Don't Stop Me Now (arr. Paul Murtha): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Paul Murtha captures the essential character of this Queen track while keeping the technical demands reasonable for Grade 3 players. The arrangement balances accessibility with authenticity, allowing young musicians to experience the energy and anthem quality that made the original unforgettable.

The arrangement captures the theatrical arc of the original: intimate and soulful at the top, then explosive and driving in the middle before settling into a reflective close. There's real momentum and emotional payoff here, not just a by-the-numbers transcription.

Jazz ensembles at the Grade 3 level looking for repertoire with built-in energy and audience appeal. Directors want pieces that feel contemporary and fun while remaining within their students' technical reach.

• Feature your best alto saxophonist in the opening solo; this is their moment to shine with a lyrical, expressive sound before the tempo accelerates.
• Mark the tempo transition clearly in rehearsal. The shift from slow to fast needs to feel intentional, not abrupt, so work the groove into the uptempo section gradually.
• Balance the full band hit carefully during the fast section. Everyone plays, but the saxes should cut through without the rhythm section losing definition.
• Return to that reflective quality in the final slow section. Avoid rushing the finish; let it breathe and resolve with control.

Pair this with other rock-influenced arrangements on a pop or crossover concert to appeal to students and audiences beyond your traditional jazz program audience. It also works well mid-year when your ensemble has developed enough cohesion to handle the tempo changes with confidence.

• Managing significant tempo changes (slow to fast to slow again)
• Balancing solo spotlight with ensemble responsibility
• Articulation clarity in the fast, rhythmic sections
• Dynamic control across contrasting sections
• Listening for pitch blend when full band hits together