The Lone Ar-ranger! has always been popular in a variety of forms, from Accordion Orchestra to Wind Band, Bassoon Quartet to Pop Orchestra.

Watching some of this year’s international Eisteddfod, I was really impressed with an SATB outfit from California, the Riverside City College Chamber Singers. I thought that a ’vocal’ arrangement might suit them down to the ground, and this was one of the few remaining ensembles I’d considered arranging it for!

I’ve added ’nonsense’ syllables for all of Rossini’s contribution - no offence meant, of course - whilst having all those tune snippets that actually have words sung with the original lyrics! For those purely instrumental items, I’ve reverted to nonsense syllables again.

It is a very challenging piece, but in the right hands should come off well, either with just four voices, or a chamber choir. I have also provided chord symbols, if some discrete accompaniment is felt advantageous, as well as a Piano Reduction, should even more support be needed!

All in all, it’s still got to be a fun piece, and the nonsense lyrics can be varied according to taste!