I Wan'na Be Like You (The Monkey Song): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
By Robert B. Sherman / By Richard M. Sherman / Arranged by John Berry
Grade: 2
Item: 35-PK00158037
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Description
From Disney's "The Jungle Book" and more recently recorded by artists such as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Los Lobos and Smash Mouth, this lively song remains popular with all age groups. Here is an easy chart written in a light Latin style. The melody is passed around to various sections of the band and there are short solos for trumpet and alto sax.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00158037
More about this title
About the Composer: Robert B. Sherman
Robert B. Sherman and his brother Richard M. Sherman formed one of the most prolific songwriting partnerships in American popular music. Between them, they composed hundreds of songs for Disney films, television shows, and stage productions, earning multiple Academy Award nominations and establishing themselves as masters of melody that appeals across generations.
Their work exemplifies the craft of writing singable, memorable material that serves both entertainment and educational purposes. For music educators, the Shermans' catalog offers accessible, engaging repertoire that students recognize and enjoy learning.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures the playful irreverence of the source material while keeping the chart lean enough for groups still building their ensemble skills. John Berry's light Latin treatment gives students a genuine taste of swing and pop sensibility without overwhelming them with complexity; the section-to-section melody passing keeps everyone engaged and invested in the performance.
What to expect
Lighthearted and infectious, with the easy charm of a Disney melody smoothed into a Latin groove. The arrangement breathes with the swagger of a band having fun, not trying too hard, just swinging it right.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the early intermediate level who want a fun, recognizable tune that doesn't require advanced harmonic reading or rhythmic sophistication. This works equally well for groups tackling their first exposure to Latin jazz vocabulary and for more experienced ensembles looking for reliable concert or festival material.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the Latin feel by keeping the rhythm section relaxed and groove-oriented rather than metronomic; let the swing develop naturally through the drummer's pocket.
- Feature the trumpet and alto sax soloists prominently in rehearsal so they develop confidence and personality in their statements; these moments are what listeners remember.
- Shape the melodic phrases with clear phrasing and light articulation, especially when the melody moves between sections; this prevents the piece from feeling choppy.
How to use it
Open a concert with this to establish an upbeat, accessible tone and draw in audiences unfamiliar with jazz ensemble repertoire. Pair it with more challenging material later in the set to show range and depth, or use it as a spring concert closer that leaves people smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Latin rhythmic vocabulary and the feel of a light samba or mambo groove
- Sectional melody passing and melodic coherence across instrument transitions
- Solo construction and improvisation concepts through the trumpet and alto sax features
- Ensemble swing and ensemble blend in a popular music context