Evil Ways: Flex Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Paul Lavender's arrangement captures the irresistible groove and bright, propulsive energy of the original without requiring a full instrumentation. The five-part flex format means you can actually field this with your current roster instead of waiting for the right combination of bodies, and students respond immediately to music this genuinely cool.

Propulsive and sunny, with the infectious Latin groove that made the original a standard. The arrangement radiates energy without veering into novelty; it feels authentic to the style and deeply satisfying to play.

Groups working with limited or mixed instrumentation who want repertoire with genuine musical substance. Any ensemble at Grade 2-3 level seeking high-engagement material that audiences actually recognize.

• Lock the clave rhythm in your percussion section before rehearsing the ensemble parts. This foundation makes everything else fall into place.
• Emphasize the Latin feel over straight rock time. The groove lives in the syncopation, not the downbeat.
• Balance the horn line so it cuts through without overpowering the rhythm section. This arrangement thrives on transparency.
• Record a rehearsal and play it back at tempo. Hearing themselves locked together builds confidence in younger players.

Program this in a concert celebrating rock and popular music, or use it as a palate cleanser alongside classical or contemporary concert works. It's also ideal for pep rallies, community outreach events, or any situation where you want an immediate connection with your audience.

• Latin rhythm fundamentals (clave patterns and syncopation)
• Sectional independence in rock/pop ensemble textures
• Articulation and phrasing in funk-influenced lines
• Listening for groove while reading notation