Tops in Pops: Book

Davidson curates a collection that spans genuine hits across genres and eras, so students recognize the melodies they're playing from the first rehearsal. The embedded teaching tips transform what could be a simple songbook into a comprehensive guide; you're not just getting arrangements, you're getting her classroom strategies built right into the score.

Playing from this collection feels like a celebration of music students already love. You'll hear the warmth of "Lean on Me" and "Stand by Me" alongside the infectious energy of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" and the gentle beauty of "Ashokan Farewell." The arrangements sit comfortably on Orff instruments, letting students focus on musicmaking rather than struggling with the page.

This book serves elementary music teachers and Orff specialists working with grades 4-8 ensembles who want immediate, classroom-ready arrangements of recognizable songs. Students benefit from playing tunes they actually know, which accelerates learning and builds confidence on percussion instruments.

• Use the variety of titles to rotate through different musical styles and moods during rehearsals, keeping student engagement fresh across the 48 pages
• Layer the arrangements by difficulty if your ensemble has mixed ability levels; many titles work as solos, duets, or full ensemble pieces
• Encourage students to listen to original recordings of these songs before rehearsal so they internalize the melody and style before sight-reading

Build a concert around these titles as a "Greatest Hits" showcase that audiences of all ages will recognize and enjoy. Pair this book with your existing Orff curriculum to give students regular playing experience with literature that holds their interest; the breadth of styles means you can find appropriate selections for spring concerts, holiday programs, or end-of-year celebrations.

• Reading notation on Orff instruments (barred percussion layout)
• Playing melodic and rhythmic ostinatos with accuracy
• Ensemble balance and listening to blend within a percussion group
• Interpreting style and character of different song genres
• Coordinating multiple percussion lines in unison and parts