Don't Cha: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Michael Story's Grade 2 arrangement captures the infectious groove and modern energy of this 2005 hit without oversimplifying the arrangement. Young band students get to play something they actually recognize and enjoy, which drives engagement and motivation in rehearsal. The moderately bright pop tempo and accessible scoring make this an ideal selection for building student confidence while programming contemporary music alongside traditional concert band fare.

Bright, modern, and irresistibly groovy. The arrangement delivers the signature bounce and sass of the original while maintaining the kind of straightforward instrumentation that young bands can execute cleanly. You get genuine pop energy without any loss of musicality.

Grade 2 concert bands looking to program a recognizable, energetic pop hit that engages young musicians and audiences alike. This works equally well for beginning high school bands or advanced middle school groups comfortable with contemporary grooves and syncopated rhythms.

• Lock the rhythm section early and separately. The groove depends on tight coordination between percussion and low brass, so rehearse these players as a unit before integrating with the full band.
• Emphasize the syncopated rhythms in the upper woodwinds without rushing. These figures define the pop character, but young players tend to anticipate the beat when the style is unfamiliar.
• Balance the lead melody line so it cuts through the groove without overwhelming ensemble texture. This piece works best when listeners can hear the hook clearly while enjoying the full band sound underneath.

Program this as an opener or second item on a concert to establish an upbeat, contemporary tone and capture immediate audience attention. It pairs well with a mix of traditional and pop-influenced repertoire, signaling to students and families that your program reflects current music culture. Consider this selection for pops concerts, awards festivals, or any concert where you want to showcase how band students engage with music they hear on the radio.

• Playing syncopated rhythms with rhythmic precision and groove feel
• Balancing melody and accompaniment texture in pop/rock arrangements
• Coordinating with a rhythm section to maintain consistent tempo and groove
• Interpreting contemporary articulation and style markings