Jazz is one of America’s most important art forms—and vocal jazz is a powerful, expressive style that belongs in today’s choral classroom. In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month (April), J.W. Pepper is spotlighting outstanding vocal jazz arrangements for choirs of all ages.
From jazz standards and swing classics to modern charts with a jazzy feel, this video features repertoire that works for elementary, middle school, high school, college, and community choirs. You’ll find accessible selections to introduce jazz style, scat singing, and rich jazz harmonies, as well as more advanced charts for experienced vocal jazz ensembles.
Whether you’re adding one piece to a spring concert or building an entire jazz‑themed program, these arrangements offer flexibility, musical growth, and plenty of swing. Many of the featured titles are available via ePrint, so you can start rehearsing right away. All selections are linked below.
For even more resources, repertoire, and teaching tools, visit . Now—let’s get to some swinging vocal jazz for your choir.
Feeling Good
Leslie Bricusse & Anthony Newley/arr. Roger Emerson
With its iconic bluesy groove, this jazzy arrangement of the Nina Simone classic retains the authentic feel and harmonies. The ostinato is present in the harmony line and is so fun to sing while it highlights the warm melody. Finger snaps add to the rhythmic feel of this guaranteed crowd pleaser. Ideal and accessible for choirs from young to old.
Starts at 1:49
Keep on the Sunny Side
J. Howard Entwisle/arr. Dwight Bigler
In a world with never-ending difficulties, this song reminds us to find the positive things in life and be kind to one another. Featuring fun, quick-to-learn choir parts and optional double bass, this arrangement is accompanied by a lively swing piano part inspired by 1900s New Orleans. Perfect as a concert closer!
Starts at 3:02
Blue Moon
Richard Rodgers/arr. Kirby Shaw, Lyricist: Lorenz Hart
Just in time for the movie of the same name, this Great American Songbook standard remains timeless as ever in this swingin’ arrangement. Tasteful vocal jazz harmonies and singable swing rhythms freshen up this beloved Rodgers and Hart classic. It’s an accessible arrangement with scaled-down optional instrumentation for just guitar, bass, and drums.
Starts at 3:50
At the End of the Road
Irving Berlin/arr. Anita Cracauer
A hidden gem, this Irving Berlin song holds an important place in black history – it was written for “Hallelujah,” one of the first major-studio films to feature an all-black cast, and first recorded by Ethel Waters, an early pioneer for African American women in the arts. The lyrical message presents an optimistic view despite hardship, and the arrangement features a treble soloist, easy-to-learn jazz harmonies, and a swingin’ big finish!
Starts at 4:40
BONUS! Jazz Junior
Jay Althouse, Lisa DeSpain, Russell Robinson, Kirby Shaw & Michele Weir
Alfred’s top vocal jazz arrangers were called upon to contribute Great American Songbook arrangements designed to introduce beginners to the genre. And oh, how they delivered! This is an indispensable collection for young soloists or unison singers including reproducible song sheets and a fabulous foreword (with developmental exercises) by Dr. Michele Weir. Enhance the jazzy vibe with full rhythm section accompaniments on the available audio. Teach swing, scat, jazz articulations, stylizations, and more! Grades 4 and up.
Starts at 5:58
From the Start
Laufey & Spencer Stewart/arr. Roger Emerson
Join in the dancing! The original song builds community with children holding hands and singing together. In this new arrangement, each section of the orchestra gets a chance to join the fun and build a strong foundation and community as the melody moves from section to section. A great way to introduce your students and audiences to the rich and wonderful music of Brazil!
Starts at 7:08
Rainbow Connection
Paul Williams & Kenny Ascher/arr. Tripp Carter
Deemed culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant by the Library of Congress, this beloved song from “The Muppet Movie” is presented in an absolutely gorgeous vocal jazz arrangement. As performed by the Davidson Chorale at the 2025 ACDA National Conference, it features exquisite a cappella jazz harmonies and a solo in the middle section. A stunning choice for more advanced choirs!
Starts at 8:06
I Like to Sing (Scat)
Teresa Jennings/arr. Paul Jennings
A celebration of singing, this jazzy partner song is easy to learn and fun to perform, combining a verse of lyrics with a verse of scat. Use the scat syllables as published or let your students improvise; sing it a cappella, with piano, or with the awesome big band track (sold separately).
Starts at 8:56
Destination Moon
Marvin Fisher/arr. Kirby Shaw
Your choir will fly high with this buoyant, colorful arrangement of a Nat King Cole classic from the dawn of the mid-20th-century Space Age. Intertwining vocal lines, vibrant harmonies, and a fun jazz vocalize section add interest. An optional rhythm section brings sensational swing to an “out of this world” adventure.
Starts at 9:56
