How High the Moon: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Dave Wolpe's arrangement gives the trombone section real star power, with generous solo space that lets each bone player shine individually while the rest of the ensemble supports them. The chart balances feature-friendly writing with solid ensemble section writing, so no matter your section's depth, the piece lands with energy and swing.

Bright, swinging, and unapologetically fun. The familiar melody sits naturally on bone, and the arrangement sparkles with the kind of rhythmic snap and harmonic clarity that makes jazz standards timeless. Expect your audience to recognize this one immediately.

Jazz ensemble directors with a capable trombone section looking for a feature that rewards focused section rehearsal and gives three players a substantial solo spotlight. This works equally well for high school jazz bands and college ensembles seeking accessible repertoire that still demands musicianship and swing sensibility.

• Shape the trombone solos with clear phrasing and dynamics; the ad lib sections invite stylistic choices, so encourage players to listen to jazz recordings and develop their own interpretive approach within the changes.
• Lock the rhythm section (piano, bass, drums) to a steady groove from the first rehearsal; tight timekeeping in the comping and bass line will anchor all three trombone soloists and keep the ensemble cohesive.
• Balance the ensemble tutti sections so they sit behind rather than under the featured trombone voices; the contrast between full-band hits and the soloists' space is what makes this arrangement work.
• Mark breath points clearly in the trombone parts during quick passages, especially in section A; your players will appreciate the roadmap and you'll get cleaner articulation and phrase continuity.

Slot this into a jazz concert as a feature number in the middle set, letting it serve as a confidence builder and energy lift before moving into something more demanding. It pairs naturally with other small-group jazz features or can anchor a section of trombone-focused charts.

• Jazz phrasing and articulation
• Solo construction over chord changes
• Ad lib improvisation or interpretation of written solo passages
• Ensemble balance and blend when transitioning between solo and tutti sections
• Swing rhythm and feel in a section context
• Listening and responding to other soloists in real time