From the hottest movie soundtrack to come along in years, here is the dynamic opening number from "The Greatest Showman". The opening anthem-like strains lead to an up-tempo chorus with plenty of excitement and drive.
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Paul Murtha has spent decades crafting arrangements that capture the energy of contemporary music while respecting the capabilities of student ensembles. His work across multiple genres and instrumentation settings has made him a trusted voice in music education publishing, known for accessibility without sacrificing musicality.
Why we love this
Murtha nails the swagger of this anthem without overcomplicating the parts. Your marching band gets to feel the theatrical momentum of the original while managing the technical demands at grades 3 and 4, which is exactly where most programs need that kind of crowd-pleasing material.
What to expect
The piece moves from a grand, processional opening into high-energy celebration. There's theatrical flair built into the arrangement, with enough momentum to carry visual elements without demanding advanced technical prowess from every section.
Who it's for
Marching bands at the grades 3 to 4 level looking for contemporary repertoire that audiences recognize and students genuinely want to perform. This works equally well for programs building a modern show or for directors seeking a standalone opener with proven audience appeal.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the opening strains with deliberate dynamic control to establish the ceremonial character before the chorus kicks in; resist the temptation to push volume too early.
Lock the rhythmic precision in the chorus because the up-tempo drive depends entirely on crisp articulation and locked ensemble playing.
Balance the melodic voices so that the primary line cuts through without burying the countermelody; test this in stationary rehearsals before movement.
Treat the dynamic contrasts between sections as dramatic moments, not just volume changes; each shift should feel intentional and theatrical.
How to use it
Open a concert with this to set an immediate tone of entertainment and accessibility, especially effective if your program includes other contemporary or film music. It also serves as an energizing opener for a marching show when you need something recognizable that builds confidence early in the season.
Skills your students will build
Balancing melodic clarity against supporting voices
Executing dynamic contrast at controlled tempos
Maintaining rhythmic precision in up-tempo sections
Responding to theatrical phrasing and shaping over structural repetition
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