Pop Charts in the Flex-Band Series Friday, March 05, 2021
You won’t run out of options for fun and flexible pop pieces
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
NEW FOR 2021
I’m Still Standing arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
Elton John’s upbeat and tuneful hit is as popular today as ever. Arranged here in a shuffle style with flexible scoring.
MORE TO EXPLORE
The Addams Family Theme arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
From just the opening four notes and two finger snaps, you know immediately that you are in for a good time with this arrangement of the classic TV theme.
Best of the Beatles arr. John Moss, Grade 2-3
The music of the Fab Four never grows old! Here is a terrific medley of hits playable with a flexible instrumentation. Titles include: “Ticket to Ride,” “Hey Jude,” and “Get Back.”
Bohemian Rhapsody arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Almost a complete concert in itself, this familiar Queen classic never fails to bring down the house!
Born to Be Wild arr. Michael Sweeney, Grade 2-3
Classic ’60s rock from the group Steppenwolf.
Coldplay Classics arr. Michael Brown, Grade 2-3
The music of the popular band Coldplay continues to be an enduring force in the contemporary pop music scene. Here is a well-paced and great-sounding medley of their biggest hits. Titles include: “Clocks,” “Paradise,” and “Viva La Vida.”
Evil Ways arr. Paul Lavender, Grade 2-3
Made famous by the group Santana, this is Latin/Rock at its best.
Eye of the Tiger arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2-3
Powerful rock anthem recorded by Survivor in 1982, and also featured in the movie “Rocky III.” Always a favorite!
Feel It Still arr. Michael Brown, Grade 2-3
This unique pop hit from Portugal. The Man features a retro pop style with a catchy bass riff and strong melody. Easy to learn and scored for flexible instrumentation, this is a fun choice for any pops concert.
Hallelujah arr. Michael Brown, Grade 2-3
This landmark ballad by Leonard Cohen has been recorded by countless artists, and continues to be featured in TV and film, notably in the movie “Shrek.” Here’s a marvelous version with flexible scoring options for smaller groups.
Hooked on a Feeling arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Featured prominently in the blockbuster movie “Guardians of the Galaxy,” this enjoyable arrangement for flexible instrumentation is based on the ’70s recording by Blue Swede.
Journey in Concert arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Few rock bands from the 1980s can boast the level of popularity and parade of hits produced by the band Journey. This terrific medley for flexible instrumentation includes “Any Way You Want It,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Separate Ways.”
Jump, Jive an’ Wail arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2-3
Originally recorded by Louis Prima, but also a bit hit for the Brian Setzer Orchestra, this hoppin’ tune epitomizes the energetic jump swing style.
Michael Jackson Hit Mix arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2-3
Still the king of pop, Michael Jackson’s music still resonates with current pop culture and musical tastes. Here is a terrific medley of landmark hits from his early solo career. Titles include: “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Bad,” and “Thriller.”
Queen on Stage arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
The powerful music of rock band Queen remains as relevant and recognizable as ever. This exciting medley for flexible instrumentation includes the timeless hits “We Will Rock You,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” and “We Are the Champions.”
Radioactive arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Not many contemporary rock songs exhibit the staying power of this recent hit recorded by Imagine Dragons. Here’s a great-sounding version for flexible instrumentation that goes together easily.
Respect arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 3
Show a little respect for the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, with this solid arrangement of one of her signature hits. This one sounds great with flexible instrumentation or smaller groups.
Seven Nation Army arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Recorded by The White Stripes in 2003, this familiar rock hit has become a favorite at sporting events. Paul’s energetic arrangement for flexible instrumentation features the signature bass line riff along with a hard-driving style throughout.
Smoke on the Water arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
One of the tried and true rock anthems of the ’70s, this gritty Deep Purple classic will be a blast to perform.
Superstition arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2-3
Stevie Wonder’s hit from 1973 remains as fresh-sounding as ever. Paul Murtha’s version for flexible instrumentation features a funky groove and all the signature riffs.
Thriller arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
Written in a format playable with just about any combination of instruments (including strings), here is Michael Jackson’s monster hit solidly scored by Johnnie Vinson.
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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, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, and hockey (especially the Penguins).