Fat City Swing: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Morales knows exactly what an emerging jazz ensemble needs: a groove that sits easily, sectional writing that lets each group shine individually, and solos that student players can actually execute without weeks of practice. The balance between written-out solos and provided changes gives your players both the security of a scaffold and the flexibility to develop their own voice. This is the kind of chart that generates genuine enthusiasm in rehearsal.

Fat City Swing feels like a well-oiled machine from the opening statement. The melody lands with immediate accessibility, the groove sits naturally, and each section gets a moment in the spotlight that feels earned rather than obligatory. There's genuine joy in this chart, the kind of straightforward swing that audiences recognize instantly and ensembles enjoy performing.

Jazz ensemble directors working with developing programs, particularly those whose students are building foundational swing vocabulary and sectional confidence. This works well for groups at the 2.5 grade level that have the basic technical foundation but still benefit from scaffolded solos and expert rhythm section voicing.

• Set a solid swing feel with the rhythm section first. Have the drums and bass lock the groove in isolation before bringing in the horn sections so the whole band understands the pocket.
• Take advantage of the sectional showcases to build individual section confidence. Give each section a rehearsal spotting where they play their feature passages, even at half tempo, so players know exactly what's coming.
• Balance the written solos with encouragement to listen to the changes. Even though the solos are notated, help players understand the underlying harmonic movement so they can make musical choices in phrasing and dynamic shape.
• Keep the tempo relaxed and comfortable during early run-throughs. This tune will breathe better at a tempo where your least experienced rhythm section players can stay secure without rushing.

Program this as an energizer in the first half of a jazz concert, where it can establish audience comfort and band confidence before moving into more complex fare. It also works beautifully as a festival opener or in a spring pops program where you want crowd appeal alongside solid musicianship.

• Swing articulation and phrasing appropriate to the style
• Sectional balance and blend within horn groups
• Reading changes and navigating solo sections with provided harmonic maps
• Rhythm section comping and time-keeping in a jazz setting
• Responding to written solos as both performers and ensemble listeners