Act Your Age: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Goodwin's original "Act Your Age" was already a big band favorite, and this Peter Blair arrangement brings that same slick, funky energy within reach of high school ensembles. The chart respects younger players by keeping technical demands modest while preserving the swagger and groove that make the tune memorable. Your students will feel like they're playing something genuinely cool, not a watered-down substitute.

Slick and funky, with enough modern attitude to grab an audience's attention immediately. The groove is infectious and dancing, built on a foundation of sharp rhythmic writing and horn punches that feel effortless once the ensemble locks in together.

Jazz ensembles at the Grade 2 level who want to perform genuine, contemporary big band material without the technical hurdles of advanced charts. This works equally well for ensemble members encountering written jazz solos for the first time or for groups looking to add a straightforward crowd-pleaser to their winter or spring concert.

• Lock the rhythm section into a tight pocket from rehearsal one. The funk groove lives in the precision of the bass, drums, and piano comping, so anchor your sound there before layering in horn lines.
• Feature your best alto saxophonist on the written solo. This moment defines the tune's character, and the cue for 2nd alto ensures the section can cover the part if needed.
• Treat the trumpet solos as a spotlight moment. All four trumpet parts carry the cue, but the lead voice tells the story. Work that line for phrasing and attitude, not just accuracy.
• Keep the tempo infectious but settled. The chart will come together quickly if the tempo feels relaxed and grooving rather than rushed.

Program this early in a jazz concert to establish energy and momentum, or slot it into a mixed repertoire concert where a contemporary jazz piece will stand out against traditional or classical selections. At 3:40, it fits comfortably into any concert structure and reads as a confident, polished choice from a working composer with real credentials.

• Playing jazz swing rhythms and funk grooves with precision
• Executing syncopated big band voicings and horn section balance
• Performing written and cued jazz solos with confidence and phrasing
• Interpreting dynamics and articulation marks in a jazz style context
• Reading and responding to lead trumpet lines that extend above the staff