U.Play.Plus: More Pops: Horn in F Book

López understands that a pop arrangement needs to sound fun without oversimplifying the harmonic language or horn writing. These ten titles range from rock classics to contemporary chart hits, and the two-line format means your section can swing as a melody-harmony pair or anchor a larger ensemble sound. The cue notes keep horn players engaged even when the full complement of parts isn't available.

These arrangements capture the energy and swagger of the originals. You get the satisfaction of recognizing familiar melodies while discovering how López voices the harmonies underneath. Whether you're playing a driving rock riff or a jazz standard, the writing sits comfortably on the horn and lets you sound competent and musical from the first read-through.

Horn players in grades 5-9 (or equivalent private studio students) who are ready for Grade 2.5-3 reading and want to explore popular music in an ensemble setting. This book works equally well for a section of four horns or as part of a mixed brass and woodwind group.

• Balance the melody line (A) with harmonic support (B) by checking that your part moves with musical purpose, not as filler. López's cue notes guide you through the structure.
• Pay attention to stylistic cues in the rhythm section accompaniment (available on CD). The groove in 'Danger Zone' or the swing feel in 'Take the "A" Train' will inform how you shape your phrasing and articulation.
• Use octave doublings creatively when multiple horn players are available. The two-line format invites you to thicken the harmony without needing to rearrange anything.

Program a medley of two or three titles as an informal concert piece or pops concert closer. The flexibility means you can feature a full mixed ensemble one week and a smaller chamber group the next, keeping the same music fresh. These songs also work well as motivation during the school year, breaking up the standard concert repertoire with contemporary material that engages student musicians and audiences alike.

• Reading two-part harmonic textures and understanding voice leading in pop/rock idiom
• Coordinating melodic and harmonic roles within a section
• Playing with stylistic accuracy (rock, jazz, contemporary pop phrasing)
• Adapting to flexible instrumentation and following cue notes
• Listening to and interpreting rhythm section grooves from recorded accompaniment