News & Views Thursday, March 27, 2025

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Hot to Go! arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2
The catchy and danceable hit from Chappell Roan is offered here in this fun and very accessible arrangement that your early developing jazz ensemble will never want to stop practicing. A grooving rhythm section, easy rhythms and ranges and even a rhythmically spoken section will make this a blast for both audience and musicians!

Die with a Smile arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Your lead tenor takes the spotlight in this powerful arrangement of the chart topping hit from Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. Wonderful ensemble scoring gives the band a full and strong sound with a great 6/8 feel while keeping it in a playable 3/4 meter. Both written and ad lib solo for tenor sax. Lead trumpet plays an A, lead bone plays F. This one will give you goosebumps!

Any Way You Want It arr. Rick Stitzel, Grade 1.5
Your young jazz musicians (and their parents) will not be able to get enough of this accessible arrangement of the iconic 80’s rock hit from Journey!

Bye Bye Blackbird 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.

Dancing in the Dark arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
All the grit, and rock and roll drive of the original Springsteen hit is captured in this masterful arrangement. A rare bari sax solo feature kicks off the melody. Great scoring. Lead trumpet plays E, lead trombone plays F.

Like a Prayer arr. Roger Holmes, Grade 3
Featured in the hit movie “Deadpool and Wolverine,” this chart topping 90’s gospel rock hit by Madonna, is available here for young jazz ensemble.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Reverse of the Curse by Craig Skeffington, Grade 4
A home run for audiences and players alike! Dedicated to the World Series victories by the Boston Red Sox, this straight ahead swinger starts hot and never lets up. “Reverse of the Curse” is a very clever minor blues that features interesting harmonies and pedal points. A driving rhythm out section that will challenge the horn players sets up a kicking shout chorus. All of this excitement is generated with trumpet parts that only briefly extend above the staff. A perfect chart for bands of all levels!

Reach Out by Matt Harris, Advanced
This funky rock tune includes conservative ranges, fully written-out rhythm section parts, and repetitive rhythms which makes it playable by advancing groups through professionals. The piano has a solo, and then is followed by the solo section that includes chord changes in all parts. Scoring calls for 5 trumpets, optional vibes, and SATTB saxophones, however an optional alto part is provided for the soprano part. A guitar chord charts is included in each set.

I’ve Paid My Dues by Mike Tomaro, Medium Advanced
Commissioned by Evanston Township High School, this burning medium advanced original will make a great program choice. An abundance of wonderful ensemble writing combines with a strong melodic line to create a solid foundation for the open solo sections. The driving shuffle groove will have the audience just as involved in the performance as the musicians.

One More by Tom Kubis, Grade 3
Shifting between shuffle and hip-hop feels and groovin’ hard from start to finish, this exciting closer for advancing groups is recorded on the Tom Kubis album “Live And Unleashed.” Dense ensemble passages, well articulated swing figures, sax and brass solis, an open ad lib solo section for alto saxophone, trumpet and/or trombone, and a really big finish are highlights. A guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson is included in each set.

Charleston Shuffle by Andy Farber, Grade 3
A bright shuffle tune by New York composer Andy Farber that features lots of appealing ensemble writing. Unique writing for trumpets in mutes and tasty scoring give this tasty arrangement lots of appeal. Solo section includes solos for bari sax and guitar but can easily be opened up for any soloists of your choosing. Top trumpet range is A above the staff and 1st trombone goes to G above the staff.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Pyramid Power by Doug Beach & George Shutack, Grade 1
This driving rock chart is sure to be a hit, not only with the band, but with the audience as well. The infectious groove, the building pyramids, and the catchy melody all combine to create a perfect chart for your next program. The Jazz Foundations scoring ensures that the chart will work with virtually any instrumentation.

Soul Chicken by Kris Berg, Grade 2.5
A very soulful alto sax 1 feature with a relaxed rock-flavored groove played around 86 BPM. Everything is written out for the alto including a suggested ad-lib solo section. Trumpet 1 range is to written G on top of the staff. An electric piano and bass will provide a nice texture. An outstanding chart for any performance.

