Birds of a Feather (arr. Roger Holmes): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Roger Holmes captures the song's understated cool and hypnotic groove while keeping the arrangement accessible for Grade 3 ensembles. Young musicians connect immediately to material they recognize, and this arrangement channels that engagement into genuine musicianship without sacrificing the track's signature atmosphere.

The arrangement captures the song's moody, hypnotic quality and low-slung groove. Rather than relying on volume or complexity, it channels Eilish's whispered delivery and minimalist production into something that feels introspective and deliberately restrained.

Jazz ensemble directors with Grade 3 ensembles looking to program contemporary material that resonates with student interest. This works equally well for younger ensembles seeking exposure to modern production sensibilities and rhythmic sophistication.

• Establish the pocket early in rehearsals by isolating the rhythm section and locking the kick drum pattern before layering melodic voices
• Balance the main melody against supporting lines; Eilish's delivery thrives on space and restraint rather than volume
• Pay attention to the recorded reference if available to absorb the song's phrasing and dynamic contours, especially the subtle vocal inflections

Position this as a feature in a jazz concert to showcase your ensemble's ability to handle contemporary material with nuance. It also pairs well with classic standards on the same program, creating an engaging contrast that demonstrates the breadth of jazz repertoire.

• Maintaining groove and pocket within a pop-influenced jazz context
• Responding to understatement and dynamic control rather than relying on volume
• Reading and performing syncopated rhythmic figures over a steady beat
• Balancing independent lines within an ensemble texture
• Interpreting contemporary popular music through a jazz ensemble lens