Born to Be Wild: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Steppenwolf / As performed by Mars Bonfire / Arranged by Johnnie Vinson
Grade: 2
Item: 35-PK00320582
$55.00
Pickup currently not available
Buy Extra Parts (Digital PDF Download)
| Product | Price | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Born to Be Wild - Full Score | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Flute | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Oboe | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bassoon | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Clarinet 1 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Clarinet 2 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Clarinet 3 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Eb Alto Clarinet | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Bass Clarinet | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Eb Alto Saxophone 1 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Eb Alto Saxophone 2 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Tenor Saxophone | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Eb Baritone Saxophone | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Trumpet 1 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Bb Trumpet 2 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - F Horn | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Trombone | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Baritone B.C. | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Baritone T.C. | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Tuba | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Convertible Bass Line | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Percussion 1 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Percussion 2 | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Mallet Percussion | $6.00 | |
| Born to Be Wild - Timpani | $6.00 |
Parts Added to Cart!
Description
When the group Steppenwolf made this a huge hit back in 1968, they probably did not foresee that it would also be a hit with young concert bands today. This rockin' arrangement is sure to liven up your next concert and motivate your players.
Dur: 2:00
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00320582
More about this title
About the Artist: Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf emerged from the Los Angeles rock scene in 1966, built on the foundation of John Kay's distinctive gravelly vocals and the band's blues-rooted, hard-driving sound. Their 1968 album "Steppenwolf" catapulted them to international prominence, anchored by "Born to Be Wild," a song that became synonymous with rock rebellion and freedom. The track's raw energy and unforgettable hook secured the band's place in rock history while introducing generations of listeners to the power of a straightforward, unapologetic rock anthem.
Why we love this
Johnnie Vinson's arrangement captures the swagger and drive of the original without overwhelming young players. Your band gets to own a genuine cultural touchstone that connects with students immediately, creating the kind of rehearsal energy that makes musicians want to show up. At Grade 2, the balance between accessibility and authentic rock character is nearly perfect.
What to expect
Pure, unfiltered rock momentum. The piece throbs with attitude and groove, carrying the defiant spirit of the original while staying within reach of developing musicians. Two minutes of unapologetic fun that reminds everyone why people love playing in bands.
Who it's for
Concert bands at the Grade 2 level looking for repertoire that energizes players and audiences alike. Directors programming pop and rock music alongside traditional concert band literature will find a clean, playable arrangement that respects both the original and the capabilities of younger ensembles.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the main riff with rhythmic clarity and slight separation rather than legato phrasing; this articulation is what gives the line its iconic edge
- Lock the bass line and kick drum together to establish the groove's pocket; that foundation supports everything else
- Keep the tempo steady and driving without rushing; the original sits around 120 bpm and the arrangement benefits from that confident pulse
- Let the solo sections breathe; if your arrangement includes any ad lib moments, encourage featured players to lean into the rock idiom rather than playing it safe
How to use it
Open a concert with this to grab immediate attention and set an electric tone, or program it late in the show as a closer that sends the audience out on a high. It pairs well with contemporary popular music arrangements and provides sharp contrast when placed alongside traditional wind band repertoire.
Skills your students will build
- Articulation control in rock style (separation vs. legato within groove contexts)
- Ensemble groove and rhythmic precision
- Stylistic interpretation beyond classical phrasing conventions
- Sustaining energy and character consistency in short-form pieces