Evil Ways: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts

Propulsive and groovy from the downbeat. The arrangement captures Santana's Latin-rock DNA with accessible voicing, making it feel contemporary and energetic while remaining playable for young ensembles.

Marching bands in their first or second year of competitive shows, or any group looking to build confidence with a recognizable, radio-friendly hit. The Grade 2 level means newer players can succeed without feeling simplified.

• Lock the backbeat. The hip factor lives in the syncopated rhythms, so drill the off-beat accents in the low brass and reeds until they feel automatic.
• Balance the trumpet solo carefully. It's written out, but it should sing over the ensemble without overpowering the groove underneath.
• Treat the cues and musical hits like a rock band would. Precision timing on the ensemble punches makes the chart snap.

Slot this into a show that blends classic rock with contemporary appeal, or use it as a crowd-pleaser opener that instantly connects with audiences. Its straightforward difficulty makes it ideal for early-season programming when rehearsal time is limited.

• Executing syncopated rhythms and off-beat accents
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in a groove-based context
• Reading and performing written-out solos with proper phrasing
• Ensemble precision with musical cues and dynamic hits