Domino: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Story's arrangement captures the irresistible momentum of "Domino" while respecting the skill level of young ensembles. The written-out solos for alto, trumpet, and trombone remove the pressure of improvisation while the rock groove's straightforward pocket makes the chart feel effortless to play. Directors consistently find this one generates energy in the room without requiring advanced reading or technique.

Propulsive and funky, with an irresistible bounce that sits somewhere between rock and soul. The arrangement has personality without pretension; it swings on a rock foundation and invites players to feel the groove rather than overthink the mechanics.

First and second-year jazz ensemble directors looking for repertoire that sounds polished without overwhelming developing readers. Young players benefit from the written solos, which provide structure while the infectious tune and accessible voicings keep engagement high.

• Lock the rhythm section into a tight pocket from the start; the groove is the foundation that makes everything else click. If your drummer and bassist nail the feel, the soloists will have solid ground to stand on.
• Shape the written solo sections with dynamic phrasing rather than playing them flat. These aren't throwaway passages; they're chances for your soloists to develop musicality within the written line.
• Keep the tempo steady and confident. Young ensembles sometimes rush or drag on rock grooves, so establish a tempo reference early in rehearsal and reinforce it consistently.

Place this mid-set on a jazz concert to shift energy and connect with audiences who know the tune. It also works well as a festival piece where the combination of polish and accessibility scores well with adjudicators evaluating young ensembles.

• Playing swing and rock feels simultaneously
• Reading and executing written melodic solos
• Locking into a groove with the rhythm section
• Balancing independence with ensemble unity in a funk-based texture