Getaway/September (arr. Paul Murtha): Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Earth, Wind Fire / Arranged by Paul Murtha / Arranged by Will Rapp
Grade: 4
Item: 35-PK00463084
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Description
Here is a terrific closing production featuring the exciting brass and percussion strains of "Getaway" followed by the infectious hit "September". Paul drives it hard all the way to the end.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00463084
More about this title
About the Artist: Earth, Wind Fire
Earth, Wind & Fire shaped the sound of funk and soul across five decades, blending horns, keyboards, and polyrhythmic grooves into a signature style that made them one of the most successful bands in music history. Their catalog showcases what's possible when horn sections drive the arrangement, making their music particularly valuable for teaching marching ensembles how to balance rhythmic precision with infectious groove.
Why we love this
This medley capitalizes on two of Earth, Wind & Fire's most recognizable hits back to back, giving your closer immediate crowd connection without sacrificing musicality. The arrangement respects what made these songs memorable while tailoring the writing for the marching ensemble's strengths, especially in the brass section where the real energy lives.
What to expect
You get the propulsive, celebratory momentum of a tune built on horn stabs and crisp rhythmic punctuation, then shift into the irresistible, laid-back groove that made "September" a cultural touchstone. The medley captures both the drive and the funk, trading excitement for infectious ease.
Who it's for
Marching bands seeking a finale that combines authentic funk and soul energy with accessible Grade 4 arranging. This works for groups wanting to program contemporary popular music that still respects musicianship and doesn't rely on novelty or comedy.
How to get the most out of it
- Build intensity gradually through the "Getaway" section by layering brass entrances; resist the urge to punch everything at full volume from the start, which flattens the arc toward the transition into "September."
- Lock the percussion subdivision with the brass kick patterns in both tunes; this partnership anchors the groove and prevents the tempo from drifting during the busier passages.
- Shape the melodic lines in the horn sections with dynamic contrast rather than uniform strength. The original recordings succeed because individual parts have profile and shape, not because everything is loud.
- Emphasize the rhythmic hits at section endings to punctuate the form; these moments signal transitions and give the ensemble collective confidence through the medley.
How to use it
Deploy this as a high-energy closer on competitive shows or summer concert programs where you want to send the audience out grinning. It pairs well after more classical or concert repertoire, giving audiences a moment to connect with music they already know and love.
Skills your students will build
- Maintaining steady groove and pocket feel across sectional transitions
- Balancing rhythmic precision with musical phrasing in funk-based arrangements
- Reading and executing syncopated rhythms in mixed note values
- Achieving blend and balance within the brass section across multiple dynamic levels
- Understanding how medley form works and executing clean section transitions