Ramp It Up: Concert Band Conductor Score

Hodges writes with a clear understanding of what first-year bands need: strong foundational parts that don't require advanced technique, yet genuinely engaging musical content. The rock idiom speaks directly to young musicians' interests, and his deliberate focus on percussion and bass line creates transparency and confidence across the ensemble rather than burying inexperienced players in dense texture.

Energetic and contemporary, with a strong backbeat and driving bass that anchor everything around them. The piece channels the confidence and attitude of skateboarding culture through straightforward rock language, making it feel contemporary without requiring advanced technical skills.

Directors of beginning concert bands and Grade 1 ensembles who want accessible repertoire with genuine musical style. Students benefit from playing an actual rock composition rather than a simplified march or traditional concert piece, building immediate investment in the music.

• Lock the percussion section and bass line first in sectional rehearsals. Once these players understand their rhythmic and harmonic role as the 'foundation,' melody players will find their parts sit naturally on top without rushing or dragging.
• Keep the energy consistent through the melodic sections by having accompaniment parts maintain steady articulation and dynamics. Young players often fade when they're not holding the tune, but this arrangement depends on their presence.
• Avoid the temptation to slow down during the rock groove. The repetitive figures in the bass and drums thrive at a confident tempo that lets the style breathe.

Ideal for a fall concert opening that energizes audiences and players alike. The rock style pairs well alongside a lyrical ballad or folk-inspired piece to create a varied program, and it works especially well if your band will perform other contemporary or pop-influenced repertoire during the season.

• Rock style playing with consistent groove and backbeat articulation
• Part independence in layered textures (maintaining accompaniment while other sections have melodic material)
• Rhythmic precision in ensemble contexts without relying on a conductor's beat
• Confidence performing contemporary music idioms