JAZZ for Middle School 2022 Thursday, October 13, 2022
recommended by Eric Stratton, Jazz Specialist
Summertime arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 1.5
This enduring Gershwin classic has long been a favorite with jazz artists. Paul’s marvelous setting for young players features a sultry Latin rock groove, tasty harmonies, easy rhythms, and no solos are required. Great feature number for the entire ensemble.
Good Times by Carl Strommen, Very Easy
Here’s an easy swing chart from respected composer and arranger Carl Strommen. In the Kendor Jazz Quest Series, this chart is based on the chord changes to the Gershwin hit “’S Wonderful.” Lots of tutti rhythmic figures and solid ensemble writing throughout will help this chart come together with a minimum of rehearsal time.
Night and Day arr. Victor López, Grade 1
Classic Cole Porter at a very accessible level. “Night and Day” arranged by Victor López doesn’t include any individual solos, but features easy ranges and a bossa-nova groove played around 120 BPM. Optional flutes, clarinets, vibes, and more. A great choice for your young musicians.
Freddie Freeloader arr. Rick Stitzel, Easy
Recorded on the landmark album “Kind of Blue,” this Miles Davis blues standard is a perfect improvising tool for beginning players, and a great introduction to a legendary jazz figure.
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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.