Here Comes Big 'Un: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

This chart captures what young jazz ensembles need: strong melodic writing over accessible harmony that doesn't require reading past the basics. Ford's inclusion of written solos with scored backgrounds for three different voices means your section leaders have clear material to work from while younger players solidify their ensemble skills, and the optional baritone part gives you flexibility as your band grows.

Relaxed and groovy. The Latin rock feel gives the piece motion and modern flavor, while the simple harmonic framework keeps attention on the cool melody and what each section brings to the arrangement. There's swagger here without technical pretension.

Jazz ensemble directors building a first-year repertoire where students can play real jazz language without advanced reading or range demands. Ensembles grades 1-2 will find the two-chord foundation especially useful for understanding blues-based harmony and Latin rhythm.

• Lock the groove first. The Latin rock feel depends on consistent rhythmic pocket from the rhythm section; establish that foundation before adding the melody and solos.
• Balance the background parts behind the featured soloist. These written sax and trombone backgrounds are meant to support, not compete, so dial back the volume slightly when anyone steps out front.
• Let the trumpet section sit comfortably in the middle of their range. Written only to E in the treble space keeps the sound accessible while maintaining brightness on the melody.
• Expand solos creatively if your band is ready. The chart leaves room to write additional solo backgrounds for other sections, so consider adding parts as players gain confidence with the ii-V language.

Program this alongside other accessible Latin charts to build a cohesive section of your concert or festival set. At under 3:30, it works well as a standalone feature or as one of two shorter pieces in a concert program designed to showcase your newest ensemble members.

• Reading and executing Latin rock rhythmic feels (especially clave-influenced patterns)
• Understanding and playing through a ii-V harmonic progression
• Balancing melody and background parts in small-group textures
• Following written solo sections and maintaining ensemble cohesion during improvisation
• Listening and responding to rhythm section timekeeping in real time