Hargrove: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Greasy, propulsive, and grounded in the straight-eighth pocket that defined modern jazz funk. The energy builds from the opening groove through the sax feature and into a slamming shout chorus that feels like a conversation between soloists and the ensemble.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate to advanced-intermediate level who are comfortable with funk grooves and want a chart that lands with attitude. Directors seeking a feature-rich arrangement that showcases soloists while maintaining ensemble cohesion will find this particularly useful.

• Lock the rhythm section into the straight-eighth feel early in rehearsal; a slightly laid-back pocket around 100 BPM will sit better than pushing the tempo.
• Balance the burnin' sax soli carefully so it soars over the rhythm section without drowning out the comping underneath.
• Use the optional flute and vibes in the shout chorus to brighten the texture and add harmonic color, especially if your ensemble enjoys doubling parts.

Program this in the heart of a jazz concert where you want momentum and audience engagement; it pairs well alongside ballads and uptempo swingers to create a well-rounded set. Consider placing it where your ensemble's confidence is highest, as the funk demands tight ensemble playing and the features require solid soloists.

• Executing straight-eighth rhythms with precision and pocket feel
• Reading and playing through soli with clear articulation
• Balancing soloist independence with ensemble synchronization
• Responding to optional instrumentation and dynamic arrangement choices