John Williams in Concert (arr. Paul Lavender): Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Paul Lavender's arrangement captures the grandeur and accessibility of these iconic themes while respecting what makes each one immediately memorable. At Grade 3, this medley gives students the joy of playing music they actually know and love, which transforms rehearsal energy and engagement in measurable ways.

Pure cinema in concert form. The medley sweeps from the wonder of E.T. through the swagger of the Imperial March and into the primal tension of Jaws, delivering the kind of immediate emotional payoff that reminds musicians why they love this art form.

Concert bands at the Grade 3 level looking for repertoire that energizes both players and audiences. Directors seeking programming that celebrates film and television music without sacrificing musical substance.

• Balance the melodies so they punch through the accompaniment. In a medley like this, clarity of line matters more than volume.
• Use the tempo relationships between movements to create momentum. Each theme should feel distinct, not rushed.
• Shape phrases with intention even in short sections. Williams' melodies are built for emotional clarity, so give each one breathing room.
• Lock the ensemble on rhythmic figures in the accompaniment parts; the transitions between themes rely on precision here.

This works beautifully as a standalone concert opener or as the anchor of a themed program exploring music in other media. The familiarity of these themes makes it ideal for community concerts or events where you want broad audience appeal alongside genuine musical engagement.

• Phrasing and dynamic shaping within a medley structure
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in different instrumental sections
• Maintaining consistent articulation across style changes
• Executing smooth transitions between thematic material
• Responding to Williams' use of orchestration and color in a band context