Smallfoot: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Michael Story's arrangement transforms three film songs into a through-played medley that flows seamlessly without losing any song's character. The Grade 2.5 voicing keeps parts accessible for developing bands while maintaining the upbeat energy and harmonic substance that makes the film versions memorable. Band students respond immediately to material drawn from contemporary media they know, and this package delivers that engagement without compromising musical value.

Bright, forward-moving, and genuinely uplifting. These three songs pulse with an optimistic warmth that reflects the film's themes while remaining celebratory rather than sentimental. The arrangement bounces along with natural grace, inviting performers to play with a sense of lightness and joy.

This arrangement sits comfortably for bands with developing technical skills but solid ensemble fundamentals. It works equally well for middle school groups ready to tackle spring repertoire and high school bands seeking engaging material for recruiting or pops concerts. Directors looking for material that energizes both performers and audiences will find this medley does exactly that.

• Keep the tempos light and conversational between movements; avoid dragging at transitions or allowing the energy to drop as you move from one song into the next.
• Balance the melody throughout your sections so soloists and featured parts don't overshadow the harmonic foundation. Layer dynamics by ensemble rather than individual lines.
• Pay attention to articulation markings in the original voicing; consistency in tonguing and release across similar phrases creates polish and forward momentum.
• Use the full dynamic range available at this level. The piece lives in a bright, optimistic register, but contrast between sections will keep the performance from sounding flat.

This medley is ideal for spring concerts where an uplifting, contemporary sound complements more traditional repertoire. Its hopeful character makes it particularly effective in recruiting events aimed at younger students or community audiences unfamiliar with band literature. The four-minute duration and accessible level allow you to program it confidently as a full-ensemble closer or standalone feature.

• Sustaining rhythmic clarity across three distinct musical ideas within a single piece
• Responding to articulation and release control as ensemble communication tools
• Balancing melody and harmonic support within sections and across the full band
• Managing tempo consistency and stylistic phrasing in contemporary song arrangements