25 or 6 to 4: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

The opening riff is instantly recognizable and gets students excited from the first rehearsal. Mike Story's arrangement respects the original's infectious groove while keeping brass ranges manageable and adding just enough solo space to give section leaders moments to shine without overwhelming a developing ensemble.

Energetic and groove-centered, with the kind of sticky melodic hook that lodges in your brain before the first rehearsal ends. The chart captures the urgency and swagger of the original without demanding technical virtuosity, letting students focus on feel, articulation, and ensemble balance instead.

First-year jazz ensemble students and developing groups building their foundational vocabulary in contemporary styles. The easy Grade 1 level and relatable rock repertoire hook younger players while the hard-driving arrangement keeps it musically satisfying for the conductor and section leaders.

• Lock the rhythm section into the signature opening riff before adding horns; this motive is the anchor that holds the entire chart together and drives its forward momentum.
• Balance the lead voices in the trumpet 1 and trombone 1 solos so they sit naturally above the ensemble foundation without requiring dramatic dynamic shifts.
• Let the rock groove breathe; this chart works best when the band commits to the pocket rather than rushing the eighth-note subdivision.
• If you use the optional guitar part, ensure it locks tightly with the bass line to maintain the song's signature push and pull.

Open a jazz concert with this to grab the audience's attention immediately, or place it mid-program as a palate cleanser between more complex charts. It works equally well as a festival piece that showcases your ensemble's ability to swing contemporary material with style.

• Groove and subdivision feel in a rock context
• Lead articulation and solo phrasing in jazz idioms
• Reading and interpreting chord changes from charts
• Ensemble balance when supporting featured sections
• Stylistic authenticity in contemporary rock-jazz fusion