Authentic Sounds of the Big Band Era: 2nd E-flat Alto Saxophone Book

Swinging, energetic, and deeply rooted in the golden age of American jazz. From the bright stomp of "Stompin' at the Savoy" to the sultry sway of "Moonlight Serenade," these arrangements capture the full range of big band expression, offering your section moments of driving rhythm, lush harmony, and genuine jazz character.

Second alto saxophonists in developing and intermediate jazz ensembles who are ready to work with genuine big band charts. This book works equally well in a traditional jazz band setting or as supplementary repertoire alongside a full big band curriculum.

• Listen closely to the first alto throughout rehearsals and performances. The second alto voice often supports harmonic movement or fills space between melody statements, so locking in with your section leader is essential.
• Study the original big band recordings of these tunes. Hearing how the arrangements sit in a full ensemble context will clarify your rhythmic placement and help you understand when to push forward or lay back in the pocket.
• Balance blend with definition. You're part of the section, but these parts have their own character. Shape phrases to complement rather than disappear into the reeds around you.

Build a big band concert around these standards, programming them in a sequence that balances tempos and moods. Alternately, extract individual charts throughout the year as reading material and rehearsal staples, rotating fresh material into your ensemble's weekly rotation to sustain engagement.

• Reading and executing syncopated figures consistent with swing rhythm
• Voice leading within the saxophone section across multiple harmonic contexts
• Phrasing and articulation appropriate to jazz idioms (tonguing, slurring, accent placement)
• Ensemble listening and balance between individual voice and section blend
• Interpreting stylistic notation and marking (swing eighth notes, dynamic shadings, accents)