Famous Orchestra Music Arranged for Choirs! Thursday, March 10, 2011
Are you looking for a novelty number for your spring concert that still has some “meat” to it? Try one of these well-known orchestral works arranged for SATB a cappella:
A Cappella Overtures  Â
Arr. Andy Beck
Six world-famous opera overtures arranged for SATB choirs with a sense of adventure. Sung entirely on nonsensical “dops†and “bops,†this fast-paced musical collage is guaranteed to both entertain and educate! Includes snippets from: Fidelio, The Barber of Seville, Die Fledermaus, The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro, and William Tell.
The Barber of Seville
Arr. Daryl RunswickÂ
This well-known overture to Rossini’s opera has been a long-time favorite in King’s Singers concerts. From the subdued opening theme in the “strings†to the rousing “full-orchestra†close, this instrumental work is creatively brought to life - King’s Singers style. Challenging, but well worth the effort.
William Tell Overture  Â
Arr. Julie Eschliman
It’s hard to keep a straight face while singing this hilarious novelty arrangement for “serious” choirs. Sung entirely on syllables which imitate the sounds of Rossini’s original orchestral percussion, brasses, and woodwinds, this one will be best when performed tongue in cheek. And from the initial fanfare to the final cadence, seasoned choirs will sound great on the full chords and percussive “Lone Ranger” themes. Awesome when performed a cappella, but equally impressive with the optional supportive piano accompaniment.
Also available for SSA: Overture to the Marriage of Figaro, arranged by Howard Cable.
For more great ideas for your concert, contact Stanton’s choral department!