Gear Up for Middle School Jazz Band 2024 Tuesday, December 10, 2024
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Blue Skies arr. Victor Lopez, Grade 1
A classic jazz standard arranged for the young jazz group as a medium-tempo cha-cha. The instrumentation is 4/2/2/3, but playable with reduced instrumentation of three saxes, one trumpet, one trombone, piano, bass, and drumset. Optional parts are included for two flutes, two clarinets, bari sax, F horn, baritone horn, tuba, and vibes!
Out of Somewhere by Peter Blair, Grade 1
The distinctive changes on this Johnny Green classic lend themselves especially well to a big band treatment. Lots of dynamic contrasts and full swinging ensemble passages make this chart a great choice for any concert.
Prime Time Blues by Doug Beach, Grade 1
Here is the perfect combination of an infectious melody, great scoring, and many of the swing figures that are essential for young players to learn. The approachable blues changes in F concert make this a great chart to encourage young players to improvise. With flexible Jazz Foundations scoring, this chart is accessible to groups with any instrumentation.
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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!