“Slim Chickens”: Especially for Middle School Jazz Ensemble Monday, December 09, 2019
recommended by Ben H., Jazz Specialist
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.
Recorda Me (Remember Me) by Joe Henderson/arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 2.5
One of the best jazz standards arranged in a Latin groove played at 156 BPM. The melody is handled by tenor, trumpet, and guitar with written solos provided for tenor and trumpet. Lead trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff. Optional parts provided for vibraphone, flute, and clarinet.
Slim Chickens by Kris Berg, Grade 2.5
This chart is very accessible for young players with lead trumpet range to written G on top of the staff. It includes written-out suggested solos for tenor 1 and trombone 1 with background figures to support the soloists. It’s a toe-tapper played at around 148 BPM with some nice bari sax parts, a sax soli, and full-sounding ensemble sections.
Blue Groove by Ethan Freier, Grade 2
This blues with a funky groove will be a sure hit with everyone. Classic funk horn lines combine with a driving rhythmic feel to create an instant classic. All “First Place for Jazz” selections feature moderate ranges, notated rhythm section parts, and open solo sections.
U D’Bossa by Rod Blumenau, Grade 2
A beautifully crafted bossa nova that features very colorful harmonies and enouch syncopation to be interesting but still playable by all. A great way to introduce this classic style to players and audiences. All “First Place for Jazz” selections feature moderate ranges, notated rhythm section parts, and open solo sections.
Firewalker by Dean Sorenson, Grade 2
This chart begins with the horns alone and builds to a driving samba. Starts strong and never looks back! All “First Place for Jazz” selections feature moderate ranges, notated rhythm section parts, and open solo sections.
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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.