Funny Bones: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Story captures what makes a novelty piece work: genuine musicianship wrapped in humor that doesn't rely on cheap tricks. Giving the trombone section the spotlight with a rock groove while keeping the difficulty at Grade 1 means your whole band gets something rewarding to play, and your bones get their moment.

Upbeat and playful with serious musicianship underneath. The rock groove gives it swagger, and when the trombones strut their stuff, the whole band feels like they're in on a joke. It's energetic without being obnoxious, funny without being condescending.

Any concert band director looking for a piece that energizes rehearsal without talking down to students. Grade 1 means younger or developing ensembles can access real musicianship and humor at the same time. It works equally well as a concert opener or a morale booster mid-season.

• Let the trombones own their featured passages. Encourage them to lean into the swagger of the rock groove rather than playing it safe.
• The glissandos should sound intentional and clean, not like mistakes. Brief rehearsal time on pitch control during slides pays off.
• Balance matters in the rock sections. The rhythm section drives the piece, so lock that pocket tight before adding the melodic layers.

Program this early in a concert to set an energetic tone, or use it as a palette cleanser between heavier works. It's also an excellent piece for pep band or pop concert contexts where the rock flavor and trombone feature add personality without demanding extensive rehearsal time.

• Rock groove phrasing and articulation
• Glissando control and intonation
• Section balance in featured passages
• Rhythmic precision in syncopated figures