First Year Charts Collection for Jazz Ensemble: 2nd Trombone Book

A mix of familiar standards and fresh arrangements that keeps rehearsals energized. You'll move from the bluesy swagger of One O'Clock Jump to the sophisticated understatement of a James Bond arrangement, then swing hard into the holiday spirit with A Jazzy Merry Christmas. The variety keeps young ensembles engaged while the warm-up chart "Loosen Up" gives you a reliable opener on performance days.

Second trombonists in beginning jazz ensembles who need engaging, approachable material with melodic responsibility built into every chart. Players new to jazz will find written solos and clear harmonic support that builds confidence for later improvisation. This collection works for players still developing tone control and ensemble listening skills.

• Balance your tone so the second trombone line cuts through without competing with the first trombone's lead voice. Listen carefully to ensemble recordings to hear where your voice sits in the texture.
• Treat the written-out solos as models for phrasing and rhythmic placement. Study them carefully before attempting any improvisation to understand the expected style and range.
• Lock in rhythmically with the bass and drums during ensemble hits, especially on the rock and swing charts where precision timing defines the groove.

Use these 12 charts as your core second-semester jazz ensemble repertoire once students have learned basic jazz vocabulary and blend. The stylistic range makes them excellent vehicles for teaching different feels (swing vs. rock vs. Latin) without jumping to advanced material. Most importantly, they're playable in multiple configurations, so you can rehearse confidently whether you have a full section or need flexibility due to absences.

• Reading jazz notation and rhythmic figures characteristic of different styles (swing, rock, Latin, ballad)
• Playing written-out jazz solos with authentic phrasing and articulation
• Blending as a section voice while maintaining individual tone quality
• Understanding harmonic function and voice leading within a jazz ensemble context
• Reading chord symbols and understanding basic jazz voicing concepts through rhythm section examples