Re-Imagined Standards for Jazz Ensemble Friday, November 25, 2022
recommended by Eric Stratton, Jazz Specialist
My Foolish Heart arr. Alan Baylock, Grade 3.5
“My Foolish Heart” arranged by Alan Baylock is a superb ballad featuring trumpet 2 played around 70 BPM. A double-time section with a suggested written solo, lush rubato sections, and the lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff. You will love this arrangement!
Summertime by George Gershwin/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.
Lush Life by Billy Strayhorn/arr. Mike Tomaro, Grade 4
Here is Billy Strayhorn’s beloved ballad, skillfully arranged with subtle reharmonizations and reworkings of the melody, all the while remaining faithful to the original intent. Featured are solos for piano and trombone. A gorgeous setting for the entire ensemble.
Night and Day by Cole Porter/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.
Bye Bye Blackbird by Ray Henderson/arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 1.5
This popular song from the 1920s has been recorded by pop and jazz artists alike. Here’s an imaginative swing version scored with easy rhythms and modest ranges. With a familiar melody and great feel, this is sure to be a favorite.
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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.