Band Arrangements Your Students Will Love
Running a band club is hugely rewarding, but planning each session can be time-consuming. Finding songs that suit different abilities, whilst keeping everyone engaged, is no small task.
That’s why shared repertoire is built into the Rockschool curriculum.
Each arrangement is designed for group lessons, with both Band Charts and fully notated parts available. That means you can teach in the way that works best for you and your students.
We’ve cherry-picked six tracks across a range of levels to add to your lesson plans. You’ll also find an exclusive free trial for Backstage, where more than 40 Band Charts are ready to explore!
“The Chicken”
Jaco Pastorius / Advanced
If you’re students are looking for a fun, intricate track to play, then The Chicken has to be the first choice. Its infectious funk groove gives every musician an important role, making it perfect for developing listening skills and tight ensemble playing. Encourage your students to lock into the groove together.
“For Once In My Life”
Stevie Wonder / Intermediate
This Motown favourite is packed with memorable melodies and a groove that encourages every section of the band to work together. It’s a great opportunity to develop dynamics and timing between the rhythm and melody instruments.
“Go Your Own Way”
Fleetwood Mac / Beginner
A rock classic that’s instantly recognisable, Go Your Own Way introduces students to the importance of keeping a steady pulse within an ensemble. There are accessible parts across the band, so it’s a brilliant confidence-builder for musicians experiencing group performance for the first time.
“Parallel Universe”
Red Hot Chili Peppers / Advanced
Fast-paced and energetic, this track challenges players to maintain precision while navigating driving rhythms and layered instrumental parts. Focus on keeping the rhythm section locked together and encourage students to listen across the ensemble rather than concentrating solely on their own part.
“Weak”
Skunk Anansie / Intermediate
A powerful alternative rock anthem, Weak demonstrates how every instrument contributes to building tension and dynamics throughout a song. It’s an excellent piece for exploring balance and helping students understand when to lead and when to support.
“Where Is My Mind?”
Pixies / Beginner
Simple and instantly recognisable, this classic shows that great ensemble playing isn’t about complexity. Encourage students to concentrate on note lengths and listening carefully to one another to create the song’s distinctive atmosphere.
Ready for more?
These tracks are just a taste of the shared repertoire available through Rockschool. With 40+ Band Charts and Shared Repertoire pieces in Backstage, you’ll have plenty of material to keep your students engaged.
Start your free Backstage trial today and explore ready-to-use repertoire for band clubs, workshops and group lessons.