A Song for Horace: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Mossman captures the essence of Horace Silver's harmonic sophistication and groove sensibility in a chart that feels both tribute and original statement. The cha-cha foundation grounds younger ensembles while the double time section and tenor sax solo keep seasoned players engaged.

Warm and propulsive. The cha-cha lilt keeps things easy to snap into, while the harmonic movement and melodic curves reward close listening. The tenor solo sits right in that sweet spot between comfort and challenge.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level looking for a chart with real substance and groove. This works for groups ready to move beyond basic blues changes and into more sophisticated harmonic territory.

• Lock the cha-cha rhythm section pocket first. The groove sits at the heart of this chart, and everything from the front line to soloists depends on that foundation being rock solid.
• Give the tenor soloist space to breathe during their feature. This is their moment to stretch, so encourage exploration within the harmonic structure rather than playing it safe.
• Balance the melodic lines across the ensemble during section writing. Mossman scores parts that weave together; make sure inner voices aren't buried beneath the lead.
• Shape the transition into double time with clear energy. The tempo shift should feel like a natural push upward, not a jolt.

Pair this with other Silver tributes or classic jazz standards in a concert celebrating jazz composers who shaped the language. It also makes an excellent closer for a set, as the groove and infectious melody leave an audience smiling.

• Playing relaxed, in-the-pocket cha-cha grooves
• Reading and executing jazz articulation and phrasing conventions
• Balancing ensemble voice independence with overall blend
• Executing double time feel changes
• Supporting and responding to a soloist within a harmonic framework