Vocal Arranging for 5 part Acapella Pop Voices
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Research Statement
Research Background
This research involved translating, interpreting, arranging and performing a 5-part a cappella medley for the Ronald McDonald Charity House Ball (WCC, Nov 2023), reimagining “Til You're Home” and “Firework” for unaccompanied voices. Using vocal percussion, close voicing, and syllabic delivery, I aimed to sustain musical interest and emotional uplift in a donor-focused setting. The research question asked how can pop songs be effectively arranged into engaging a cappella formats for small pop vocal ensembles, using a repeatable method that responds to performance context and audience needs? It contributes to pop vocal arranging by providing a repeatable, adaptable framework for live, context-aware a cappella performance.
Research Contribution
This project outlines strategies for adapting produced pop songs for small vocal ensembles by analysing and vocally reinterpreting their harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic elements. In “Til You're Home”, I built from a solo voice to a dense, harmonic and rhythmic texture simulating a band. In “Firework”, I adapted string motifs from Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” and recreated synth lines as harmonised vocals to match the original energy. These techniques show how vocals can emulate instruments and create dynamic pacing. It reflected the gala’s emotional tone, showing how the setting shapes musical choices.These principles provide a repeatable framework for arrangers with limited vocal resources in live, emotionally rich settings.
Research Significance
This arrangement set a benchmark for five-part pop a cappella in Perth, featured by WCC at a major venue. Described as “super successful” with “amazing feedback,” it affirmed its impact. It advanced my artistic practice, reinforced a feedback-loop into my teaching, and will inform future research into small a cappella adaptation and interpretation. The work shows the artistic strength and audience appeal of small ensemble a cappella in high-profile settings.
Non-Traditional Research Output
Live Performance
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
2023
Location of the Work
Perth
Publisher
Williams Creative Co
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
RAS ID
70322
Event Dates
2023-11-11
Event Venue
Crown
Comments
Allen, M. (2023). Vocal Arranging for 5 part Acapella Pop Voices. [Video Recording]. Crown.