An Elusive Man: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Goodwin's writing balances accessibility with genuine sophistication. At Grade 5, this chart demands musicianship without sacrificing the joy of playing swinging jazz, and the scoring for a smaller ensemble makes it realistic for most jazz programs to program alongside larger works.

A medium-tempo swing with sophisticated harmonic movement and the kind of propulsive groove that makes players want to lock in. The writing sits comfortably in the pocket while offering soloists plenty of room to stretch and communicate with the ensemble.

Jazz ensembles with strong rhythm sections and soloists ready for Grade 5 demands. The smaller instrumentation makes it ideal for programs transitioning from student big bands or working with limited personnel.

• Lock the rhythm section (piano, bass, guitar, drums) into the groove at 136 BPM during rehearsal before layering the horns; a rock-solid foundation transforms how the soloists sit in the chart.
• Give soloists time to develop their voices during the solo sections. Goodwin has written space for each player to contribute meaningfully, so encourage trading and individual interpretation rather than playing it safe.
• Balance the tenor and trumpet lines carefully in the ensemble passages; both voices carry melodic weight, and clarity here drives the overall feel.
• Use the recorded reference (available separately) to lock in the swing feel and articulation style that brings Goodwin's charts to life.

Feature this on a concert pairing it with a ballad and an uptempo closer; the medium tempo and extended solo space make it ideal for showcasing individual musicians while keeping the set energized. It also works well as a centerpiece in a concert dedicated to Goodwin's arranging or as a vehicle for introducing students to swinging small-group jazz.

• Swing articulation and phrasing in a blended ensemble setting
• Soloing over changes with structured harmonic movement
• Listening to and interacting with other soloists during trading sections
• Balancing melodic lines within a compact instrumentation
• Interpreting jazz articulation from a professional arranger's notation