Into the Unknown (from Disney's Frozen 2) (arr. Paul Murtha): Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Paul Murtha's arrangement captures the song's theatrical sweep without losing the introspective moment that makes the original so compelling. The orchestration gives every section a moment to shine, and the Grade 3 difficulty means your students can tackle something genuinely powerful without requiring advanced technique. Band students recognize this melody instantly, which creates real engagement from the first rehearsal.

Somewhere between vulnerability and strength. The song invites introspection at first, then gradually builds conviction, moving from questioning into determination. It's the kind of piece that can quiet a gymnasium full of people, not through silence but through collective focus.

Concert bands at the intermediate level looking for film music that carries genuine dramatic weight. Directors programming family concerts or school performances will find this resonates with audiences of all ages. Students respond to repertoire they know, and this arrangement makes that connection meaningful rather than gimmicky.

• Balance the melody between sections so no single voice dominates; the power of this song comes from the unified emotional statement, not any single line standing apart.
• Shape the phrasing in longer arcs rather than phrase-by-phrase. Let tension build across entire sections before releasing into cadences.
• Mark dynamic transitions in your parts before rehearsal. The journey from introspection to declaration needs careful gradation, not sudden jumps.
• Pay attention to the recorded versions; hearing how Idina Menzel and Panic! At The Disco interpret the phrasing gives your students a reference point for the emotional intention.

Pair this with other film or contemporary music to create a thematic set that appeals to families beyond the typical band concert audience. It works equally well as an opening number that establishes emotional tone or as a closing piece that leaves lasting impact. Consider programming it in the second half of your concert when your ensemble has settled into their sound.

• Sustaining long-phrase musicality over multiple measures
• Dynamic control across a full range (pp to ff)
• Section balance and blend in fuller harmonic textures
• Responding to emotional narrative arc in contemporary music
• Tuning and intonation in sustained chords