MARCHING BAND 2025: Jazz & Pop Friday, August 08, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Ain’t Misbehavin’ arr. Dallas C. Burke, Grade 3
This early jazz standard from the great Fats Waller makes a great vehicle for marching bands. With just the right mixture of laid back swing and driving hits from the band, this arrangement makes an exciting production number your students will love!
Can’t We Be Friends arr. Dallas C. Burke, Grade 3
This swingin’ jazz standard was a big hit for Frank Sinatra and Linda Ronstadt. This driving and dynamic arrangement swings hard from start to finish and makes a great production number in any jazz field show.
It Had to Be You arr. Dave Henning, Grade 3
This epic treatment of the early swing standard has it all. From the cinematic intro this chart moves into a laid back swing before blowing down the house and swinging hard to finish out the tune!
Puttin’ on the Ritz arr. Allen Gray, Grade 3
One of the all time great jazz standards, this chart makes a dynamic statement for marching band. With its infectious drum and low brass groove at the top to it’s down and dirty finish, this chart is a hit! Make some big noise with this swinger!
When You’re Smiling arr. Dave Henning, Grade 3
This swing tune has been covered by all the greats including Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong (just to name a few). With its laid back swing that builds into an epic blow, this tune makes a memorable closer for any show!
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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!