Ride: Concert Band Conductor Score

Victor López's arrangement opens the melody to your entire band while keeping the energy and hook that made "Ride" a chart hit. A Grade 1 rock selection that actually respects young players' abilities and delivers the satisfaction of performing something current and recognizable.

Propulsive and direct. The track carries the radio-friendly confidence of its original recording—straightforward grooves, accessible melodies, and a sense of forward momentum that keeps the band and audience moving together.

Beginning and developing concert bands seeking contemporary material that works across a wide range of ability levels. Directors programming pop and rock can count on this arrangement to engage students who connect with modern artists while maintaining musical and pedagogical integrity.

• Lock the rhythmic pocket early. The groove depends on steady eighth-note subdivisions in the rhythm section; establish that foundation in sectional rehearsals before pulling the band together.
• Highlight the solo passages. Several players get featured moments; give those players space to shine and remind the ensemble to support with clean, unobtrusive backgrounds.
• Shape the dynamic arc across the full 1:45. This is a single-take performance; plan where energy builds and where it pulls back so the form stays clear and engaging.

Pair this with other accessible pop titles for a contemporary-focused concert, or use it as a high-energy opener to grab audience attention. The brevity and immediate hook make it ideal for pep rallies, community events, or any program where you want students playing something they actually listen to outside of rehearsal.

• Reading and executing rock rhythms and grooves
• Balancing sectional independence with ensemble cohesion
• Sustaining consistent tempo across a shorter, radio-length form
• Performing accessible solo passages with confidence