Battle Royale

Awaken the competitive spirit in your band room with Battle Royale by Randall Standridge. This Grade .5 work, set in 4/4 time and C minor, uses primarily the first five notes taught to beginners while creating a bold and engaging musical experience.

Built around a playful rivalry between sections, the piece features trading lines, dynamic contrasts, and spirited call-and-response writing. At one point, winds even join in with vocalizations, adding a fun and memorable “shouting match” that students will love. Active percussion drives the momentum throughout. Both fun and educational, Battle Royale is an excellent choice for developing ensembles ready to play with focus, energy, and a touch of friendly competition.

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Program Notes

Given my career now, I think people sometimes forget that I was a teacher. I taught in Harrisburg, Arkansas for 12 years, working with all band classes from grades 5 through 12. I loved my middle school and high school ensembles, but the highlight of my day was always beginning band.

Every day was a chance to experience music through fresh eyes. Everything was new. Everything was exciting.

One of the things I loved most about those students was how competitive they could be, and I was more than happy to encourage that spirit.

“Oh, brass class, we can’t finish this line today. The woodwinds finished it two days ago.”

“Oh, woodwind class, is that as fast as you can play that? The brass can play it way faster.”

“Oh, percussion class, the brass class is so much louder.”

They were like putty in my hands.

Battle Royale is a beginning band work that brings that same energy into the rehearsal hall. The woodwinds and brass are pitted against each other in a musical showdown, trading lines, building intensity, and even getting into a full-on shouting match at one point. Meanwhile, the percussion section does what percussion does best, adding drive, excitement, and just a little bit of chaos to the mix.  The goal is to create a fun, friendly rivalry that pushes students to play with more energy, focus, and confidence.

And to the students, I do want to remind you of one important thing. The real competition is with yourself. If you are better today than you were yesterday, you have succeeded.

But I have to tell you…

I think the person sitting next to you might have done it just a little better.

Peace, Love, and Music - Randall