Hey, Elephant! by Drew Zaremba, Grade 2
You may be familiar with Drew Zaremba from his YouTube channel which features his fantastic big band and a host of super solos. This chart is a rockin’ good time and will be a blast for your band and audience.

Megalovania arr. Rick Stitzel, Grade 1.5
Retro music from “old school” video games never goes out of style. This popular and quirky theme from “Undertale” will quickly become one of your students’ favorites. This easy version features modest ranges and easy-to-learn patterns.

Phat Tuesday by Peter Sciaino, Grade 4
In the composer’s own words, “I was going for a New Orleans vibe…like a Dirty Dozen Brass Band sort of thing but it went J.B. horns (James Brown) style at some point.” That beautifully sums up this great new funk chart – searing horn lines and a cooking rhythm section.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Comfort Zone by Paul Clark, Grade 2.5
Paul Clark’s “Comfort Zone” is a super-hip laid-back jazz ballad featuring a trumpet, alto, tenor and trombone quartet trading off with great ensemble sections. Numerous abrupt dynamic changes really get the listener’s attention. The open solo section is over basic blues changes with tasteful backgrounds, and you can’t get any more comfortable than that. This chart is the perfect vehicle to “lay back” from all the up-tempo tunes and just wail away on some free and easy jazz. Wonderful writing at this grade level. Highly recommended!

Reggaeton by Steve Shanley, Grade 2.5
The “reggaeton” genre is one of the most popular musical styles in the world, and now you can finally play it with your jazz band! Steve Shanley’s “Reggaeton” utilizes the infectious groove in a jazz chart for developing musicians. You’ll love the accessible rhythm section parts and easy solo section, and your young jazzers will love the feel and groove of this fun chart. A perfect closer for your next concert or festival! Highly recommended!

10 Miles from Home by Steve Briody, Grade 3
This modern-jazz, moderate-tempo ballad features a beautiful melody and chord changes, combined with the forward pulse from your drummer’s ride cymbal pattern and the rhythm section. It’s a wonderful opportunity to feature your alto or flugel player on the lyrical (written-out) solo section. The wide range of dynamics leading to the inspiring outro section provides an outstanding musical “journey” for your students!

Rampart Street Festival arr. Kris Berg, Grade 3.5
The catchy and funky groove of New Orleans second-line style is beloved not only by the locals, but listeners worldwide. Kris Berg’s “Rampart Street Revival” is an energetic, re-imagining of the classic hymn “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” cast in the second-line style. This chart features catchy ensemble, creative harmonies, solo space for alto and trumpet, and an infectious groove! Perfect for any setting, “Rampart Street Revival” will have your audience dancing in the aisles like it’s Mardi Gras. Ça ç’est bon!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Jen Sper and Lisa Springer, School Choral Music Specialists

Unleashing the Potential of the Musician’s Body (Timani: Anatomy and Exercises for Healthy Playing and Singing) by Tina Margareta Nilssen
“Unleashing the Potential of the Musician’s Body” offers clear and practical tools for music professionals, students, educators, movement specialists, and therapists working with musicians. You’ll learn about relevant anatomy – in particular, joints, muscles, and fascia – and get information on how the brain and movement are linked together. You’ll find dozens of illustrated performance-targeted exercises for all parts of the body, with specific instructions for different types of instruments as well as for singers. The exercises are designed to optimize movement and make playing or singing more effortless and expressive – and through this, access more musical potential. This book also touches on subjects such as warm-ups, pain, healthy living, and self-care tips.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Authors:
Jen Sper is a Choral Music Specialist here at Stanton’s Sheet Music. A native of Cincinnati, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College (now University) Conservatory of Music, and taught 7-12 choir, music theory, class piano, and drama in Southern Ohio before joining the Stanton’s team in 2006. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, Jen can also often be found exploring the exciting restaurant, brewery, and theater scenes in Columbus, wandering through the local metro parks, visiting family around the Great Lakes, or at home with her very friendly cat.

