2022 Jazz Titles from FJH Thursday, September 01, 2022
recommended by Eric Stratton, Jazz Specialist
Abacus by Ryan Fraley, Grade 2.5-3
A cheerful Latin waltz with a pseudo-6/8 syncopation throughout, Abacus was written for the 2022 Indiana Junior All-State Jazz Ensemble. Optional vibes and auxiliary percussion round out a fully-orchestrated rhythm section while supporting solos on any instrument. Younger players will benefit from the provided transcriptions for alto and trumpet that match the recording note-for-note. An 8-bar drum solo over a vamp brings the band back in.
Spherical by Michael Brecker/arr. Jamie Roth, Grade 5
What an absolute treat! Play Michael Brecker’s quintessential fusion tune “Spherical,” expertly arranged especially for Randy Brecker’s big band. Every nuance of the original track is captured with precise detail and clear notation. This chart pays fond tribute to an American master with passion and a smart, hard edge. All sax parts include optional flute doubles.
One for the ‘Box by Monika Herzig, Grade 3.5
Not just any box, but the venerable Chatterbox jazz club! Monika originally recorded this hard-driving shuffle with her Acoustic Project. Now, the angular bebop lines are traded between trumpets and saxes. Solos for trombone, tenor sax, and guitar are provided in note-for-note transcriptions. However, there is room for any soloist before a sax soli further develops the melodic theme. Punchy and confident, this chart does not let up!
Wexford Carol arr. Ryan Fraley, Grade 2.5
The traditional Irish carol fits nicely over a Partido Alto Latin feel. The 2-measure ostinato dances under a legato melody played by 5 saxes and a flugelhorn. Solo transcriptions for flugel and alto sax are drawn from the demo recording. Carefully-notated rhythm section parts spool down to a winsome last chord for piano and guitar. This is not just a charming and playable holiday chart. It’s also a great entry point to an important South American style!
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About the Author:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.