Can't Go Wrong: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

$40.00 USD

Can't Go Wrong: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Can't Go Wrong: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-JE4051
Price: 40.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Ken Mattis

Grade: 3

Item: 98-JE4051

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This original shuffle is solidly scored with a Benny Golson/Quincy Jones flavor. The saxes are featured on the head with the solo in the first tenor part. The bridge features a two sax/two trumpet ensemble with a tasty pyramid background that is fun to play. Ken has gone to great lengths to write extensive rhythm section parts, assuring that even the most inexperienced players can make this one sound smooth.

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Series: FJH Intermediate Jazz Ensemble

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 674398208708

SKU: 98-JE4051

More about this title

About the Composer: Ken Mattis

Ken Mattis has built his reputation writing accessible yet sophisticated jazz charts for student ensembles. His work demonstrates a deep understanding of what makes student musicians sound polished without requiring virtuosic abilities, a balance that comes from years of classroom experience and attention to practical ensemble needs.

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Why we love this

Ken's attention to the rhythm section elevates this beyond typical Grade 3 fare. He writes walking bass lines, comping patterns, and drum parts that give inexperienced players genuine musical roles rather than just keeping time, which means your rhythm section feels professional from day one. The front line gets to play with real swagger on a head that sits beautifully in the pocket.

What to expect

Smooth and groove-oriented, built on the foundations of classic soul jazz and small-group swing. The shuffle burns with a relaxed confidence that invites the ensemble to play with conviction rather than hesitation.

Who it's for

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who want a piece that sounds professional and swings without requiring advanced improvisational skills. Conductors looking for repertoire that builds serious rhythm section musicianship will find exactly what they need here.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the saxes on the head so they blend as one voice rather than individual soloists. The strength of the section comes from unified articulation and dynamics.
Lock the first tenor soloist with your bass player during the solo section. A clean conversation between those two voices will carry the solo and keep the energy forward.
Spend rehearsal time on the bridge ensemble passage. The two saxes and two trumpets need to lock in together, and the pyramid background parts require precision to land the rhythmic hits cleanly.
The shuffle feel is everything here. Make sure your rhythm section understands the triplet-based swing and isn't playing straight eighths.

How to use it

Pair this with other swing standards or blues-based pieces to build a cohesive set that showcases your ensemble's command of the jazz idiom. It works equally well as a concert opener that gets the audience in the right frame of mind or as the anchor piece in a jazz-focused concert.