2025 NEW POPS for Concert Band Thursday, March 06, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Billy Joel in Concert arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
With a catalog spanning 50 years and more than 150 million albums sold, Billy Joel’s music lives in the Pantheon of rock and roll. This amazing medley for concert band showcases some of his most iconic hits that will be loved by everyone from the grandparents to musicians. Titles include: “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” and “You May Be Right.”
Born to Run arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
This burning arrangement of the classic Springsteen hit has all of the fire and power of the original. Driving percussion and perfect scoring will bring the audience out of their seats. The saxes get to play the iconic Clarence Clemons solo. A hit!
Bye Bye Bye arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 2
The signature hit from the iconic boy band NSYNC is available here in this fun and highly accessible arrangement for young concert bands. Percussion and low brass create the infectious dance groove while the winds capture the unforgettable melody. The musicians will love this just as much as the parents.
Deadpool’s Playlist arr. Carol Brittin Chambers, Grade 3
A perfectly arranged medley of chart topping hits from the hit movie series including “Hells Bells,” “Like a Prayer,” “Iris,” “Take on Me,” and more!
Penny Lane arr. Chris Dedrick & Chris Coletti, Grade 4
The Canadian Brass’ iconic rendition of Lennon and McCartney’s “Penny Lane” has become a must-play arrangement for brass quintet featuring solo piccolo trumpet. This arrangement by Chris Dedrick has now been further adapted for two solo trumpets and wind ensemble.
MacArthur Park arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
This iconic song that has been a hit over many decades and every genre from country to disco and even featured in the 2024 film “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” is available here with this amazing arrangement for concert band. Starting off as a rock ballad it transitions to a driving double-time rock feel that builds in intensity before returning to a ballad feel that brings it home with relentless energy and emotion. All sections have great and engaging parts. This one will bring the house down!
Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
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!