Central Shuffle: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

$40.00 USD

Central Shuffle: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Central Shuffle: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-JE4025
Price: 40.00 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

By Rachel Steckler

Grade: 3

Item: 98-JE4025

Need it now?

Buy Digital Version

$40.00

Shipped

One moment…

Reminiscent of the great Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Band, this tune settles into a nice groove after a tongue-in-cheek intro that's sure to bring back visions of the Groove Merchant. Rachel has scored this fine original to feature the saxes on the head, and later the tenor in the solo spotlight, complete with changes and a suggested written-out part for the developing jazz musician. Check it out for your festival program.

Central Shuffle: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.

Request This Title

Tell us you want it.

Start Your Free Trial

Explore everything that's ready to play right now.

No sample videos found.

Series: FJH Intermediate Jazz Ensemble

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 674398207619

SKU: 98-JE4025

More about this title

About the Composer: Rachel Steckler

Rachel Steckler has established herself as a composer and arranger with a keen ear for authentic jazz writing and pedagogical clarity. Her work for student ensembles balances accessibility with genuine musical substance, drawing on the vocabulary of classic big band arranging while remaining thoughtfully conceived for developing musicians.

Show moreShow less

Why we love this

Steckler writes for student jazz ensembles with genuine stylistic sophistication. She captures the swagger of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis tradition without overwhelming developing musicians, and her choice to feature the saxophone section first and the tenor soloist second gives multiple players meaningful moments while keeping the arrangement accessible.

What to expect

A cool, mid-tempo shuffle that slides into an easy pocket. The head has the unmistakable flavor of classic big band swing, while the solo section invites musicians to stretch without strain. The tongue-in-cheek opening sets a playful tone that the ensemble carries through the entire performance.

Who it's for

Jazz ensemble directors working with Grade 3 musicians who are ready for genuine swing repertoire with solo opportunities. This is ideal for ensembles developing their groove vocabulary and for soloists (particularly tenor saxophone players) seeking a vehicle that doesn't demand advanced harmonic knowledge but rewards musical maturity.

How to get the most out of it

Lock the groove early in rehearsal. The shuffle feel is the heartbeat of this tune; invest time establishing a relaxed swing before moving to the soloists or pushing tempo.
Give the tenor soloist the written-out changes and suggested solo part. These guide improvisation for musicians still building solo confidence, but encourage them to internalize and personalize the changes once they're secure.
Balance the saxophone section voicing during the head. These voices are front and center; make sure the lead voice cuts through without drowning out the harmonies underneath.
Let the intro's tongue-in-cheek character breathe. The humor lands hardest when the rhythm section and front line aren't rushing to get to the groove; play it with space and attitude.

How to use it

Feature this at a festival where swing repertoire strengthens your set. It pairs well alongside other Grade 3 jazz standards and sits naturally in a mixed program that balances composed heads with improvisation. The length and energy make it an excellent choice for a pre-intermission slot.