Pop for Jazz Ensemble Friday, November 27, 2020
recommended by Ben H., Jazz Specialist
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2
With a nice mix of scoring from full ensemble tutti to short section features, here’s a great sounding chart for younger players on this Motown favorite. No solos are required.
Hooked on a Feeling arr. Rick Stitzel, Grade 1.5
Recorded by the rock band Blue Swede in the 1970s, this catchy hit enjoyed renewed popularity thanks to the blockbuster movie “Guardians of the Galaxy.” This easy jazz version features question and answer phrases between sections of the band and requires no solos.
I Want It That Way arr. John Berry, Grade 2
Recorded by the Backstreet Boys in 1999, this enduring hit was hailed by critics as the pop ballad of that year. With the melody skillfully passed from section to section, this arrangement goes together quickly and requires no solos.
Mr. Blue Sky arr. Roger Holmes, Grade 3
Originally released by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) in 1978, this rock hit has been thrust back in the limelight thanks to numerous movie usages, including the opening sequence of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.” Whether or not you’re a fan of the movie, this is still a great-sounding arrangement playable by young bands.
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da arr. John Berry, Grade 2
This quirky tune was recorded by the Beatles for their 1968 “White Album” and featured recently in the Beatle-themed movie “Yesterday.”
Senorita arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Recorded by contemporary artists Shawn Mendes with Camila Cabello, this popular hit has ruled the pop charts with its seductive Latin style and memorable melodies. Paul’s version for young players features brief written (or ad lib.) solo spots for alto sax and trombone and later feature spots for all 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.