NEW Young Band for Spring 2022 Tuesday, March 15, 2022
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Blinding Lights arr. Matt Conaway, Grade 2
This huge hit by The Weeknd features a driving pulse and an ‘80s retro style. Nicely arranged for young players this will sound great while providing motivation for your students.
Never Gonna Give You Up arr. Matt Conaway, Grade 2
Recorded by Rick Astley in 1987, this familiar rock hit has remained popular due in part to its prank value! Whether you choose to “Rick-Roll” your audience or just play it for fun, this is guaranteed to bring a smile.
You Can’t Stop the Beat arr. Michael Brown, Grade 2
From the hit musical “Hairspray,” here is an upbeat showstopper with a nice variety in scoring as the melody is passed from section to section. Characterizing a feeling of optimism and perseverance, this is sure to be enjoyed by all.
Baby Shark arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 1.5
Carefully arranged for second year players using just quarter notes and eighths, here’s an easy version of this catchy hit sure to be enjoyed by your students and audience alike.
The Mandalorian arr. Robert Longfield, Grade 1.5
Here is an easy arrangement of the powerful and gritty theme from this popular series. Written with modest ranges and no syncopation, this will go together quickly.
You’ll Never Walk Alone arr. Michael Sweeney, Grade 1.5
Young players sometimes need a lyric piece with built in emotional points and dynamic variety. This easy arrangement starts softly with just clarinets and F horn on the melody, then gradually builds to a powerful climax.
Wellerman arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 1.5
Now even young players can join the sea shanty fun with this easy arrangement. There is plenty of variety mixed in and even a melody spot for the low brass!
Curious Cobbler by Michael Oare, Grade 0.5-1
Imagine a slightly confused cobbler and his workshop of curious tools and gadgets. Michael Oare’s descriptive and clever work for beginning bands features a tuneful melody and special effects in the percussion section.
Songs of the Sea arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2.5
Sea shanties have long been a source of tuneful melodies and rollicking rhythms. Johnnie’s setting for band features a wide variety of styles and textures, and is a great choice for contest or festival. Included are traditional folk melodies from “The Drunken Sailor,” “The Bonnie Ship the Diamond,” “Rolling Down to Old Maui,” and “Wellerman.”
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About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 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, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.