Feel It Still: Concert Band Conductor Score

Michael Kamuf's arrangement captures the irresistible groove and energy of the original without losing the essential character that made this song a radio staple. At grade 1.5, it gives young bands access to contemporary music that genuinely excites them to play, and the driving rhythm section part keeps the ensemble locked together naturally. Your closer just became a moment your audience will recognize and your students will want to play again.

Propulsive and joyful. The song carries that irresistible pop energy that makes you move, with a hypnotic groove underneath that never lets go. It feels modern, fun, and celebratory without any strain on young players.

Directors programming for grade 1 and 1.5 bands who want repertoire that connects with students' actual lives and listening habits. This works equally well for concerts, community events, or festivals where you want to showcase your young ensemble playing something fresh and current.

• Establish the groove early in rehearsals by isolating the rhythm section and rhythm parts; the pocket drives everything, so lock the pulse before adding melodic layers.
• Balance the energy between sections so the piece doesn't sound thin or muddy. Young bands often pile on dynamics unevenly, so use sectional balancing exercises to find the sweet spot between clarity and drive.
• Shape the melody with a light articulation that sits on top of the groove rather than fighting it; too much weight in the upper woodwinds will drag the infectious character right out of the piece.

Close a concert with this and you'll send the audience out energized. The contemporary appeal makes it ideal for spring concerts, pops nights, or community outreach events where you want to bridge the gap between school music and what students actually listen to outside rehearsal.

• Maintaining rhythmic precision in syncopated, groove-based writing
• Playing as part of a cohesive rhythm section (steady pulse and pocket awareness)
• Balancing within sections while supporting the overall ensemble sound
• Interpreting modern pop idioms and articulation styles