Push It Sheet Music Preview

Push It: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts

Words and music by Herbie Azor / arr. Nick Baratta

Grade: 3

Item: 00-PK-0009246

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Description
One of the most recognizable hooks ever written is the basis for this fresh new arrangement of the classic hip-hop tune from Salt-n-Pepa. Nick Baratta throws in a few new twists, and the strong scoring will make any band sound great! (1:20)

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Additional Details
Series: Mega Sounds
SKU: 00-PK-0009246

More about this title

About the Composer: Herbie Azor

Herbie Azor co-wrote "Push It" with Cheryl James and Sandra Denton of Salt-n-Pepa in 1986, creating one of hip-hop's most iconic and enduring hooks. The track became a defining moment in rap music history, demonstrating Azor's ear for memorable melody and rhythmic precision that would influence popular music for decades.

As a producer and songwriter working at the intersection of hip-hop and mainstream pop, Azor shaped the sound of 1980s and 1990s music. His work with Salt-n-Pepa helped bring rap into radio rotation and dance clubs worldwide, proving that hip-hop could be both artistically credible and commercially successful.

Why we love this

Nick Baratta's arrangement honors the original's infectious energy while translating it brilliantly for marching band instrumentation. The Grade 3 scoring allows strong execution without obscuring the song's instantly recognizable hook, making this a crowd-pleaser that excites students and audiences alike. Modern pop hits at this level tend to feel generic; this one captures the swagger and attitude of the source material.

What to expect

Instantly recognizable and undeniably fun. The signature hook sits in your head the moment it enters, while the arrangement's fresh twists keep it from feeling like a straight transcription. There's attitude and swagger built into every measure, a confidence that comes from music designed to move people on a dance floor.

Who it's for

Marching bands seeking contemporary repertoire that resonates with students and crowds alike will find this arrangement hits the mark. Directors programming grade-level appropriate pop music can count on a piece with genuine musical credibility and ear appeal. This works for groups ready to tackle modern idioms with confidence.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock in the signature rhythmic syncopation that makes the hook distinctive. Precision here is everything; even slight rushing or dragging undermines the track's identity.
  • Balance the front ensemble's layers with the rest of the band so the melodic hook cuts through without overwhelming the harmonic foundation.
  • Commit to the attitude. This isn't a gentle pop ballad. Let the rhythm section drive the energy, and have the full band support that forward momentum.
  • Check Baratta's scoring for his original twists and highlight them in rehearsal so students understand what's fresh about this version versus the original recording.

How to use it

Position this as a show-closing or second-to-closing number when you want the audience energized and smiling. It pairs well with other contemporary pop arrangements in a themed set, or it can stand alone as a palate cleanser between classical or traditional selections. The 1:20 duration makes it flexible for concert programming or field show segments.

Skills your students will build

  • Syncopated rhythm reading and execution
  • Playing with deliberate stylistic attitude and dynamic control
  • Balancing independent melodic lines against a driving rhythmic foundation
  • Responding to arranger choices that reinterpret familiar source material

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