WHEN YOU’RE SMILING: Top New Jazz Charts for Beginning Ensembles Tuesday, September 30, 2025
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
When You’re Smiling arr. Mike Dana, Grade 2.5
Classic Basie-style medium swing fits this excellent chart. The suggested tempo is 118 BPM, and the lead trumpet range is to written G. Solos are provided for alto 1 and trumpet 1, and the usual optional parts, including flute, clarinet, and vibes. A tasty, well-written arrangement.
Big Little City by Dean Sorenson, Grade 2
Composed during a visit to Reno, Nevada – THE BIGGEST LITTLE CITY IN THE WORLD – “Big Little City” is an easy minor blues skillfully scored to make your band sound its best. Ideal for teaching classic swing style to young players, Sorenson’s focus on moody unison lines and contrapuntal textures give this chart a mature, sophisticated sound. Two solo sections offer students plenty of opportunities to stretch their minor blues chops or perform the written suggested solo. As with all First Place for Jazz charts, flexible instrumentation allows maximum student participation.
I Can’t Believe That You’re In Love With Me arr. Peter Blair, Grade 2
Recorded by the fantastic New York Voices on their album “Sing, Sing, Sing,” this Jazz classic found new life. It swings from top to bottom with lots of creative exchanges between sections. This one is straight-ahead fun!
Intermodal by Kris Berg, Grade 1.5
The components of this new chart from Kris Berg are usually only found in music at more advanced levels, but Kris has made these cool features reachable by younger bands. The intriguing solo section has opportunities to showcase a number of players on short segments interspersed with ensemble figures.
Luck of the Draw by Doug Beach, Grade 2
From the opening notes to the final chord “Luck of the Draw” bristles with energy and excitement. The hard charging swing groove provides the perfect setting for the rhythmic melodic line. With plenty of ensemble work and an open solo section, this is the perfect opener on your next program.
Quasi-Modal by Paul Baker, Grade 2
A great introduction to Modal Jazz in F Natural Minor that swings hard at 164bpm. Saxes and trombones carry a unison melody that expands into unison counterpoint. Written solos are provided for Alto, tenor, trumpet, trombone, and guitar. Additional solos may be added as desired. A major feature of this chart is an optional 16 bar drum solo which is accompanied by bell-tone chords in the ensemble, referencing the bells of Notre Dame Cathedral. A short sax soli follows leading into the final shout and ending. Trumpet to written G. Trombone to F. Piano and bass parts are written out.
Softly, As In a Morning Sunrise arr. Rick Stitzel, Grade 2
A hip and accessible medium swing chart that is based around a ii-V-I progression in C minor. Lots of great unison rhythmic and melodic writing makes ensemble playing comfortable for young players and gives the melody to all parts. Written solos for saxes and flute. Optional flute, clarinet, F horn, tuba, and vibraphone parts included.
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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!