A Coconut Named Alex: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

The backstory alone makes this piece irresistible: a student's habit of playing Coconut Champagne at rehearsals becomes the kernel of a breezy, character-filled quintet. Marlatt mines genuine melodic gold from the Denis Di Blasio original and crafts something that feels both playful and musically satisfying. The optional drumset part gives you flexibility depending on instrumentation while keeping the Latin energy front and center.

Tropical, sun-drenched, and perpetually in a good mood. The piece bounces along with the easy confidence of a tune that's been played a thousand times, yet Marlatt's writing keeps it fresh and conversational between the five voices. It's the musical equivalent of a Saturday afternoon rehearsal where the energy lifts everyone's spirits.

Intermediate brass quintets ready to tackle ensemble balance and style-specific rhythmic accuracy. This works well for groups with some chamber music experience but doesn't demand soloistic virtuosity; every player gets a chance to shine without extreme technical demands.

• Lock the rhythmic feel with your rhythm section (horns and optional drums). The Latin groove only sings when everyone commits to the subdivision.
• Bring clear articulation to the melody line; the brightness of this piece lives in crisp attacks and the way phrases breathe.
• Balance the optional drumset carefully. When present, it should anchor the groove without overwhelming the quintet's voices.
• Lean into the upbeat character without rushing. Maintain steady time even when the arrangement gets busier.

Pair this with heavier or more serious brass music to create dynamic contrast on a concert. It's ideal for spring pops programs, community ensemble showcases, or any context where you want to close a set on an uplifting note without sacrificing musicianship.

• Maintaining steady Latin rhythmic feel across ensemble
• Balancing melody and harmonic voices within a quintet texture
• Blending articulation styles to match a groove-based piece
• Adapting intonation and phrasing in an ensemble setting with optional percussion