Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (arr. Michele Fernández): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
By Michele Fernández / As performed by Shakira
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK01487001
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Description
Originally recorded as the official theme for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this upbeat and infectious hit by Shakira remains as popular today as ever. Michele Fernández brings us a refreshing and vibrant take on this iconic theme with a driving Afro-Caribbean groove and energized ensemble lines. (opt. flute part included)
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK01487001
More about this title
About the Author: Michele Fernández
Michele Fernández is an arranger and composer whose work spans multiple genres, with particular strength in adapting contemporary music for jazz and concert settings. His arrangements prioritize rhythmic clarity and ensemble energy while maintaining the essential character of the original material.
Why we love this
Fernández captures the propulsive spirit of the original without relying on gimmicks or oversimplification. The Afro-Caribbean groove sits perfectly at Grade 3, giving students authentic rhythmic textures to lock into while keeping ensemble voicing accessible and rewarding.
What to expect
Infectious and buoyant, with a warm Afro-Caribbean pulse underneath modern harmonic colors. The piece radiates positive energy without sacrificing musical substance; students feel the celebration as they play.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the Grade 3 level seeking contemporary repertoire with genuine groove and broad appeal. Directors programming concerts aimed at general audiences will find this title generates immediate engagement while delivering solid musicianship work.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock the kick drum and bass line first. The groove's contagious energy depends entirely on their pocket; have rhythm section rehearse independently before full ensemble runs.
- Emphasize the horn section unison passages for clarity. These moments should cut through with precision, especially when layered against the rhythm section's busier material.
- Let the ensemble breathe at cadential moments. Resist the urge to maintain forward momentum everywhere; strategic space makes the energized sections land harder.
- Adjust optional flute part placement based on your instrumentation. If included, it adds brightness to the upper range but works equally well without it if flute resources are limited.
How to use it
Slot this into spring concerts or festival programs where you want to shift the mood and showcase your ensemble's rhythmic sophistication. It pairs naturally with other contemporary pop arrangements while also standing beautifully as a set opener or closer.
Skills your students will build
- Playing syncopated rhythms in Afro-Caribbean grooves
- Locking ensemble rhythm sections to a steady pocket
- Balancing unison horn passages with underlying harmonic motion
- Responding to contemporary arranging techniques applied to familiar material
- Sustaining energy and articulation in uptempo ensemble passages