Quick start. Basic arranging in ten steps

Principles of arranging. What is arranging? ; The arranging spectrum ; The dreamer, the editor, and the critic : discovering your toolkit and developing your "inner ear" ; Transcription ; Five myths about music making ; Vocal conventions : ranges, breaks, and "sweet spots"

The ten steps expanded. Song selection ; Listening to the original ; Listening to other versions ; Form and conceptualization ; Preparing your materials ; Melody and lyrics ; The bass line ; Background voices ; Final touches ; Record/rehearse

Intermission. In-depth arrangement analyses

Advanced topics in arranging. Change-ups and clever bits : adding spice to your arrangement ; Arranging for other vocal formats ; Vocal percussion ; Specific a cappella styles : a "how-to" history of a cappella ; Writing for your own group ; Writing medleys ; Breaking the block : overcoming creative barriers ; Final thoughts.