Lisa Springer joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2023. She taught middle and high school choirs for 27 years in addition to serving as Artistic Director of the Columbus Women’s Chorus. She holds degrees from Heidelberg University and Cleveland Institute of Music. She has enjoyed an extensive professional singing career and continues to perform in the greater Columbus area. During her free time, she enjoys spending time in southern Ohio playing with her grandchildren.

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

A Little Orpheus Swing by Michele Fernández, Grade 2
This swing chart features an abundance of great ensemble work with solos spots for several members of the band. A perfect choice for grade 2.

Meet Me at the Taqueria by Doug Beach & George Shutack, Grade 2
A driving Latin feel is the foundation of this chart. With a strong melody, solid voicings and an open solo section, this piece will be not only a great concert choice, but also a wonderful vehicle for teaching young players this important style.

Circus Song by George Shutack, Grade 3
With a floating 3/4 feel as a foundation, the strong melody couples perfectly with the solid ensemble writing to create an abundance of teaching opportunities. A perfect change up for any program or festival.

Bring It On by Doug Beach, Grade 4
“Bring It On” is a straight-ahead swinger that burns from the opening notes to the final chord. With a strong melody, a sizzling unison ensemble line and lots of full ensemble, this one will have the audience asking for more. And there’s plenty of room to feature your soloists as well. A must have chart for any library.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

When You Wish Upon a Star arr. Chuck Israels, Grade 3-4
Using a comfortable moderate swing style, this masterful setting opens with the full ensemble then giving way to solo space for tenor sax. A key change announces the entrance of the vocalist who takes us the rest of the way out. Tender and very effective! Key of C.

Autumn Leaves arr. Mark Taylor, Grade 3-4
This standard tune from 1945 has consistently remained a favorite with jazz musicians. Featuring a timeless melody, beautifully scored background parts, and a medium swing style, this standout chart for vocal soloist belongs in every library. Key C minor.

You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To arr. Scott Ragsdale, Grade 3.5
A superb vocal chart with big band on a great jazz standard. The cut-time tempo is around 92 BPM. The vocal range is from G below middle C to third space C, plus there’s some unison scat with the saxes, too. Lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff. An exciting and very effective chart for your featured vocalist. Key of E minor.

Crazy Little Thing Called Love arr. Roger Holmes, Grade 3-4
Recorded by Queen in 1979, this iconic hit adapts beautifully for vocal soloist with jazz ensemble with its rollicking shuffle style and infectious simplicity and charm. Definitely a “feel good” tune!

The Girl from Ipanema arr. Roger Holmes, Grade 3.5
Made famous by Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz, this laid back Latin favorite features a great groove and tasty ensemble writing to back your singer, either male or female.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

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!

Someone to Watch Over Me arr. Ellen Rowe, Grade 3
You can’t go wrong with George Gershwin, and this chart does a spectacular job of taking the genius melody of this classic tune and crafting a subtle and sophisticated chart. The arrangement moves from a straight eighth note feel to a jazz waltz before melting into a lovely Bossa. Everything about this chart just feels perfect.

Full House arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 3.5
Tenor sax and trombone state the melody in this swinging jazz waltz before the arrangement moves into two solo sections for winds and a drum feature. An interlude builds into the reprise of the melody. An outstanding chart!

You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To arr. Scott Ragsdale, Grade 3.5
A superb vocal chart with big band on a great jazz standard. The cut-time tempo is around 92 BPM. The vocal range is from G below middle C to third space C, plus there’s some unison scat with the saxes, too. Lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff. An exciting and very effective chart for your featured vocalist.

Autumn Leaves arr. Mark Taylor, Grade 3-4
This standard tune from 1945 has consistently remained a favorite with jazz musicians. Featuring a timeless melody, beautifully scored background parts, and a medium swing style, this standout chart for vocal soloist belongs in every library.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

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.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Carnival by David Samuel, Grade 3
Let the festivities begin! This bright Latin chart is the perfect change of pace chart for contest/festival or for your home stage. Intriguing harmony and rhythmic vitality make this chart shine!

Groove Chico by Christopher Artau, Grade 3
This funk tune just keeps coming at you! After the intense introduction the saxes jump in with the “A” section of the chart followed closely by big and punchy brass.

