Choose Your Fighter: String Orchestra Conductor Score

Bernotas has distilled the infectious drive of the original recording into idiomatic writing for strings without losing any of the tune's swagger. The arrangement lands at exactly the right level for Grade 2.5 groups, it's playable but never feels like a dumbed-down version.

Bright and propulsive, with a contemporary pop sensibility that feels fresh on the concert stage. The melody has genuine hooks, and the rhythmic accompaniment drives forward with the kind of momentum that keeps audiences leaning in.

String orchestras at the Grade 2-3 level looking to program something current and engaging without sacrificing musicianship. This works equally well for groups wanting to connect with student interests or for directors seeking a pop arrangement that doesn't require extensive rehearsal time to sound polished.

• Lean into the rhythmic precision of the accompaniment figures; they're what give this arrangement its pop energy. Tight articulation in the viola and cello lines will make the melody sing out.
• Treat the 2:20 duration as an asset. This piece has strong pacing and doesn't overstay its welcome, making it ideal for concert flow.
• Balance the melody with restraint. The original is heavily produced; your arrangement should let each line breathe rather than trying to recreate studio thickness.

Pair this with a classical selection to create a modern-meets-traditional concert half. It's also a natural choice for a pop-themed concert series or as an encore that lands with immediate audience recognition and energy.

• Precision in syncopated rhythmic figures
• Balance between melody and rhythmic accompaniment
• Stylistic execution of contemporary pop phrasing
• Maintaining groove and groove consistency across multiple parts