4. Is this the best musical form for this song?
How do you want the introduction to go? How do you want to end the song? What is the best musical form for this song? How many times do you repeat each section? Do you have a reprise ready in case the song “takes off”? What is the recording you are basing this arrangement on?
5. What is the main musical feel?
Is this a guitar- or keyboard-driven song? What is the drum groove? What rhythms do you want the bass player to play? What is the acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard grooves? When does the band pause?
6. What instruments do you want or need for this arrangement?
When do players sit out in this song? When does the full band come in? What synth, guitar or other instrumental sounds do you need? Is there a drum only section?
7. What are the key instrumental lead lines?
Are the lead lines played by keys, guitar or both? Are they notated to help you remember? Have you asked the players to learn their parts before your rehearsal?
To do music at an excellent level, the leader or musical director needs to think through all the details. Confidence and excellence comes with preparation.
Question: What can you add to this list? What is working in your rehearsals? What charts do you use?
