Alianza: 2nd B-flat Trumpet
By Erik Morales
Grade: 3 (Medium)
Item: 00-PC-0017510_T2
$3.00
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Description
"Alianza" is the Spanish word for alliance which is represented through the blending of Latin and swing styles with high energy. The main melody seamlessly integrates the two styles. There is a written-out jazz solo for 2nd trumpet and every section of the band is featured at some point. Lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff and there is an optional percussion part. A very hot Latin chart that will please everyone. (3:29) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Alianza: 2nd B-flat Trumpet comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Jazz Band Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
102
SKU:
00-PC-0017510_T2
More about this title
About the Composer: Erik Morales
Erik Morales was born in New York City in 1966 and studied composition at Florida International University before completing his bachelor's degree at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette. His composing career took root in 1985 when his high school band director commissioned him to arrange music for the marching band, an opportunity that opened doors to educational music publishing. Since his works were first published worldwide in 2002, Morales has become a prolific voice across multiple genres, with over 150 publications spanning wind, orchestral, jazz, and chamber settings.
As a trumpeter himself, Morales has made significant contributions to trumpet literature and ensemble writing. His trumpet compositions have earned recognition at national competitions, and his Concerto for Trumpet in C and Piano was premiered at the 2009 International Trumpet Guild conference. In 2012, a consortium commissioned him to write a Concerto for Two Trumpets and Band, which premiered at the 2013 ITG conference. His work consistently balances artistic integrity with accessibility for student musicians, earning him induction into the Louisiana Association for Jazz Education's Hall of Fame in 2016.
Why we love this
Morales writes for the actual demands of a working jazz ensemble without sacrificing musicality. The interplay between Latin and swing feels organic rather than grafted on, and the fact that every section gets featured moments means your ensemble leaves the rehearsal feeling heard. That written-out trumpet solo gives students a concrete model for the style and energy the piece demands.
What to expect
Alianza pulses with infectious Latin rhythms that pivot smoothly into swinging horn lines, creating a sense of movement and celebration. The writing feels contemporary yet balanced, energetic but never rushed, with moments of ensemble unison that build confidence before backing off to let smaller voices shine.
Who it's for
Jazz ensemble directors seeking a piece that works for Grade 3 ensembles without sounding educational or watered down. The 3:29 length and full band instrumentation (including optional percussion) make it accessible for developing students while offering enough musical meat to keep experienced groups engaged.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock the Latin feel in the rhythm section first. The blend of swing and Latin grooves lives in the precision of the drums, bass, and piano; lock those parts and let the horns sit on top of that foundation.
- Work the lead trumpet's upper register separately during sectionals. The written A requires clear voicing and stamina, so give the lead players dedicated time on those passages before full ensemble rehearsals.
- Balance the 2nd trumpet solo with the rhythm section support. This is the soloist's moment, so ensure the comping underneath (especially piano and guitar) is listening and responding, not just playing through.
- Bring energy to the dynamic shifts. The high-energy character only lands if the ensemble understands when to press forward and when to lay back; mark your parts clearly and conduct the contrast.
How to use it
This works beautifully as a concert closer or as the anchor of a jazz-focused program. Its Latin flavoring pairs well alongside other contemporary jazz charts, or it can stand alone as a statement piece that leaves audiences smiling and wanting more. The energy level makes it ideal for spring concerts or competitive jazz festivals.
Skills your students will build
- Articulation and phrasing in Latin and swing idioms
- Ensemble blend within mixed rhythmic feels
- Reading and interpreting written jazz solos
- Upper register control and accuracy (lead trumpet)
- Listening and responding within small group voicings
- Rhythmic precision in syncopated passages