If I Can't Have You: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Polished and energetic, with the infectious groove that made the original a radio staple. The arrangement maintains the pop sensibility while giving concert band its own character, creating something that feels fresh to student musicians without being stripped of musicality.

Concert bands at the Grade 2-2.5 level who want to program contemporary pop repertoire without sacrificing musical substance. Directors looking for material that connects with students while reinforcing articulation clarity will find solid pedagogical value here.

• Lock in the staccato passages with crisp attacks and clean releases. The clarity of those articulations is what drives the infectious energy of this arrangement.
• Balance the tenuto figures against the staccato sections so each articulation type reads as intentional and distinct, not as uneven playing.
• Lean into the rhythmic groove in the low reeds and brass. This arrangement thrives when the foundation feels locked, not stiff.
• Give the melodic material room to breathe in the upper voices. The tune is the hook, so let it sing over the rhythmic accompaniment.

Pair this with one ballad and one classical or wind band standard to create a program that reflects your ensemble's range. The contemporary appeal makes it an excellent opener or closer for concerts aimed at building audience enthusiasm for band music.

• Distinguishing staccato and tenuto articulations in context
• Maintaining rhythmic precision in syncopated pop grooves
• Balancing melodic material over rhythmic accompaniment
• Executing clean articulation changes at faster tempos