Boplicity: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

This arrangement strips away the complications that bog down many jazz charts and delivers genuine cool in its place. The written and ad-lib solo options give you flexibility to feature soloists at different readiness levels, and the tight voicings teach students how to voice a big band section without overwhelming them technically.

Cool, unhurried, and sophisticated. The arrangement breathes with the ease of musicians who trust each other, building from an energetic opening into a relaxed, mellow groove that feels more like hanging out than showing off.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who are ready to tackle authentic big band literature without requiring extensive technical fireworks. This works well for groups with developing soloists, since the written-out options eliminate the risk of leaving holes in the performance.

• Balance the melody with the ensemble in the opening sections; the background figures should support without drowning out the lead voice.
• Rehearse the transition at measure 135 separately, marking the shift from energetic playing to the mellow, laid-back feel that defines the final section.
• If your soloists choose the written-out option for alto 1 or trumpet 2, lock them in with the rhythm section through isolated sectional rehearsals.
• Emphasize the importance of space and silence in this arrangement; what the ensemble doesn't play matters as much as what it does.

Pair this with harder-swinging charts to demonstrate the full range of big band expression. Its moderate length (5:15) and comfortable difficulty make it ideal for mid-season programming, giving your ensemble a confidence boost before tackling more challenging material.

• Jazz ensemble balance and blend
• Interpreting written versus ad-lib solo sections
• Transitioning between contrasting tempos and feels
• Reading and executing tight harmonic voicings
• Sustaining a relaxed, laid-back groove