Combo Blasters for Pep Band: Part I (B-flat) (Trumpet, Clarinet) Book

The flip-folio format gives you genuine flexibility: these charts work with a skeleton crew or a full band, and the rhythm section can be live or replaced entirely by the included accompaniment CD. Wasson's smart voicings let your B-flat players shine on recognizable hits without requiring the complete instrumentation most pep band charts demand.

Pure energy and groove. These are crowd favorites and band favorites equally, delivered with straightforward rock and R&B sensibilities that let your players feel the fun of playing contemporary music in a marching band context. The arrangements don't overcomplicate the hits; they celebrate them.

Pep bands working with limited instrumentation or flexible roster sizes, schools that need reliable charts for game-day performances without arranging custom parts, and directors seeking upbeat, recognizable material that engages both players and crowds.

• Layer the accompaniment CD underneath your live rhythm section during rehearsal to lock the pocket before removing it for performance. This trains your players to feel the groove independently.
• Balance the trumpet and clarinet parts on the rock tunes by checking that both voices sit in the mix equally; the B-flat voicings can mask one instrument if players aren't aware of the blend.
• Teach the rhythm section the grooves from the recorded tracks first, then have your live rhythm players shadow the CD to internalize the pocket before performing live.
• Adjust tempos slightly based on your ensemble size. Smaller groups often feel more energetic at slightly faster speeds, while fuller bands may need space to breathe.

Build a high-energy pep band concert around this collection, or extract 3-4 selections for game-day performances when you need reliability and audience recognition. The mix of standards like The Star-Spangled Banner alongside rock staples makes it useful for both formal pregame ceremonies and casual spirit events throughout the season.

• Rock and R&B rhythm section playing (steady grooves and eighth-note feels)
• Reading and executing repeated section forms (verse-chorus structures)
• Balancing melody with harmony in chamber-like settings (4-player minimum)
• Flexibility with accompaniment (transitioning between live rhythm and recorded backing tracks)