genuine ensemble connection, never taking itself too seriously while maintaining real musical craft.

Choirs seeking contemporary repertoire that balances accessibility with musical substance. This piece works well for groups comfortable with rhythmic independence and pop-inflected phrasing.

• Pay close attention to the rhythm section's independence from the vocal lines. Locking the groove early in rehearsal prevents rhythmic drift and keeps the energy buoyant.
• Highlight the interplay between voice parts by bringing out inner harmonies; this arrangement likely features the clever voice leading that defines Stornoway's sound.
• Maintain a conversational, natural tone in the text delivery. These lyrics demand clarity and personality, not operatic weight.

Pair this with other contemporary secular works to create a dynamic second half of a concert. Its relatively short length and accessible style make it ideal for engaging younger audiences or showcasing your choir's range beyond traditional repertoire.

• Rhythmic independence within a pop/folk harmonic framework
• Lyrical clarity and conversational text delivery
• Balancing harmonic blend with part definition
• Ensemble awareness in contemporary vocal styles