The clever title says it all: this is a great introduction to B flat “rhythm” changes. Swinging throughout at a tempo of 132 every section of the band gets a chance to shine. There are three written solos…Alto Sax 1 on the first “A” section, Trumpet 1 or 2 on…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Peter Sciaino
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing
This is a great chart that combines a Chuck Mangione style for the first section with a Sonny Rollins island feel at the “B” section. This would be an excellent choice as a contrast tune for a concert or festival. Following the breezy solo section there is a…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Steve Parsons
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing
A bit of a throwback, this swing chart highlights all the great aspects of the bands from the ’40s and ’50s while still sounding fresh. The wailing Sax lines and punchy brass along with a solid swing groove are sure to make this a crowd pleaser.
Grade Level:…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Peter Blair
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing
Instantly recognizable, this tradition spiritual receives the full Carl Strommen treatment and showcases the entire band. The familiar, bluesy melody is carefully crafted to be perfect for younger jazz groups.
Grade Level: 1 Copyright: 2023 Publisher:…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Carl Strommen
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing
The Neal Hefti composition for the Basie band called Cute set the standard for soft and sophisticated ensemble work in the winds with the drummer playing soloistic fills using brushes. This arrangement of Joy to the World uses that style in a clever way to…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Peter Blair
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing
Clocking in at a medium swing tempo of 148, this chart is a great teaching piece as well as being a good concert selection. It features solid ensemble scoring and creative harmony throughout. There is an extended solo section for Trumpet 2 that is…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Ed Gaston
Publisher: Wingert-Jones Publications
Alternating between an easy “two” feel and a shuffle “four” this solid chart just sounds great. Composer Carl Strommen has a knack for making very playable charts sound full and appealing and there is a lot to like in this new selection.
Grade Level: 1.5…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Carl Strommen
Publisher: Kendor Music Publishing
If you liked Jamie Roth’s blues chart It Is What It Ain’t you will definitely want to check out this latest composition. Brimming with energy this piece will showcase the band’s ability to create dynamic contrasts and play punchy rhythms. It also swings like…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Jamie Roth
Publisher: Kendor Music Publishing
In anthropology, liminality is a feeling of confusion or ambiguity that occurs during a transitional time in one's life, or a rite of passage. Written to commemorate the retirement of an admired music educator, this namesake piece embodies that emotional…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Joey Stempien
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
In addition to the demonstration recording of this tune, be sure to check out the exuberant video by the composer, Bill Cantos, with his own band. He calls the music he wrote for this album “new standards for the new Millennium” and this funky cha-cha…
Style: Jazz Ensemble
Composer: Bill Cantos, Michele Weir, Peter Blair
Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing