recommended by Ben H., Jazz Specialist
Program your jazz concert from the best-sellers list:
Step Lightly by Joe Henderson/arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 2
An outstanding swing chart that is accessible in every way. The melody is stated by alto, tenor, and trumpet; the tempo is 120 BPM; and the lead trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff. This chart includes written-out suggested solos for tenor 1 and trumpet 2, a sweet shout chorus, and all the usual optional parts plus vibes and clarinet.
What a Wonderful World arr. Alan Baylock, Grade 3
Everyone knows this song! A 12/8 groove played at 72 BPM makes this chart feel lazy and relaxed. Lead trumpet range is to A above the staff. No solos, just sweet ensemble all the way.
Fat Cat by Doug Beach, Grade 1.5
This solid swing tune featuring an open solo section, modest brass ranges, and lots of full-ensemble scoring comes with a sheet of written solo lines for all instrument types for players with little or no improvisation experience. In his score notes, Doug cautions that horns should strive for a well-balanced sound in all ensemble sections, resisting the temptation to overblow. Rhythm section parts are notated with chords cued.
Megalovania by Toby Fox/arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Quirky and featuring a bit of a “retro” sound, this uptempo theme is immediately recognizable to anyone in the gaming world. Solidly scored with plenty of drive and excitement, this will definitely add a little fun to your next concert.
Dat Dere by Bobby Timmons/arr. Erik Morales, Grade 3
Taking advantage of a soulful tune with a catchy title and melody, Erik Morales captures composer Bobby Timmons’s medium swing groove. At 120 BPM, with a slightly mysterious intro, the saxes grab the melody and it builds from there. A written (or ad lib) alto solo is provided with a fat shout chorus. This is an outstanding chart in every respect.
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About the Author:
Ben Huntoon is the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music. He received bachelors and masters degrees in music from Capital University and The Ohio State University respectively. As a professional trumpeter, Ben is accomplished in a wide variety of genres and has performed throughout the Midwest on many stages over the past 30 years. He also teaches trumpet, coaches brass ensembles and has served on the jazz faculty at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio. Ben is recently retired after many years of great service here at Stanton’s – congratulations, Ben!
Categories: Jazz, Staff Picks
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