Rock Sticks: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Infectious and lighthearted, with a swinging rock attitude that keeps the familiar melody interesting. The slow-tempo groove and steady percussion foundation create something between a novelty act and a genuine musical moment, designed to stick in listeners' heads long after the final chord.

Beginning concert bands looking to energize their repertoire with something playable yet distinctive. This Grade 1 arrangement works for middle school ensembles and younger high school groups still building fundamental skills, while remaining engaging enough that even experienced bands enjoy the novelty and rock treatment.

• Establish the swing feel in the rhythm section before bringing in the melody instruments. Lock the kick drum and bass line together first, then layer in the snare and hi-hat pattern.
• Listen carefully to the recorded accompaniment (available separately) to nail the laid-back pocket that makes this arrangement breathe. The tempo marking should feel relaxed, not rushed.
• Balance the Chopsticks melody so it sits comfortably above the rock groove rather than fighting it. Underplay slightly in the opening sections to build excitement toward any climactic moments.
• Let the percussion parts sing. These are character voices in a rock arrangement, not just timekeeping; young musicians need to understand they're shaping the song's feel, not following the melody.

Pair this with either contrasting classical or contemporary concert repertoire to show your band's versatility and sense of humor. It works particularly well as a closer on a concert where you want to leave the audience smiling and energized, or as a palette cleanser between heavier, more serious pieces.

• Reading and playing swing eighth-note rhythms
• Understanding rock drumming patterns and groove-based time keeping
• Balancing melody against a steady rock rhythm section foundation
• Listening to and locking with percussion parts
• Playing with appropriate stylistic articulation for rock music