Back Porch Swing by Drew Zaremba, Grade 5
“Back Porch Swing” is a masterful tribute to Count Basie and Sammy Nestico. It swings like crazy!

Rejoice! arr. Anthony Susi, Grade 1.5
As a follow-up to his popular arrangement of “Coventry Carol,” arranger Tony Susi has taken “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and crafted it into a spirited Latin-rock arrangement called “Rejoice!” Great minor harmony surrounds the classic carol melody.

Nuvola by Peter Sciaino, Grade 1
If you have an outstanding young Alto Saxophone or Trumpet soloist, this is the perfect vehicle to showcase their talents. The relaxed even-eighth note tempo of the piece makes it easier for the soloist to navigate. All the solo lines are written out and chord changes are also included if the performer is a budding improviser.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

I Got You (I Feel Good) arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 2
Here is the signature hit by the “Godfather of Soul” in a solidly scored version perfect for young players. With a funky groove that captures the style of the original this chart also features solo opportunities for any combination of alto sax, trumpet, and trombone.

September arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
Still one of the funkiest tunes ever written, here is Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September” in a version for younger bands. Paul Murtha expertly captures the infectious groove of the original. You simply can’t go wrong with this one!

Dance the Night arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
One of the most popular hits to come from the movie blockbuster “Barbie” is this driving dance tune recorded by pop star Dua Lipa. This hot chart starts with a brief tenor sax solo before giving way to the entire ensemble. No solos required.

Midnight Creeper arr. Terry White, Grade 1.5
A funky-rock groove on a great jazz tune played around 112 BPM. Suggested solos provided for trumpets 1 and alto 1 with trumpet 1 range to written top line F. An excellent blues chart that is fun to play and easy to assemble.

Thriller arr. Mike Story, Grade 1
Yes, the Michael Jackson rock hit arranged for your young jazz band. Played around 114 BPM with modest ranges, nice voicings, and a written-out easy to play bass solo (cued for trombone or bari sax). This is an easy to play yet fun crowd pleaser for sure.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To by Cole Porter/arr. Scott Ragsdale, Grade 3.5
A superb vocal chart with big band on a great jazz standard. The cut-time tempo is around 92 BPM. The vocal range is from G below middle C to third space C, plus there’s some unison scat with the saxes, too. Lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff. An exciting and very effective chart for your featured vocalist.

Full House by Wes Montgomery/arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 3.5
Tenor sax and trombone state the melody in this swinging jazz waltz before the arrangement moves into two solo sections for winds and a drum feature. An interlude builds into the reprise of the melody. An outstanding chart!

The Upsweep by Alan Baylock, Grade 3.5
This chart is a very hip funky rock with a driving groove. Played around 92 BPM. Solos are provided for trombone 1 and alto 1. Lead trumpet range is to written G on top of the staff. This chart will really work best with electric bass and piano. The band will dig it!

Midnight Creeper by Lou Donaldson/arr. Terry White, Grade 1.5
A funky-rock groove on a great jazz tune played around 112 BPM. Suggested solos provided for trumpets 1 and alto 1 with trumpet 1 range to written top line F. An excellent blues chart that is fun to play and easy to assemble.

Battle Hymn of the Republic arr. Mike Kamuf, Grade 2.5
Wow! This terrific chart is inspired by the iconic Clark Terry version featuring two trumpets with plungers. A swing chart played around 112 BPM with sample solos provided for tenor 1 and trumpet 2, a hot sax soli, a stop-time shout chorus with bari sax setting the groove. Check this fine chart out!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Too Cool for Yule arr. Larry Clark, Grade 1
Everything you need for your holiday concert is here in this creative medley of carols…all wrapped up with a bow! Titles include: “Jingle Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing.”

Rejoice! (Based on O Come, O Come, Emmanuel) arr. Anthony Susi, Grade 1.5
As a follow-up to his popular arrangement of “Coventry Carol,” arranger Tony Susi has taken “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and crafted it into a spirited Latin-rock arrangement called “Rejoice!” Great minor harmony surrounds the classic carol melody.

