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Enter Sandman: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts

By Lars Ulrich / By Kirk Hammett / By James Hetfield / As performed by Metallica / Arranged by Paul Murtha

Grade: 3

Item: 35-PK00133594

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Description
From heavy metal masters Metallica, this 1991 hit has become a rock standard. This powerful arrangement features a moderate tempo and a hard-driving rock feel.

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
SKU: 35-PK00133594

More about this title

About the Composer: Lars Ulrich

Lars Ulrich co-founded Metallica in 1981 and has served as the band's drummer and primary songwriter throughout their four-decade career. His approach to composition blends precise rhythmic architecture with raw emotional power, creating songs that translate across musical contexts and generations of listeners. As both a performer and creative force, Ulrich shaped the sound of heavy metal while maintaining a keen interest in how his work adapts to different ensembles and arrangements.

Why we love this

Paul Murtha's arrangement captures the relentless groove and iconic riff that made this song instantly recognizable while keeping the technical demands at a realistic Grade 3 level. Your students will feel the visceral satisfaction of playing something genuinely cool, not a watered-down novelty version. The moderate tempo and hard-driving rock feel make this a natural crowd-pleaser that energizes both performers and audiences.

What to expect

Propulsive and confident. The hard-driving rock feel creates momentum that pulls the listener forward, underpinned by that unforgettable riff that defines the song. There's an energy here that feels contemporary and urgent, nothing stuffy or academic about it.

Who it's for

Marching bands seeking repertoire that connects with modern audiences and keeps students engaged by performing music they actually know and love. This arrangement works for groups with developing ensemble cohesion who benefit from learning a song built on recognizable riffs and accessible musicianship.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock the pulse as a section first. The hard-driving rock feel depends on collective rhythmic tightness, so spend rehearsal time on unison rhythms before layering in the harmonic parts.
  • Bring out the iconic riff wherever it appears. This melody is instantly recognizable; don't let it get buried under accompanimental texture.
  • Balance the low brass and percussion carefully. Rock arrangements live in the pocket between drums and bass, so make sure those voices communicate clearly without overwhelming the melodic lines.
  • Sustain the intensity from top to bottom. A rock arrangement demands consistent energy; avoid letting dynamics sag during transitional or accompanimental sections.

How to use it

This works beautifully as a modern opener or closer on a concert, giving your audience an immediate jolt of recognition and energy. Pair it with classic or contemporary wind band repertoire to show the range of your ensemble's musical voice, or program it alongside other rock or pop arrangements to build a thematic set that demonstrates how varied marching band literature can be.

Skills your students will build

  • Playing a consistent pulse within rock/contemporary style (as opposed to concert band phrasing)
  • Balancing riff-based melodic material against harmonic accompaniment
  • Ensemble precision at moderate tempos with driving rhythmic figures
  • Reading parts that sit outside traditional concert band ranges and voicings

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