Jazz Ensemble Standards Wednesday, January 20, 2021
recommended by Ben H., Jazz Specialist
Autumn Leaves arr. Peter Blair, Grade 3
Here is a medium swing version of this marvelous often-played standard. Peter Blair’s chart opens with a duet of alto and trumpet with ensemble punches. The saxes are featured on a chorus and there is a written or ad lib solo for piano. Great sounding chart!
Milestones by Miles Davis/arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2
This is one of the true jazz classics from composer/innovator/performer Miles Davis. Paul Murtha takes the essence of this great tune and makes it playable by beginning groups. The easy chords and modal style make it a natural for learning to improvise. Enjoy great flexibility with the Discovery Jazz series! Playable with 3 saxes, 2 trumpets, 1 trombone, piano and drums.
Caravan arr. John Wasson, Grade 5
This “barn burner” by outstanding arranger John Wasson was recorded by the very hot Jim Widner Big Band for his commercially available CD “Body and Soul” on the Chase Music Group label. Pure Latin fire from start to finish, this difficult chart will have your students begging to practice. With the opportunity for an extended alto sax solo, this Rolls Royce of an arrangement is definitely top-notch!
One O’clock Jump arr. Mark Taylor, Grade 3
This cornerstone of the swingin’ Count Basie era helped define a style and lend identity to one of the greatest big bands of all time. Mark’s chart for young players allows you to attain that important Basie sound without the extreme technical demands. Including written or ad lib solos for piano, tenor, trombone, alto, trumpet and even bass, this is a marvelous study in background riffs followed by full ensemble power. A treat for any band!
Indiana (Back Home Again in Indiana) arr. John Berry, Grade 3
Arranged here in a Basie swing style, this solid chart will make young bands sound great. Including some sophisticated harmonies and creative ensemble lines, this upbeat arrangement is sure to become a favorite.
Take the A Train arr. Alan Baylock, Grade 4.5
Think of “Take the ‘A’ Train” with a contemporary flair and you have the idea behind this inventive chart by Alan Baylock. Opening up in a swing groove, then alternating with a funk feel, bari sax, bass ‘bone, guitar and bass have the initial melodic statement in this terrific chart. Solo space is available for alto sax 1, trombone 1, bari sax and trumpet 2, and the lead trumpet range is to written D, above the staff. A modern yet superb chart of a tune everyone knows. Festival material!
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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.