Motown Closer (arr. Tom Wallace): Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Smokey Robinson / As performed by The Miracles / As performed by Linda Ronstadt / Arranged by Tom Wallace
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00435583
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Description
The conclusion of the MOTOWN theme show is capped off by the elegant and soulful "Tracks of My Tears" by legendary Smokey Robinson. A beautiful rendition of the melody is followed by a powerful and moving chorus - an appropriate ending for an impressive and entertaining show featuring some of the greatest pop/soul music ever produced.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00435583
More about this title
About the Artist: Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson stands as one of the most influential songwriters and vocalists in American popular music. As the driving creative force behind The Miracles and a key figure at Motown Records, Robinson crafted some of the most enduring melodies of the 1960s and beyond, blending sophisticated harmonic sensibilities with deeply human storytelling.
His work as a songwriter and producer shaped the Motown sound itself. Robinson's ability to write songs that balance commercial appeal with genuine emotional depth made him a model for generations of musicians. His compositions remain staples in music education because they teach arrangement, vocal phrasing, and the art of memorable melodic writing.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures what makes the original resonate: a clear, singable melody paired with rich harmonic support that lets young musicians feel the sophistication of Motown songwriting. Wallace's orchestration for marching band gives students the chance to perform a legitimate pop standard rather than a simplified version, building confidence in both ensemble balance and stylistic awareness.
What to expect
Elegant and introspective at first, then gradually building toward something warmer and more affirming. The melody unfolds with the kind of graceful inevitability that Robinson perfected, and the ensemble writing captures the soul aesthetic without relying on clichéd arrangements of pop music.
Who it's for
Directors looking for a concert closer that genuinely entertains audiences while giving students meaningful musical content. The Grade 3 scoring makes it accessible to mid-level bands without sacrificing the soulful character that makes the original unforgettable.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the melodic line carefully during the opening statement. The clarinet and trumpet voices need to blend rather than compete, even as other sections support underneath.
- Shape the phrase endings with slight tempo relaxation in the chorus. This mirrors the original's emphasis on emotional resonance over strict metric precision.
- Listen for the groove in your drum line. The pocket matters more than perfect alignment; let the rhythm section breathe.
- Commit to dynamic control in the softer moments. Grade 3 literature often tempts directors to push volume for excitement, but this arrangement rewards restraint.
How to use it
Close a concert with this piece when you want to leave the audience moved rather than merely impressed. It works especially well at the end of a thematic show, or as the final selection in a program that celebrates popular music. The emotional arc makes it ideal for spring concerts where you're building toward a satisfying finish.
Skills your students will build
- Balance between melodic voices and harmonic accompaniment
- Phrasing and rubato in popular music styles
- Reading and executing syncopated rhythms authentic to soul music
- Dynamic control and restraint in ensemble passages