This fusion rock chart features rhythm section and can also showcase electric guitar. A great way to add a pop element to your program, this piece is also an ideal vehicle to feature your alto or tenor sax player in an improvised solo section. Memorable melodies and a groovin’ bass line will leave a lasting impression on both students and audience!
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Ryan Fraley knows how to write a groove that works in a concert band setting without sacrificing musicianship. The piece balances accessibility with genuine fun, giving you the rare opportunity to program something contemporary that doesn't feel like a compromise. Your students will want to play this one again and again.
What to expect
Modern and purposeful rather than gimmicky. The memorable melodies and grooving bass line anchor the fusion elements so the piece feels cohesive, not scattered. There's a confident pop sensibility here that respects both the ensemble and the audience.
Who it's for
Bands looking to program accessible repertoire with contemporary energy and genuine musical substance. Grade 3.5 directors who want to showcase strong section soloists while giving the full ensemble an engaging, stylistically varied experience.
How to get the most out of it
Lock the rhythm section (drums, bass, keyboard) before rehearsing the full ensemble; their precision sets the pocket for everything else
Shape the alto or tenor sax solo with the soloist beforehand so they understand the underlying groove and harmonic structure, even if their improvisation stays fresh each performance
Keep the tempo steady and deliberate during rehearsal; students often rush fusion figures when they feel energized
Balance the electric guitar part so it colors the texture without overwhelming the band's foundation
How to use it
Pair this with a standard classical work and a ballad to create programming that shows your band's range and contemporary literacy. It works especially well in a spring concert where you want to demonstrate growth and stylistic maturity without abandoning the core concert band sound.
Skills your students will build
Locking into a steady groove and understanding rhythm section roles
Reading and executing fusion and rock rhythmic figures in 4/4
Accompanying and supporting an improvised solo section
Balance and blend in a mixed instrumentation context (acoustic and electric instruments)
Style and articulation specific to fusion and contemporary popular music
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