Murder Most Musical: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Featuring: Miss Marple Main Theme / Agatha Christie's Poirot
Miss Marple Main Theme composed by Ken Howard and Alan Blaikley; Agatha Christie's Poirot composed by Christopher Gunning / arr. Douglas E. Wagner
Grade: 2 (Medium-Easy)
Item: 00-PK-0008116
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Description
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About the Composer: Ken Howard
Ken Howard has shaped the sound of British television for decades, crafting memorable themes and incidental music that define some of the medium's most iconic moments. His gift for melody and orchestration made him a natural fit for Agatha Christie adaptations, where the music needed to capture both elegance and suspense.
Why we love this
Douglas E. Wagner's arrangement captures the sophisticated character of these television themes while keeping the band writing accessible and engaging. The interplay between sections, particularly the featured alto saxophone line in the second tune, gives every player a moment to shine without overwhelming a Grade 2 ensemble.
What to expect
Elegant mystery wrapped in accessible orchestration. The themes evoke the composed restraint of classic British television, where tension builds through harmonic color rather than volume or speed. A dash of theatrical sophistication elevates a young band's concert presence.
Who it's for
Young concert bands ready for program music that sounds professional and finished. The Grade 2 level makes this accessible for developing ensembles while the source material and clever arrangement keep performers engaged.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the opening with clarity in the lower voices; the mystery emerges from a solid harmonic foundation, not rushing the melody forward.
- Let the alto saxophones own their featured moment in the second theme with warmth and poise, treating it as a spotlight rather than a solo.
- Shape the phrases in both themes with a gentle arc; these are refined television themes, not martial fanfares.
How to use it
Perfect for a Halloween or mystery-themed concert, or program it in a "Music from Television" context where it sits naturally alongside other recognizable themes. At just over two and a half minutes, it works as a strong opener or an intermission piece that leaves the audience smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Balanced section playing and harmonic awareness
- Phrasing in lyrical, non-march contexts
- Featured solo playing (alto saxophone)
- Nuanced dynamics and ensemble blend