The Best of Big and Easy, Volume 2: Quad-Toms Book

This collection pulls some of Story's sharpest work into one focused book. The quad-toms parts are genuinely musical—not just timekeeping or effects. You get 15 instantly recognizable tunes that audiences respond to immediately, all arranged at a level that lets your percussion section shine without overwhelming them.

These arrangements capture the fun and energy of pop and rock standards alongside classic television and movie themes, all filtered through an accessible lens. The quad-toms parts are active and engaging—players feel like they're driving the groove rather than filling space.

Marching band directors looking for straightforward, audience-friendly repertoire with solid percussion writing. Quad-toms players at Grade 2 level who want rewarding parts that contribute clearly to the overall sound without requiring advanced technique or reading skills.

• Focus on the relationship between quad-toms and drumset. These parts are written to interlock, so spend rehearsal time locking the groove between the two players rather than treating them as independent voices.
• Use dynamics to shape phrasing across the tunes. The quad-toms often carry counter-rhythms or fills that should breathe with the melody, not sit at one volume throughout.
• Pay attention to mallet choices for different charts. Softer mallets on tunes like 'Sleigh Ride' and 'Manhattan Beach' will help the quad-toms blend; harder mallets work better for the funk and rock pieces.
• Start rehearsals with the recorded reference if available. Hearing the intended groove and orchestration first helps performers understand where their parts live in the full arrangement.

Build a pop or standards concert around this collection and you've got an entire show's worth of recognizable material. The Grade 2 level makes it perfect for a spring concert or community performance where you want strong audience connection without sacrificing musicianship.

• Reading and executing part-independent rhythms (quad-toms parts separate from drumset patterns)
• Interpreting style and feel across multiple genres (funk, rock, swing, pop)
• Controlling mallet technique for dynamic range and tone color variation
• Listening and locking with other rhythm section players, particularly the drumset
• Building confidence on percussion instruments beyond snare and bass drums