Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts
Words and music by George Michael / arr. Nick Baratta
Grade: 3 (Medium)
Item: 00-PK-0007895
$58.00
One moment…
Description
This great rock shuffle is a tune that everyone will recognize! Nick Baratta has taken this classic hit from George Michael and crafted a hot new arrangement. (1:34)
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go: Marching Band Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
Open in the Player
Jump straight in and assign it today.
Start Your Free Trial
Open this title and explore the full library in minutes.
Sample Audio
1
Audio File
--:--
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
Additional Details
Series:
Mega Sounds for Marching Band
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
112
SKU:
00-PK-0007895
More about this title
About the Artist: George Michael
George Michael rose to prominence in the 1980s as the primary songwriter and vocalist for Wham!, a duo that defined the sound of the decade with infectious pop hooks and rhythmic sophistication. His solo career, which began in 1987, established him as a major force in pop music, blending soul, funk, and rock influences with deeply personal songwriting. Michael's ability to craft memorable melodies within complex harmonic structures made his work a natural fit for creative reinterpretation across genres and ensembles.
Why we love this
Nick Baratta's arrangement brings genuine energy and accessibility to a song your students actually want to play. The rock shuffle groove sits naturally for marching band forces while the recognizable melody keeps morale high during rehearsals and performances alike.
What to expect
Bright, bouncy, and instantly recognizable. The rock shuffle foundation gives it swagger and forward momentum, while the familiarity of the melody creates immediate engagement from both players and listeners. There's joy in the simplicity here, paired with the confidence that comes from knowing everyone in the crowd recognizes this tune.
Who it's for
Marching bands looking for contemporary literature that connects with performers and audiences. This Grade 3 arrangement works for programs seeking accessible pop repertoire that doesn't sacrifice musicality or contemporary feel.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock the shuffle rhythm in your rhythm section first. The pocket of this groove is everything; once drums, bass, and pit establish it clearly, the rest of the band will lock in effortlessly.
- Balance the melody so it cuts through the harmonic foundation without overwhelming it. This arrangement thrives on transparency, not thickness.
- Keep the energy consistent across the form. A tune this recognizable can feel stale if phrasing becomes predictable; vary the dynamics and articulation choices subtly from phrase to phrase.
- Let the rock character breathe. Avoid over-cleaning articulations; a slight groove in the attack reinforces the shuffle feel and keeps it from sounding too precise.
How to use it
Program this as a crowd-pleasing selection in a pops concert or field show that balances traditional and contemporary literature. The 1:34 duration makes it an ideal opener or closer when you need something short, energetic, and audience-friendly without requiring an entire set of modern arrangements.
Skills your students will build
- Playing rock shuffle rhythms with consistent groove
- Balancing melody and harmony in contemporary arrangements
- Managing articulation and attack in a pop-funk context
- Reading and executing dynamic variation within a fixed groove