Funny Bones: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Trombone Section Feature
By Michael Story and Robert W. Smith
Grade: 1 (Very Easy)
Item: 00-PK-0004624
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Description
Sure to tickle, "Funny Bones" features your trombone section strutting their stuff with the full band supporting their antics in a rock-groove fashion. A gliss here or there is sure to please. This one's a winner! This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Funny Bones: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Band Expressions
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
142
SKU:
00-PK-0004624
More about this title
About the Composer: Michael Story
Michael Story has established himself as a prolific composer for concert band, with a catalog spanning works from elementary through advanced levels. His writing balances accessibility with genuine musicality, making him a trusted voice for directors seeking repertoire that engages students without sacrificing musical integrity.
Why we love this
Story and Smith crafted a piece that gives trombones genuine solo territory without asking them to carry the entire musical weight. The rock-groove foundation keeps the band locked and energized, while the novelty elements (those strategically placed glissandos) reward your section's personality and precision in equal measure.
What to expect
Playful irreverence with a pocket-solid groove. The trombone section gets to strut and slide with confidence while the full band locks into a rock rhythm that feels modern and energetic, not stuffy or overly arranged.
Who it's for
This piece fits bands seeking a surefire crowd-pleaser with built-in engagement for younger players. At Grade 1, it's accessible to groups still developing fundamental skills, yet the rock feel and trombone spotlight keep rehearsals focused and fun.
How to get the most out of it
- Let the trombone section own their feature. They need confidence and presence in the rock groove, so rehearse them with the full band early and often so they trust the support underneath.
- Plant the glissandos. A well-placed gliss requires intentionality and control, not showboating. Have trombones practice the approach and landing note before sliding through.
- Lock the groove with your rhythm section. The rock feel only works if drums, bass, and low brass sit in a pocket together; rehearse them as a unit before full band rundowns.
- Let the novelty breathe. Humor reads better when there's space around it. Don't rush the punch lines or they'll land flat.
How to use it
Program this early in a concert when energy is high and the audience is in a good mood. It works beautifully as a closer to a first half or as a standalone moment that breaks up more serious programming and reminds listeners (and performers) why band is fun.
Skills your students will build
- Rock groove rhythmic feel and pocket awareness
- Glissando technique with control and intentionality
- Trombone section blend and intonation in featured passages
- Listening to and supporting a featured section within ensemble texture
- Ensemble synchronization in contemporary style contexts