Funkytown: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Ralph Ford's arrangement strips away none of the groove while keeping the instrumentation accessible for young players. A Grade 1.5 chart that actually sounds fun to perform and listen to is rare; this one nails that balance by maintaining the song's unmistakable energy without burying anyone in technical demands.

Infectious and irresistible. The arrangement captures the propulsive funk of the original with bright horns, a driving rhythm section, and that unforgettable melodic hook that makes everyone want to move. Two minutes of pure energy that leaves both players and listeners smiling.

Beginning and early-intermediate concert bands looking for a rock chart that maintains student engagement and actually sounds current. It works equally well for students who grew up with classic pop and those discovering the song for the first time through this arrangement.

• Lock the pocket with your rhythm section first. The bass and drums are what sell this tune, so spend rehearsal time getting that groove locked before layering in the melody and countermelodies.
• Avoid dragging the tempo. Young bands have a natural tendency to slow down on funkier material, especially in the groove sections. Use the recording as a reference for the intended feel.
• Balance the melody across sections. The hook gets passed around; make sure every section that carries it has it equally present so the tune stays recognizable throughout.
• Shape the dynamics around the song's natural peaks. The piece builds energy, so resist playing everything at the same level. Let the arrangement breathe.

Program this as a crowd-pleaser on a concert celebrating rock and pop hits, or pair it with other Grade 1-2 contemporary pieces to show the range of what a concert band can perform. The 2:00 duration makes it ideal for filling a program slot or closing a shorter set with maximum impact.

• Groove-based ensemble playing and maintaining steady pulse against syncopated figures
• Trading melodic lines between sections and maintaining clarity in layered arrangements
• Balancing funky articulation with precision attacks
• Reading and executing dynamic contrast in contemporary pop contexts