Alianza: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Morales writes with real understanding of what jazz ensemble players need. The blend of Latin and swing feels natural rather than forced; the main melody does the heavy lifting, carrying both idioms without shifting gears abruptly. Including a written-out solo for 2nd trumpet instead of leaving it blank gives mid-level players a model for phrasing and articulation, and rotating section features keeps energy flowing and ensures no one is sitting idle through long stretches.

High-energy and driving from the opening, with the kind of infectious forward momentum that makes audiences lean in. The Latin rhythms give it heat and flavor, while the swing elements keep it light and grooving. Despite the energy, the main melody sits front and center, warm and memorable rather than buried under complexity.

Jazz ensemble directors at the high school level or advanced middle school programs who want a piece that energizes players without requiring extensive solos or complex harmonic navigation. The Grade 3 difficulty keeps it accessible while the stylistic blend and strong compositional voice reward careful rehearsal and musicianship.

• Establish the Latin-swing hybrid early in rehearsal by isolating the rhythm section. Lock the clave pattern with the bass and trap drums before layering in the melody, so the ensemble feels where the two styles meet rather than fighting against it.
• Treat the 2nd trumpet solo as a teaching moment. Have that player study Morales's articulation and phrasing choices, then discuss how those choices shape the solo's character and energy.
• Balance the lead trumpet's reach to high A by ensuring the section doesn't overblow during tutti moments. Power comes from precision and ensemble lock, not volume.
• Lean into the optional percussion part if you have players available. The added color will enhance the Latin flavor and give the chart the full energy it deserves.

This works beautifully as a concert closer or a program anchor that can stand on its own. Its three-and-a-half-minute length and immediate appeal make it ideal for pops concerts, jazz festival showcases, or as a statement piece at adjudication when you want to show both ensemble chops and stylistic sophistication. Program it after a more straight-ahead swing tune to demonstrate your band's range.

• Blending Latin clave and swing rhythms in ensemble playing
• Reading and performing written-out jazz solos with authentic phrasing
• Balancing lead trumpet at high register within ensemble texture
• Hearing and executing section features that demand clarity and presence
• Listening across rhythm section parts to track harmonic and rhythmic alignment