Cups (When I'm Gone) (from Pitch Perfect): E-Z Play Today

This arrangement captures the infectious energy of a viral moment while remaining genuinely playable at an accessible level. Students recognize it immediately, which means you get real engagement and motivation, and the five-page length makes it substantial enough to feel like a complete piece without overwhelming early intermediate pianists.

Energetic and percussive with a modern pop sensibility. The arrangement captures the inventiveness of using cups as percussion while maintaining a pop piano accompaniment that feels contemporary and playful.

Early intermediate pianists who want to learn something current and recognizable. It works equally well for students preparing for recitals, school performances, or simply building enthusiasm for their instrument through familiar material.

• Keep the rhythm crisp and precise through the percussive cup sections; think of the piano as part of the rhythm section rather than the melody carrier
• Balance the vocal line (if singing along) against the accompaniment so the cup rhythms remain audible and integral to the arrangement
• Pay attention to dynamic shifts between verses and the chorus; let the energy build gradually rather than staying at one volume throughout

Include this in a popular music or film music showcase concert alongside other movie soundtrack selections. It also works as a fun solo recital piece that draws audience recognition and keeps energy high in a program.

• Rhythmic precision with syncopated accompaniment patterns
• Playing percussive, staccato rhythmic figures while maintaining melodic continuity
• Balancing accompaniment patterns against a vocal or melodic line
• Reading and interpreting contemporary pop arrangements