Combo Blasters for Pep Band: Guitar Book

Wasson's arrangements let you build genuine pep band energy with minimal forces. The rock rhythm section parts give students real groove to lock into, and having 14 recognizable tunes in one book means you're always ready for game day, pep rallies, or impromptu performances.

These arrangements breathe with the swagger of classic rock and soul. From the patriotic opening of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' to the infectious bounce of 'Macarena' and the raw power of 'Smoke on the Water,' each tune captures its original spirit while fitting the marching band energy you need.

Pep band directors who need reliable, energizing charts for events throughout the school year. Guitar players in competitive marching bands or spirit ensembles will find parts that sit comfortably on their instrument while delivering the rock and funk sound that resonates with crowds.

• Lock the guitar part tightly with the bass and drums (or the included accompaniment CD) to establish a solid pocket; the rhythm section drives these rock-flavored arrangements
• Nail the articulation on the funk and soul tunes like 'Soul Man' and 'Gimme Some Lovin'' to capture that signature groove
• Use the accompaniment CD during rehearsals when you're short a rhythm section, then swap in live players once your chart is solid

Build a pep band setlist by clustering these tunes thematically: open with patriotic and swing material (Banner, Sing Sing Sing, Sweet Georgia Brown), move into funk and soul (Soul Man, Gimme Some Lovin'), and close with high-energy rock (Smoke on the Water, Tequila). The flexibility to scale from four players to full band makes these charts useful for everything from halftime shows to informal pep rallies.

• Locking rhythm with a groove-oriented rhythm section
• Reading and playing in rock and funk idioms
• Adapting articulation and phrasing to match soul and rock conventions
• Sight-reading from flip-folio format under live performance conditions