Megalovania (arr. Paul Murtha): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Toby Fox / Arranged by Paul Murtha
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00441372
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Description
Quirky and featuring a bit of a "retro" sound, this uptempo theme is immediately recognizable to anyone in the gaming world. Solidly scored with plenty of drive and excitement, this will definitely add a little fun to your next concert.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00441372
More about this title
About the Artist: Toby Fox
Toby Fox is a composer and game developer best known for creating the indie video game Undertale, which became a cultural phenomenon through its innovative storytelling and memorable soundtrack. His compositions blend chiptune aesthetics with orchestral sensibilities, creating music that resonates across gaming communities and beyond. Fox's work has demonstrated that video game music deserves serious artistic consideration and can translate effectively to live performance contexts.
Why we love this
Paul Murtha's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original while making it immediately playable for a Grade 3 ensemble. The orchestration balances accessibility with genuine sophistication, giving every section meaningful material without overwhelming young players. Students and audiences alike respond to this piece because it bridges their musical worlds and takes their concert seriously.
What to expect
Propulsive and lean, with a synth-driven palette that nods to 8-bit aesthetics while delivering full ensemble sound. The uptempo groove carries an almost playful determination, as if the piece is racing forward on sheer momentum and confidence.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who want repertoire that energizes student musicians and connects to their world outside the band room. Directors seeking a concert piece that's accessible without sacrificing musicality will find a reliable option here.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock in the groove early. The rhythmic momentum drives everything, so nail the tempo and pocket before worrying about polish.
- Balance the synth lines against the horn section. Murtha's scoring calls for clarity in the reeds and brass, so let those voices carry the tune while rhythm section stays locked.
- Attack the marked accents with purpose. The retro video game character comes through when staccato notes hit cleanly and articulation feels intentional.
- Keep the energy from downbeat to final note. This piece lives on momentum, so sustain intensity even during softer passages.
How to use it
Drop this into a pops concert or a program exploring contemporary music and popular culture. It works particularly well as a set opener where you want to grab attention immediately or as a closer that leaves the audience smiling and energized.
Skills your students will build
- Maintaining groove feel and subdivisions in a syncopated jazz context
- Balancing rhythmic precision with forward momentum
- Articulation control across staccato and legato passages
- Reading unison and sectional lines with rhythmic independence
- Listening for clarity when multiple syncopated layers occur simultaneously