Bone-a-fied: HybridNOW Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Sheldon captures the feel of a novelty number without relying on gimmicks or empty humor. The jazz and R&B harmonic language gives your young musicians something genuine to navigate, the three featured solos create real incentive for section development, and that trombone writing is the kind that makes players actually want to come to rehearsal.

Infectious and laid-back, with the easy confidence of a jam session. Calypso rhythms float over soul and R&B harmonies that feel current and energetic without demanding virtuosity.

Grade 2 bands ready for something beyond straight concert fare, especially those with standout soloists in the brass section. It works well for groups developing jazz sensibility and rhythmic nuance without needing advanced sight-reading skills.

• Feature the three soloists in sectional rehearsals before full ensemble work. Their parts carry the melodic weight, so make sure each player owns their role before integrating with the ensemble.
• Lock the rhythm section into the Calypso and soul feels early. These styles need rhythmic pocket work, so isolate your trombone, euphonium, and tuba section to dial in the groove.
• Let the quirky character breathe. Resist over-rehearsing into perfection; this piece thrives when players feel the fun of the fusion and play with rhythmic freedom.
• Balance the R&B sections with clear articulation from the whole band. When the harmonic language gets funkier, cleaner tonguing makes the chords land with more punch.

Pair this with your concert opener or place it in the second half to shift the mood and energy of your program. It earns enthusiastic applause from family audiences and works equally well in a spring concert or contest setting where judges appreciate writing that engages young ensembles without condescension.

• Jazz and soul harmonies (tertian chords with altered extensions)
• Calypso and R&B rhythmic feels and groove consistency
• Solo performance confidence in a supportive ensemble context
• Balance and blend across mixed harmonic textures
• Sectional independence while maintaining ensemble cohesion