Charade (Solo Trombone Feature): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Mark Taylor's samba reframing of this Mancini classic gives your trombone soloist a chance to shine without the technical gatekeeping that often surrounds feature arrangements. The balance between solo spotlight and ensemble participation means every player in the section stays engaged, and the move from flowing accompaniment into full band unison creates natural dramatic shape. This is the kind of arrangement that reminds students why they joined band.

Urbane and swaying, with the kind of sophisticated groove that makes the rhythm section want to lock in. The trombone melody unfolds with a natural elegance over Latin percussion and punchy ensemble hits, creating moments of intimacy followed by collective energy that feels earned rather than imposed.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level with a capable trombone soloist who understands swing feel and can navigate a samba groove. This works equally well for programs building their first feature arrangements or those looking for a approachable jazz standard that doesn't demand extreme range or technical facility.

• Establish the samba pulse early with your rhythm section; the feel should swing without losing the Latin undercurrent, and this foundation will help your soloist land confidently on the pocket rather than fighting the tempo.
• Shape the ensemble shout section with clear articulation and unified dynamic contours so it lands as a payoff moment rather than a textural afterthought.
• Allow your trombone soloist space to explore the melody's lyrical contours in the opening solo section; this arrangement values phrasing over virtuosity, so encourage singing tone and expressive rubato within the samba feel.

Pair this with other Mancini standards or classic jazz features in a concert celebrating film music and popular songbook repertoire. It also works beautifully as a spring concert centerpiece that showcases your ensemble's ability to handle style and texture, or as an engaging piece for a jazz festival where the moderate demands leave room for nuanced interpretation.

• Samba rhythmic accompaniment patterns and Latin jazz feel
• Soloist-ensemble balance and listening across sections
• Phrasing and legato playing within a jazz articulation context
• Sustained harmonic support under a featured melody line