A Dua Lipa Duo: Concert Band Conductor Score

Story captures the propulsive, rhythmic drive of these two Dua Lipa hits in a way that sits perfectly at the 2.5 level. Rather than oversimplifying or stripping away personality, he distributes the melodic and rhythmic energy across the band so that every section stays engaged, and the arrangement swings with genuine contemporary groove without requiring virtuosic technique.

Immediate, propulsive energy. These arrangements crackle with the synth-driven, dance-floor momentum of the originals, translated into acoustic band color. The first hit lands hard and confident; the second rides a relentless groove that keeps the ensemble (and audience) moving.

Band directors programming concert music for developing ensembles who want to connect with students through contemporary repertoire that sounds exciting without overreaching technically. This score works for groups at the 2.5 level and above, particularly those building confidence in pop and rock idioms.

• Lock the backbeat in the rhythm section (snare and bass drum) with precision; these pop grooves live on rhythmic pocket, and any looseness in the foundation undermines the whole arrangement.
• Shape the melodic phrases in the reeds and brasses with the original vocal inflections in mind; Story's orchestration mirrors Dua Lipa's phrasing, so reference the original recordings to capture the right contour and articulation.
• Balance the brass section carefully during tutti passages so trumpets don't overshadow the alto sax and clarinet lines that often carry secondary melodies.
• Keep the tempo steady and energetic throughout; these songs thrive on forward momentum, and any sluggishness flattens the excitement.

Program this as a high-energy middle concert piece to draw younger audiences and shift the mood after lyrical or classical selections. It pairs naturally with other pop arrangements at the 2-3 level and gives students a chance to experience that modern pop sound they actually hear on streaming platforms.

• Reading and executing rock and pop rhythmic figures (syncopation, sixteenth-note runs, groove-based phrasing)
• Balancing ensemble texture across mixed instrumentation (judging when to push forward vs. pull back in a non-traditional harmonic context)
• Capturing articulation and style in contemporary music (short vs. legato attacks, accent placement for rhythmic impact)
• Maintaining steady tempo in straightforward time signatures while executing syncopated melodic material