Ain't No Mountain High Enough: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts
By Valerie Simpson / By Nickolas Ashford / Arranged by Jay Bocook
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00133479
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Description
Motown is back! And Jay Bocook brings all the excitement to the marching arena in this rockin' arrangement. The moderate tempo makes it perfect for dance features.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00133479
More about this title
About the Composer: Valerie Simpson
Valerie Simpson co-wrote some of Motown's most enduring hits alongside Nickolas Ashford, crafting songs that balanced infectious grooves with genuine emotional depth. Her work as a songwriter and vocalist helped define the sound of 1960s and 70s soul music, with "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" becoming a crossover phenomenon that introduced Motown sensibilities to mainstream audiences across genres.
Why we love this
Jay Bocook's arrangement captures the relentless energy of the original without overwhelming a Grade 3 ensemble. The moderate tempo gives students room to execute clean technique while still delivering the swagger and drive that makes Motown instantly recognizable, making this a rare pop arrangement that teaches as much as it entertains.
What to expect
Effortless groove meets disciplined execution. The arrangement radiates the optimism and forward motion that defined Motown's golden era, with enough rhythmic sophistication to keep student musicians engaged while the moderate tempo lets them breathe and perform with confidence.
Who it's for
Any Grade 3 marching band looking to program repertoire with immediate appeal and strong pedagogical bones. This works equally well for programs building confidence with accessible pop literature or for experienced ensembles who want crowd engagement without sacrificing musical integrity.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the groove locked between the snare line and bass drums; the rhythmic pocket is what separates a good performance from a great one.
- Balance the melody against the accompaniment figures so the tune stays on top. Motown's strength lies in its clarity, and every part should enhance rather than muddy that signature sound.
- Use the moderate tempo as permission to nail articulation and dynamics. The arrangement's accessibility means your focus can be on precision instead of survival.
How to use it
Consider this for a summer park concert or community festival where you want your audience moving along with the band. It pairs well in a show built around American music history or nostalgia, and the accessibility makes it a strong closer that leaves crowds genuinely happy.
Skills your students will build
- Maintaining consistent groove and pocket across full ensemble
- Balancing melody against rhythmic accompaniment figures
- Executing clean articulation at moderate tempos
- Understanding and performing pop/soul rhythmic idioms
- Responding to the energy and style requirements of non-classical genres