I'll Take Les Cover Image

I'll Take Les: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

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I'll Take Les Cover Image

I'll Take Les: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

By John Scofield / arr. Mike Kamuf

Grade: 3 (Medium)

Item: 00-41162S

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Description
A straight-eighth groove that's a little funky plus a catchy melody at 130 BPM, and you have a winner. Features written solos for tenor, trumpet 2, or guitar, lead trumpet range to written A, a great bari sax part, and optional parts for Latin percussion and vibes. Excellent writing. (5:15) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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Additional Details
Series: Jazz Band Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 24
UPC: 038081474243
SKU: 00-41162S

More about this title

About the Composer: John Scofield

John Scofield is a guitarist and composer whose work has shaped contemporary jazz since the 1970s. Known for blending funk, fusion, and bebop sensibilities, Scofield has performed with some of jazz's most influential ensembles and brings that professional sensibility to his compositions for student musicians.

His writing for jazz ensembles emphasizes strong grooves, memorable melodies, and the kind of straightforward musicianship that works in both classroom and festival settings. Scofield understands what young players need: clear lines to follow, inviting solo opportunities, and material that sounds authentically jazz without being unnecessarily complex.

Why we love this

This arrangement respects the Grade 3 level while delivering the kind of funk-forward groove and tight writing that makes students feel like real jazz players. The optional percussion and vibes parts give you flexibility in instrumentation, and the built-in solo opportunities across multiple voices mean everyone gets a moment to shine.

What to expect

Straight-eighth funk with swagger. The melody sits in a place that feels accessible but still cool, and the groove invites players to lock in and feel the pocket. Five-plus minutes gives the band room to breathe and develop the vibe.

Who it's for

Jazz ensembles at the Grade 3 level who have solid rhythmic foundation and can handle small-group independence. Directors looking for a piece that sounds professional and modern without requiring extensive rehearsal time will find this especially useful.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lock the rhythm section into the straight-eighth groove before layering in the melody. The pocket here is everything; rushing or dragging will undermine the funky character.
  • Balance the written solos so the soloist doesn't get buried under the ensemble. Rehearse with the recorded accompaniment to hear the intended blend.
  • If you add Latin percussion, keep it tight and deliberate. The groove is funky, not sloppy; clarity wins over volume.
  • Work lead trumpet's high passage (written A) in isolation. Confirm everyone can handle the tessitura before full section runs.

How to use it

This works as an early-season or mid-season crowd pleaser at jazz festivals, or as a concert opener that gets the audience energized. Its straightforward appeal also makes it a smart choice for showcasing your ensemble's sound without pulling too much rehearsal time away from more demanding repertoire.

Skills your students will build

  • Straight-eighth feel and funk groove interpretation
  • Small-group balance in written solos (tenor, trumpet 2, guitar)
  • Lead trumpet range extension (written A)
  • Section cohesion in a tightly grooved ensemble context
  • Optional: percussion parts and vibes integration

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