The Wizard of Oz, Highlights from: Concert Band Conductor Score

This medley captures four of Arlen's most iconic melodies in an arrangement that respects both the source material and the capabilities of a young band. Michael Story's scoring balances clarity with musicality, keeping textures lean enough for Grade 2 ensembles to execute cleanly while preserving the emotional core of each song. Programming it opens doors to conversations about American musical theater and gives your students a chance to perform genuinely beloved music rather than generic filler.

Stepping into the world of Oz through Arlen's melodies feels like traveling through a familiar story with fresh ears. The arrangement sparkles with the lightness of a movie musical while grounding you in songs so well-crafted they feel inevitable. There's genuine warmth in this music, especially in "Over the Rainbow," balanced by the playful energy of the other tunes.

This score works for young concert bands building confidence in lyrical playing and musical storytelling. Grade 2 ensemble directors who want substantial, recognizable repertoire that doesn't talk down to their students will find this medley engaging for both players and audiences.

• Shape each melody as a vocalist would, with a clear sense of phrase and breath. The four songs here are all lyrical at heart; even in the faster sections, maintain singing tone and direction rather than rushing through note values.
• Balance melodic lines carefully when they move between sections. In a Grade 2 ensemble, it's easy for the lead voice to be drowned out. Rehearse vertical balancing in passages where the melody sits in the middle voices.
• Pay attention to style shifts within the medley. "Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead" has a different character than "Over the Rainbow." Use tempo, articulation, and dynamic shaping to help the band feel these transitions and keep the performance from sounding flat.
• Lock in the rhythmic foundation early. The accompaniment figures in this piece are straightforward but essential; secure them so the melodic lines can sing freely above them.

This medley works beautifully as a bridge between concert and pops programming, allowing young bands to perform material with real cultural weight while maintaining audience accessibility. The 4:05 duration makes it ideal as a centerpiece on a lighter concert or as a contrasting selection on a program with more serious works. Consider pairing it with other accessible contemporary or popular arrangements to create a concert that showcases your ensemble's musicality without overwhelming their technical capacity.

• Sustained legit singing tone across all ranges and registers
• Musical phrasing in lyrical contexts and understanding where melodies breathe
• Balancing melodic lines against supporting voices and accompaniment figures
• Responding to style and tempo shifts within a single piece
• Awareness of how familiar melodies can be shaped and arranged for ensemble performance