Shallow (from A Star Is Born) (arr. Paul Murtha): Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Paul Murtha's scoring textures transform a contemporary pop hit into a piece that genuinely works for young ensemble players. The arrangement respects the emotional arc of the original while giving different sections meaningful solo moments, which keeps all your players engaged without overwhelming anyone.

The arrangement glides from intimate vulnerability to shared intimacy. It opens with lyrical simplicity, gradually gathering voices and warmth, building toward a moment of collective expression that feels earned rather than forced. Throughout, the scoring preserves the song's emotional honesty while honoring the capabilities of developing musicians.

Bands at the Grade 2 level looking for contemporary repertoire that bridges film, popular music, and concert band traditions. Directors seeking pieces that appeal to student musicians and audiences alike, with manageable technical demands but genuine emotional content.

• Balance the opening flute solo by having the band play at a dynamic level that allows the melody to sing without strain; this sets the intimate tone the piece requires.
• Shape the horn and saxophone passages with careful attention to phrase contour; resist the urge to play straight through, as these sections benefit from subtle rubato.
• Lock the brief trumpet solo with the accompaniment by rehearsing it separately first, then gradually integrating it with reduced ensemble dynamics so the soloist's line projects clearly.
• Build the final ensemble section gradually, bringing in voices in waves rather than all at once, which mirrors how the arrangement is orchestrated and creates a more sophisticated swell.

Program this alongside other film and popular arrangements in a concert celebrating contemporary music, or use it strategically as a concert opener that immediately engages both players and listeners. The accessible difficulty level makes it ideal for mid-season programming when you want a polished, satisfying piece without the rehearsal intensity of more advanced works.

• Balancing solo lines against accompaniment textures
• Shaping phrases in contemporary pop idiom
• Managing dynamic contrast within Grade 2 technical constraints
• Interpreting scoring that mixes instrumental colors and textures