Timber: Concert Band Conductor Score

Michael Story's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without overwhelming a developing band. The optional drumset part gives students a genuine taste of contemporary pop production, and the Grade 2 scoring keeps the fun accessible while maintaining musical integrity.

Fresh, propulsive, and grounded in a steady groove. The western-influenced touches add unexpected color to the dance-pop foundation, creating an arrangement that feels current while remaining straightforward enough for younger players to execute cleanly.

Developing concert bands looking to program contemporary pop that connects with students and audiences alike. The Grade 2 level works for middle school bands or younger high school groups, and the accessibility doesn't sacrifice the authentic flavor of the original.

• Lock the rhythm section early. The groove drives everything, so get your percussion and low brass locked before layering in the melodic voices.
• Balance the optional drumset carefully. If you use it, make sure it sits underneath the band's sound rather than dominating the mix.
• Keep the tempo steady and energetic. This arrangement thrives on rhythmic precision and forward motion.

This works beautifully as an energetic closer or opener on a concert, offering a sharp contrast to standard classical or traditional pop fare. It's equally effective on a pops concert or as a bridge piece between classical and contemporary repertoire.

• Maintaining steady groove and rhythmic precision
• Reading and executing contemporary pop rhythmic figures
• Balancing melody and rhythm section in a non-traditional ensemble context
• Responding to optional instrumentation (drumset) without losing ensemble cohesion