Horn of Puente: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Goodwin's original Big Phat Band arrangement was already a masterclass in modern big band writing, and Story's Easy level adaptation captures that energy without sacrificing the Latin groove or ensemble interaction that makes this tune come alive. The written trumpet 1 solo and montuno piano part give your section leaders genuine material to shine on, while the optional auxiliary percussion and cued parts for winds mean you can scale the arrangement to match your ensemble's strengths. This is a genuine big band composition at an entry level, not a simplified knockoff.

Infectious and driving, with a Latin cha-cha pulse that feels both sophisticated and immediate. The montuno piano part and written horn lines create a professional big band atmosphere while remaining transparent enough for younger ensembles to navigate.

First-year and early-level jazz ensembles looking for authentic big band repertoire with real solo and section writing. Conductors who want their students to experience a contemporary jazz composition without sacrificing accessibility or ensemble maturity.

• Lock the rhythm section first: the piano montuno (cued in the saxes) and auxiliary percussion drive the Latin feel, so have your pianist and percussionists rehearse those grooves independently before the full ensemble joins.
• Feature your trumpet 1 soloist in sectional rehearsals so they own the written solo; this is a showcase moment that deserves individual attention.
• Experiment with the optional auxiliary percussion parts for winds to see which instruments enhance your specific ensemble's sound without muddying the texture.
• Keep the cha-cha bounce light and behind the beat; this groove lives in the pocket, not in front of it.

Place this on a jazz concert alongside more traditional swing charts to show your students the range of contemporary big band writing. The straightforward groove and clear sectional roles make it an excellent choice for winter and spring jazz programs when your ensemble has rehearsal time to develop the Latin feel.

• Latin cha-cha groove and pocket playing
• Reading and responding to cued parts and optional sections
• Ensemble balance with auxiliary and non-traditional percussion
• Small group soloing within a jazz ensemble context
• Rhythmic precision in syncopated big band arrangements