Pie In The Face Polka: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Henry Mancini / Arranged by Johnnie Vinson
Grade: 4
Item: 35-PK00223806
$80.00
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Description
From the classic movie "The Great Race" starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and Natalie Wood, here is a Mancini gem featured in the memorable and climactic pie fight scene. This entertaining arrangement can be used to feature the entire clarinet section, just a few players, or even a soloist. Optional section parts are also included. Dur: 2:45
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00223806
More about this title
About the Artist: Henry Mancini
Henry Mancini stands as one of the twentieth century's most prolific and versatile composers, with a career spanning film, television, and concert music. His gift for melody and orchestration made him a master of underscore, but his work transcends the screen; his themes and compositions have become part of the standard repertoire for wind ensembles and concert bands worldwide.
Mancini's ability to write music that entertains while remaining musically sophisticated has made his work ideal for educational settings. Directors appreciate that his pieces maintain genuine artistic merit even as they engage audiences with memorable, accessible melodies.
Why we love this
A polka with this level of charm and orchestral sophistication rarely lands in the concert band repertoire. Johnnie Vinson's arrangement preserves Mancini's comic timing and melodic elegance while offering genuine flexibility; you can feature your full clarinet section, pull out a smaller group, or spotlight a soloist depending on your ensemble's strengths and the impact you want. It's the kind of piece that reminds audiences why they love band concerts.
What to expect
Effervescent and buoyant, with the gentle sparkle of a polka that knows how to wink at the audience. The melody dances with infectious charm while the harmonic backdrop gives it substance and elegance.
Who it's for
Concert bands at the Grade 4 level looking for repertoire that combines entertainment value with solid musicianship. It works equally well for a director seeking a showpiece moment in a concert or for ensembles that want to explore light classical film music.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the clarinet figuration carefully against the supporting voices; the melody should sparkle without overwhelming the harmonic foundation.
- Maintain crisp articulation in the rhythmic accompaniment to capture the playful energy of the pie fight scene.
- If featuring a soloist, shape the line with gentle rubato during the quieter passages to let the character of the melody breathe.
- Coordinate dynamics between the optional and standard parts so that your chosen instrumentation feels integrated rather than added on.
How to use it
Position this piece in the second half of a concert where audiences have settled in and you want to lift the room with something unexpected and genuinely fun. It pairs well with other character pieces or lighter fare, and it's particularly effective as a closer since it leaves the audience smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Executing clean, articulate rhythmic figures in polka style
- Balancing featured melodic lines against accompaniment textures
- Responding to conductor nuance in light, comic musical material
- Navigating optional instrumentation and flexible scoring