News & Views Friday, April 26, 2024

New Motion Picture Arrangements for Band Wednesday, March 25, 2020

recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Check out the newest motion picture titles for concert band this spring, from “The Lion King,” “Star Wars,” “Frozen 2,” and more!

00303502-wlfrom THE LION KING 2019
This Land (from The Lion King) arr. Robert Longfield, Grade 1.5
Along with the familiar songs by Elton John, the soundtrack music by Hans Zimmer played an integral role in setting the mood for Disney’s “The Lion King.” Here are powerful themes from the movie skillfully arranged for 2nd year players by Robert Longfield.

Never Too Late (from The Lion King) arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
Here’s the catchy and upbeat song composed specifically for the 2019 film “The Lion King.” Johnnie Vinson’s version for younger players is easy to learn and features interesting parts for all players.

Highlights from The Lion King arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
“The Lion King” saga continues with the 2019 live-action movie that features stunning visuals, and of course the familiar musical numbers. This medley includes “Never Too Late” which was composed for the new film, along with the favorites “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “Hakuna Matata,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” and “Circle of Life.”

00337244-wlfrom STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER
Soundtrack Highlights from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
The Star Wars saga wraps up in grand style with the blockbuster movie “The Rise of Skywalker.” Featuring a skillful blending of familiar older themes along with dramatic new material, John Williams again shows he’s the master music for film. This effective and satisfying medley is sure to become a concert highlight.

Symphonic Suite from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arr. Jay Bocook, Grade 4
The beloved Star Wars saga concludes with the blockbuster hit “The Rise of Skywalker.” John Williams’ masterful score again provides the emotional connection to the story with reprises of familiar character themes as well as poignant new material.

Music from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2
Episode IX of the Star Wars saga (“The Rise of Skywalker”) has proven a fan favorite and effectively wraps up the popular film series. The music again plays a key role featuring beloved character themes from earlier films along with dramatic new material. Here’s a great sounding and concise medley for younger players.

Selections from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 3
The final installment of the storied Star Wars saga brings us another masterful score from John Williams. Here’s a terrific medley scored for flexible instrumentation that features favorite themes from the earlier films along with dramatic new material.

00328772-wlfrom FROZEN 2
Highlights from Frozen 2 arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
The highly anticipated follow-up to the original “Frozen” movie features an equally powerful collection of songs. This marvelous concert setting includes the haunting Vuelie chant melody along with the songs “All Is Found,” “Some Things Never Change,” “Into the Unknown,” “Lost in the Woods,” and “Show Yourself.”

Into the Unknown (from Frozen 2) arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
This powerful anthem from the blockbuster “Frozen II” is sung by Idina Menzel in the film, and performed by pop sensation Panic! At The Disco during credits. Here’s a terrific setting for band of this instant classic.

Music from Frozen 2 arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 3
From the powerful movie blockbuster “Frozen II” here is an exciting and well-paced medley scored for flexible instrumentation. Included is the opening chant “Vuelie” followed by “Some Things Never Change,” “Into the Unknown,” “Lost in the Woods,” and “Show Yourself.”

00298946-wlAND MORE!
Highlights from Rocketman arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 3
Hit songs by Elton John have become an enduring part of our pop culture. Featured in the bio pic “Rocketman,” these familiar classics feature catchy melodies and timeless lyrics. Here’s a medley for flexible instrumentation that includes “Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Your Song,” and “I’m Still Standing.”

Soundtrack Highlights from Yesterday arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
Featuring the magical music of the Beatles throughout, this imaginative movie explores a world where everyone loses memory of the iconic British band and their music except one person who takes full advantage. Includes “I Want to Hold Your Hand;” “Let It Be;” “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da;” “Back in the U.S.S.R.;” “Hey Jude;” and of course “Yesterday.”

Highlights from Toy Story 4 arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 3
Our favorite gang of toys is back for another grand adventure, accompanied by terrific new songs from Randy Newman. This varied and entertaining medley includes “The Ballad of the Lonesome Cowboy,” “I Can’t Let You Throw Yourself Away,” “Cowboy Lament,” and naturally “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.”

00298948-wlArabian Nights (from Aladdin) arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 1.5
Featuring an exotic flavor and familiar melody, here’s an easy arrangement of one of the signature songs from Disney’s “Aladdin.” Sure to be a hit.

A Million Dreams (from The Greatest Showman) arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 1.5
Songs from the movie “The Greatest Showman” have a way of appealing to all ages. This easy arrangement of “A Million Dreams” is sure to be enjoyed by students and parents alike.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grade 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in central Ohio. His iPod ranges from jazz to classic and alternative rock, symphonies, and classic songs from Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. His interests include comic books, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, football and hockey (especially the Steelers and Penguins), and all things Pittsburgh.

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