MARCHING BAND 2024 Five Star Features Thursday, May 30, 2024
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Avalon arr. Dallas C. Burke, Medium Easy
This uptempo take on the jazz classic sits right in the pocket and swings hard while remaining playable.
Cartoon Hits! arr. Matt Conaway & Matt Finger, Grade 3-4
Including the popular themes from “Bluey,” “Doug,” and “Fairly Odd Parents,” this entertaining collection of hit cartoon themes is perfect for time-outs or short stadium blasts!
Choose Your Fighter arr. Doug Adams, Grade 2
With its catchy melody and driving percussion, singer Ava Max’s hit song from the “Barbie” soundtrack is a natural for marching band. The powerful scoring by arranger Doug Adams will make any band sound twice it size!
Dance the Night arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3-4
From the blockbuster movie “Barbie,” this driving hit recorded by pop star Dua Lipa is a great tune for the stands, or an entertaining dance feature.
Don’t You (Forget About Me) arr. Ishbah Cox, Grade 3
Some songs from the 80s never seem to grow old and this smash hit recorded by Simple Minds is certainly one of these. With its memorable melody and powerful drive, you won’t soon forget about this one!
Eye of the Tiger arr. Scott Boerma & Chuck Ricotta, Grade 3
Recorded by Survivor in 1982 for the movie “Rocky III,” this rock anthem has come to epitomize the emotion and drama of competition. Scott Boerma’s arrangement takes this hit to new levels of excitement for any sports arena!
Human Nature arr. Allen Gray, Medium Easy
This hit from Michael Jackson makes a powerful funky masterpiece that will make the press box tremble!
Lil Boo Thang arr. Jay Bocook, Grade 3
Initially popular as a TikTok sensation, Paul Russell’s “Lil Boo Thang” samples the 70s hit “Best of My Love” by The Emotions. This viral hit features a catchy tune and infectious dance groove.
Malaguena arr. Dallas C. Burke, Medium Easy
Dallas Burke delivers a take on the ultimate Latin opener that is truly fire from start to finish! There’s no better way to start a show!
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) arr. Matt Conaway & Matt Finger, Grade 3-4
Just try not to dance to this wildly infectious and exciting hit by Shakira. Originally recorded as the official theme for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the song is as popular as ever with nearly 4 billion YouTube views!
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About the Authors:
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.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!