Choose Your Fighter: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Chris M. Bernotas has nailed the arrangement here, keeping the infectious energy of the original while respecting Grade 2.5 players. The catchy melody translates beautifully to concert band without losing what made this song a hit, and the accessible scoring means your entire ensemble can contribute meaningfully rather than watching sidelines.

From the first note, this piece radiates infectious optimism and forward momentum. The melody sits naturally on concert band instruments, and Bernotas's orchestration captures that shimmering, bold energy the original recording delivers, creating something that feels both current and genuinely fun to play.

Grade 2.5 concert bands looking for contemporary, high-energy repertoire that connects with student musicians. This arrangement works for schools seeking approachable pop arrangements without sacrificing musical substance or ensemble engagement.

• Keep the pulse tight and consistent; this tune's power comes from a solid rhythmic foundation. Lock in with your rhythm section and hold them accountable at every rehearsal.
• Emphasize the lift and bounce in the melody line. This is a pop tune that needs personality, not a classical march. Encourage your players to feel the groove.
• Balance the melodic material across sections so no single line dominates. Blend is essential when passing the hook between woodwinds and brass.
• Let the dynamic shape breathe naturally. Resist over-conducting; sometimes the arrangement's own momentum does the work for you.

Program this as an opener or closing number to bring instant crowd engagement and showcase your band's range beyond traditional concert fare. It pairs well with a mixed concert structure, offering a sharp contrast to classical works while keeping the energy high and the audience invested.

• Playing with rhythmic precision in contemporary pop idioms
• Balancing and blending melodic lines shared across multiple sections
• Maintaining consistent pulse and groove in non-march contexts
• Interpreting style and articulation cues specific to pop/rock writing