Shut Up and Dance Sheet Music Preview

Shut Up and Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

As Performed by Walk the Moon

Words and music by Ryan McMahon, Benjamin Berger, Nicholas Petricca, Sean Waugaman, Kevin Ray, and Eli Maiman / arr. Michael Story

Grade: 2 (Easy)

Item: 00-PK-0007164

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Description
This infectious tune is a catchy hit from the American indie-rock group Walk the Moon. Sure to generate a spontaneous sing-along with clapping and dancing in the aisles. This piece is great fun to rehearse and perform with a driving pulse and charismatic melody. So why don't you just "shut up and dance?" (2:15)

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Shut Up and Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Additional Details
Series: Pop Young Band
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 130
SKU: 00-PK-0007164

More about this title

Why we love this

This arrangement captures the irresistible energy of the original without losing any of its infectious appeal. Your band will feel the groove immediately, and audiences respond to the driving pulse and memorable hook every single time. It's rare to find a pop transcription at Grade 2 that respects both the source material and young musicians' ability to nail contemporary style.

What to expect

Propulsive and joyful, with the kind of swagger that makes you want to move. The piece balances accessibility with genuine musical flavor, letting young musicians feel like they're performing a radio hit rather than a student arrangement.

Who it's for

Concert bands at the Grade 2 level looking to connect with audiences through contemporary repertoire that students actually want to play. Directors seeking a confidence-building arrangement that delivers instant gratification without sacrificing musicianship or demanding extreme technical demands.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock the rhythm section (bass, drums, percussion) into a tight pocket during rehearsal; their precision makes everything else groove harder.
  • Shape the melody phrases with dynamic intent rather than playing it mechanically; the tune deserves the same phrasing attention you'd give to a classical line.
  • Balance the full band sound against the saxophone section's featured moments so the solo voice cuts through without overpowering the ensemble.
  • Build momentum through the second half by resisting the urge to drag; this piece thrives on forward motion and energy.

How to use it

Pair this with one or two additional pop selections to create a full modern music set, or use it as a high-energy closer that sends audiences out smiling. The 2:15 running time also makes it ideal for concert programs where pacing matters.

Skills your students will build

  • Playing with a steady pulse and rhythmic precision in a contemporary style
  • Balancing sectional independence within a cohesive ensemble sound
  • Executing clean articulation across changing dynamics and rhythm patterns
  • Responding to and maintaining energetic tempo without rushing

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