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town arr. Paul Murtha, Grade 3
The Jackson 5 put an entirely different spin on this Christmas classic with their popular hit recording from 1970. This chart for young bands features the energetic pop groove, plenty of scoring variety, and an optional vocal part just for fun.

Go, Swing It on the Mountain arr. Peter Blair, Grade 1.5
Opening with an eight measure brass chorale, the chart settles into a laid back swing groove that shows off all the sections of the band. Clever harmony surrounds the familiar melody that gives it a fresh sound. The brass chorale returns later in the chart and it sets up the imaginative modulation that takes the chart out.

Good King Wences-Swings! arr. Larry Neeck, Grade 3
Here’s an inventive and swinging take on a classic holiday carol! “Good King Wences-Swings!” opens with a bright, full-ensemble introduction, leading into a sparkling interplay of melody between solo piano and the full band. The varied use of instrumental colors and keys keeps the piece lively and interesting. The open solo section (suggested solos are included) with its full ensemble backgrounds will support and encourage your soloists. Swinging riffs, powerful ensemble scoring, and supportive backgrounds will have your band sounding at its finest by the final shout chorus, and your audience will be on their feet! Terrific!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

15 Step arr. Matt Harris, Grade 5
Radiohead performed “15 Step” in 5/4 on the 2007 CD In Rainbows, and arranger Matt Harris has transformed the original meter into a series of infectious grooves in 11, 3, 5, and 7. The piano, tenor, and trumpet solo sections are accessible repetitive vamps, and the multi-meter ensemble exchanges with drums create electrifying ensemble shouts.

Exit Music (For a Film) arr. Mathew Montgomery, Medium
Here is a ballad that your band will love to play. Originally performed by Radiohead for the end credits of “Romeo + Juliet,” this piece has been arranged as a duet to feature trumpet and alto sax. It captures the essence of the original with its subtle yet lyrical beginning and slow build to an intense climax. A great choice for the ballad portion of your concert or contest set.

High and Dry arr. Bob Washut, Grade 5
Released in 1995 on Radiohead’s second album The Bends, “High and Dry” remains one of the band’s most popular hits. Bob Washut’s artful and passionate big band arrangement incorporates a mesmerizing 7/8 groove, a multiplicity of textures, and a broad dramatic spectrum that will inspire the folks who hear it as much as the musicians who play it.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

1-800-Got-Funk by Vince Gassi, Grade 3
There will be no question that your band has a funk side once they dig into this tune. Filled with rhythmic vitality, the groove on this one is in the pocket and the dancing horn lines sparkle. This one will be a blast for your rhythm section!

Mind Over Matters by Kris Berg, Grade 2
This is a unique up-tempo swinger that has been made accessible to younger groups.

Tofu Cheesecake by Jamie Roth, Grade 4
From the brassy intro to the final flashy ending, this one is funk through and through. The main tune is presented in crunchy two part horn writing with Alto Saxophone and Trumpet leading the way.

Return of the Storm by Jeff Jarvis, Grade 5
Written as a sequel to his memorable chart “Category 4,” Jeff has left no stone unturned with his latest composition “Return of the Storm.” “Driving 12/8 groove” is an understatement for this daring excursion into Afro-Cuban funk. Perfect for festival programming this bold piece will wow the adjudicators and set your band apart.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Avalon arr. Dallas C. Burke, Medium Easy
This uptempo take on the jazz classic sits right in the pocket and swings hard while remaining playable.

Basin Street Blues arr. Dallas C. Burke, Medium Easy
This sultry, bluesy take on the iconic Dixieland standard offers a nice change of pace that’s perfect for a production number.

Mack the Knife arr. Allen Gray, Medium Easy
This version of the jazz standard gives everyone in the band a shot at the melody and swings hard from the opening measure until the dynamic finish!

Malaguena arr. Dallas C. Burke, Medium Easy
Dallas Burke delivers a take on the ultimate Latin opener that is truly fire from start to finish! There’s no better way to start a show!

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!