Groovin': 1st Percussion

Hodges writes jazz with accessibility in mind, and "Groovin'" proves that young bands don't need advanced harmonic language to feel the authentic swing and interplay that makes jazz rewarding. The walking bass and drum patterns anchor the arrangement so students can focus on learning jazz articulation and phrasing without wrestling with complex rhythmic notation. Most importantly, this is a piece that actually sounds like a real jazz ensemble, not a simplified approximation of one.

"Groovin'" has the relaxed confidence of a jazz standard. The walking bass line gives the music forward momentum while the drum patterns snap and syncopate, creating a pocket that feels genuinely groovy rather than stiff or academic. Melodies sit naturally over this foundation, allowing the whole band to lock in and feel the joy of playing together with style.

Beginning and early intermediate concert bands (grades 5-9) looking to add jazz repertoire without overwhelming younger players. This piece works well for groups that are solid on fundamentals but have little or no experience with swing feel and jazz style. It's an excellent entry point for students who want to explore jazz as a concert band genre.

• Lock the rhythm section (bass and drums) in rehearsal before adding the rest of the band. A solid, tight foundation lets everyone else swing more confidently.
• Emphasize the jazz articulations throughout. Light, bouncy tonguing on the melody lines will bring out the groove that the walking bass establishes.
• Give the drummers ownership of their short fills and interactions with the band. These moments are what make the piece come alive and keep energy high.
• Use the recorded accompaniment if available to help students internalize the swing feel and timing, especially during early rehearsals.

Program this during the spring concert when your band is ready to showcase stylistic growth beyond traditional concert repertoire. The 2:15 duration fits comfortably alongside a mixed program of classical and contemporary pieces. It also works as a festival selection for bands seeking accessible but musically legitimate jazz literature.

• Jazz articulation and phrasing on wind instruments
• Listening to and locking with a rhythmic foundation (bass and drums)
• Understanding walking bass lines and their role in jazz
• Basic swing feel and syncopation
• Rhythmic coordination across sections
• Ensemble balance in a jazz context