Two, by George: 1st F Horn

Jason Scott's arrangement captures the infectious energy of these Gershwin standards while keeping the technical demands minimal, so your beginning band can sound polished and confident from the first rehearsal. The pairing of "I Got Rhythm" and "Strike Up the Band!" gives you two recognizable, crowd-pleasing tunes in a single concert slot, and the straightforward voicing means your young musicians stay focused on playing together rather than wrestling with complex part writing.

Bright, energetic, and immediately likable. These Gershwin tunes carry the swagger and optimism of American popular song, with syncopated rhythms and jazzy harmonic touches that feel fresh and modern even after nearly a century. The arrangement maintains that character while keeping the technical landscape open and inviting for younger players.

This arrangement serves beginning concert bands that want to perform recognizable, engaging repertoire without lengthy rehearsal time. Grades 1 and 2 players will find the part writing accessible while still developing their sense of musical style and ensemble balance.

• Keep the tempo steady and buoyant in both tunes; Gershwin's melodies thrive on rhythmic precision, and even at a brisk pace, younger players will stay secure if you establish a clear, unwavering pulse from the downbeat.
• Balance melody and harmony carefully so the signature Gershwin lines shine through without getting buried; mark your score to identify which sections carry the tune and which provide support.
• Emphasize the march-style character in "Strike Up the Band!" with crisp articulation in the low reed and brass parts, which will give the whole band definition and forward motion.

Open a concert with this piece to set an upbeat, accessible tone, or pair it with other pop-style arrangements to showcase your band's versatility beyond classical standards. At under two minutes, it works well as a suite-opener or as part of a shorter pops program alongside other easy-level crowd-pleasers.

• Steady ensemble pulse and collective rhythm control
• Balance between melody and harmonic accompaniment
• Crisp articulation and stylistic interpretation in march and jazz-influenced idioms
• Quick ensemble preparation and confidence in shorter rehearsal time