The right music can make your marching band show unforgettable. It’s what sets the tone, drives emotion, and connects your students to the story you’re trying to tell. As a former band director and current composer, I’ve learned that choosing music isn’t just about picking good tunes—it’s about building a complete experience for your performers and audience.
Here’s how to select music that fits your ensemble, excites your students, and makes your marching band show come alive.
Why Music Selection Matters
Music is the heartbeat of every marching band. It gives purpose to each movement, phrase, and formation. The right music energizes students and pulls your audience into the show’s emotional core.
A strong soundtrack:
- Reflects your program’s personality
- Supports your show theme and design
- Challenges your players without overwhelming them
- Builds emotional momentum from start to finish
When your students connect with the music, you’ll feel it in every rehearsal and hear it in every performance.
Start with a Clear Theme
Every great show starts with a strong idea.
Ask yourself:
- What story or feeling do I want this show to express?
- How should the audience experience it?
- What musical colors will best paint that picture?
Themes like “Time,” “Light and Shadow,” or “Metamorphosis” give you direction for both repertoire and visual design. The best themes are simple enough to understand but deep enough to explore across a full season.
If you need inspiration, check out Build Your Show — it’s full of adaptable show ideas that can help you find your starting point.
Explore Different Musical Styles
The most memorable marching band shows blend variety and balance. Mixing styles keeps the audience engaged and your students challenged.
Experiment with combinations like:
- Classical + cinematic for depth and power
- Jazz + funk for rhythmic excitement
- Pop + orchestral for instant energy and emotional payoff
- Rock + electronic for modern drive and atmosphere
A diverse musical palette gives you space to contrast moods—creating tension, release, and surprise throughout your program.
Play to Your Ensemble’s Strengths
Your students are your greatest resource.
If your brass section can project, lean into that strength with bold fanfares and layered harmonies. If you’ve got a standout woodwind section, feature them in lyrical moments. Strong percussion? Build your show around rhythmic intensity.
Selecting music that fits your students’ abilities helps everyone sound their best—and keeps rehearsals motivating rather than frustrating.
Collaborate with Arrangers and Staff
Music selection is rarely a solo act. Collaborating with your arranger, visual designer, and percussion team helps ensure that every aspect of the show aligns musically and visually.
When I write marching band shows, some of the most successful projects come from open conversations early in the process—sharing strengths, goals, and creative ideas before the first note hits the page.
A unified design approach turns a good show into a cohesive, emotionally charged experience.
Use Online Resources Wisely
There’s a massive library of marching band music online—but sorting through it takes time.
Start with trusted platforms that specialize in marching arrangements or composer catalogs. Explore online communities for reference videos and inspiration. Better yet, connect with composers directly to discuss custom options for your ensemble.
To simplify the search, explore the Marching Band Shows page on my site—it features ready-made and customizable shows that can be adapted for your students.
Understand Licensing and Copyright
It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential.
If your show uses copyrighted material, make sure you obtain the necessary licenses. This keeps your program compliant and ensures credit goes where it’s due. It’s also part of being a responsible educator and professional in our field.
Design for the Audience Experience
Music selection isn’t just about what your students play—it’s about how your audience feels.
Think about pacing. Where do you want tension? Where do you want release? Balance slow, emotional moments with bold, high-energy hits. Use silence and subtlety as powerfully as impact.
Your goal is to take the audience on a journey they’ll remember long after the final note fades.
Pulling It All Together
Selecting music for your high school marching band show is both an art and a strategy. Choose music that tells a story, plays to your ensemble’s strengths, and engages your students emotionally. When the score, visuals, and message align, the results are magical.
The right music doesn’t just make a great show—it builds pride, unity, and lasting memories for everyone involved.
FAQs About Selecting Music for Marching Band Shows
1. How do I pick the right theme for my marching band show?
Start with an emotion or concept that excites you. Then choose music that naturally supports it. If your students buy into the idea, you’re on the right path.
2. What’s the best way to balance difficulty and accessibility?
Aim for a 70/30 mix—most of the show should feel achievable early in the season, with 30% pushing your students to grow.
3. Should I use original music or licensed material?
Both can work! Original music offers flexibility, while licensed music brings instant recognition. Just be sure all permissions are secured.
4. How do I find music that fits my ensemble size and instrumentation?
Work directly with your arranger or choose shows that can be easily scaled. Many modern shows are designed with flexible scoring in mind.
5. When should I start the music selection process?
Ideally, in late fall or early winter, so you can plan design meetings and order scores before spring rehearsal season begins.
About the Author
Evan VanDoren is a professional composer, arranger, and former high school band director. He creates music and marching band shows that inspire students and help directors build programs rooted in artistry, excellence, and joy. Learn more at evanvandoren.com.
Recent Comments