The Best Marching Band Arrangements

9 months ago 764

Band programs continue to roar back to life as the importance of music in everyone's lives is apparent now more than ever; particularly for our students. You can start to feel the excitement in the air as marching bands begin their preparation for the season ahead.

New for 2023 we feature a variety of exciting charts from our trusted team of skilled and experienced writers. Highlights include arrangements of John Williams' iconic "Raiders March" featured in the latest Indiana Jones movie. Recent pop hits include Lizzo's "2 Be Loved," and Timmy Trumpet's stadium sensation "Narco." Nostalgia never goes out of style with familiar favorites from Madonna, Kate Bush, Journey and others. No matter your taste in music, we're confident you'll find something exciting for your band.

Also, in case you missed it, legendary rock band Metallica recently announced the Metallica Marching Band Competition: a national challenge to marching bands (in the U.S.A.) of all levels to craft their most exciting, unique, and impressive performances of some of the band's most beloved songs.



Running Up That Hill

Kate Bush (arr. Paul Murtha)

Marching Band

Thanks to a dramatic scene from season 4 of the popular series Stranger Things, Kate Bush's hit from 1985 got a new lease of life! This emotion-charged arrangement is perfect for the field or stands.


Raiders March (from Indiana Jones)

John Williams (arr. Johnnie Vinson)

Marching Band

Here's the unforgettable adventure theme from the Indiana Jones movie franchise. Scored for young players this will sound great with minimal rehearsal time.


Tank!

Yoko Kanno (arr. Paul Murtha)

Marching Band

Written for the Japanese anime series Cowboy Bebop, this blazing theme has taken on a life of its own! Slightly quirky, but definitely bombastic, this chart is sure to create a buzz!


2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)

Lizzo (arr. Matt Conaway and Matt Finger)

Marching Band

Singer/rapper superstar Lizzo continues to shake up the charts! "2 Be Loved" features a retro groove and a rhythmic drive perfect for dance features or just rockin' the stands.


Madonna!

Madonna (arr. Matt Conaway)

Marching Band

The music of 80s pop diva Madonna never gets old! With a dramatic intro using "Like a Prayer," this exciting production number follows with dance grooves on "Into the Groove" and "Material Girl."


Animal

Neon Trees (arr. Matt Conaway)

Marching Band

Recorded by Neon Trees in 2010, this uptempo rocker remains a consistent favorite in pop culture. Scored with a variety of textures and dynamic contrasts, this chart provides plenty of drive and excitement.


Narco

Blasterjaxx & Timmy Trumpet (arr. Jay Bocook)

Marching Band

Created by Blasterjaxx & Timmy Trumpet, this song was initially popular as "walkout" music for baseball pitcher Edwin Diaz, and is now heard frequently in stadiums and arenas across the country. The soaring trumpet line and driving beat creates instant electricity.


Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Journey (arr. Paul Murtha)

Marching Band

Recorded by Journey in 1983, this rock hit remains as popular as ever in movies and pop culture. With the familiar anthem-like chorus and solid rock groove, this chart generates energy from start to finish!


Adventures of Indiana Jones

John Williams (arr. Paul Lavender)

Marching Band

Here's a fast-paced and powerful arrangement using the familiar themes from John Williams' Indiana Jones soundtrack. Includes "Raiders March" and "Marion's Theme."


My Prerogative

Bobby Brown (arr. Ishbah Cox)

Marching Band

Recorded by Bobby Brown in 1988, this hip hop classic has remained popular thanks to cover versions and pop culture. Ishbah Cox brings it to life for the marching field with the signature riff scored for low brass and the powerful chorus for full band.


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