Bernie's Tune: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

A medium-tempo swinger with teeth. The tenor and trumpet solos feel like a conversation, and when the shout chorus hits, the whole ensemble is locked in and moving forward together. It's the kind of tune that makes people want to move.

Jazz ensemble directors working at the Grade 3 level who want a swinging chart with genuine solo writing that challenges intermediate players without requiring improvisation. This works for ensembles comfortable with swing interpretation and looking to program something with strong rhythmic drive.

• Balance the written-out tenor and trumpet solos so both voices cut clearly; this isn't improvisation territory, so lock the articulation and phrasing between these two parts during sectional rehearsals.
• Prep the high B in the lead trumpet part well in advance and consider doubling it with another trumpet if the range sits uncomfortably for your lead player.
• Keep the rhythm section tight on swing feel; the shout chorus lands hardest when the time is absolutely locked underneath the horn punches.
• Shape the ensemble dynamics through the shout chorus so the final hits sit on top of the band rather than buried in it.

This sits perfectly in the middle of a jazz concert where you want to showcase both solo voices and ensemble cohesion. It works as a contrast to ballads or funkier tunes, and the shout chorus ending gives you a clean, energetic exit that audiences recognize and enjoy.

• Swing feel and interpretation
• Sectional blend and balance between featured soloists and ensemble
• Reading and executing written-out solo passages with jazz phrasing
• Ensemble tuning and precision on sustained chords in the shout chorus
• Punch articulation and rhythmic precision on short note figures