Flex-Ability: Pops: Trumpet/Baritone T.C. Book

The four-part scoring here solves a real scheduling problem: you can field an ensemble from players at wildly different proficiency levels and have everyone contributing meaningfully. The song selection spans genres kids actually want to play, from Soul Man to Eye of the Tiger, which makes sectional rehearsals feel less like work.

Energetic and grounded. These are singable melodies with rhythmic swagger—La Bamba moves, Eye of the Tiger hits hard, and Celebration lives up to its name. The arrangements respect the original grooves while staying transparent enough that younger players can find their place without getting lost.

Band and brass directors working with mixed-level trumpet and baritone sections, particularly in middle school settings or heterogeneous high school groups. Studio teachers who coach multiple students at different advancement stages will find this invaluable for group lesson repertoire.

• Balance the four voices so the solo line remains audible without the harmony parts receding into silence. López's lower parts aren't filler; they anchor the texture.
• Assign part distribution strategically. The level 1 part (whole notes, half notes, quarter notes only) is perfect for newer players who still need rhythmic confidence; don't relegate it to a punishment slot.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to lock ensemble intonation and tempo, especially when parts overlap rhythmically or when the arrangement sits in a tricky range for one instrument family.

Program this as a mixed-instrument feature at a pops concert, or use individual songs as sectional repertoire throughout the year to build ensemble cohesion in your brass section. The 11-song collection gives you flexibility to rotate pieces into your rehearsal schedule without committing to a full-length presentation.

• Reading and executing four-part harmonic voice leading
• Balancing solo and accompaniment textures
• Playing at appropriate volume and register within a four-voice ensemble
• Rhythmic independence across different part complexities
• Intonation control across different skill levels playing simultaneously