Music: Philippians 4:6

Philippians 4:6
By Bobby McFerrin, arr. Dorothy Gates
American Band Journal 78th Edition
Edited by Dr. Dorothy Gates
The Salvation Army Eastern Territory USA
www.music.use-salvationarmy.org

Dorothy Gates brings us a charming arrangement of Bobby McFerrin’s famous Don’t Worry Be Happy. Having been renamed for this Salvation Army arrangement, the piece is rather suited to its new title of Philippians 4:6 - the Bible passage that starts ‘Do not be anxious about anything…’

The writing presented by Gates is simple, but effective and lets the music speak for itself, rather than introducing any unnecessary excess.

The well-known melodies are passed around the sections of the band, ensuring that interest is maintained for the entire ensemble, for the duration of the piece.

The score itself will be technically accessible to most bands, the main challenge being to embrace the swing quavers in a suitably laid-back fashion and effectively capture the Reggae style. The addition of the two optional percussion parts will go a long way towards providing the necessary ‘feel’ to the music.

Overall, Philippians 4:6 is a light, but enjoyable addition to the repertoire; a catchy tune is always a popular in any concert programme and this will have audiences tapping their feet for years to come. 

THOMAS DUNNE

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