If I Could Fly: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

$48.00 USD

If I Could Fly: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Name: If I Could Fly: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-26868
Price: 48.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Mike Smukal

Grade: 2 (Medium Easy)

Item: 00-26868

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If I Could Fly Away is a lush ballad for solo tenor saxophone. Composer/arranger Mike Smukal weaves and contrasts minor and major harmonies and has created a superb chart for the younger player with lead trumpet range only to top line written F. The tenor solo is all written out and the rhythm section parts are very clear. An excellent vehicle for a young tenor sax player! This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, If I Could Fly: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Series: Young Jazz Ensemble

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 56

UPC: 038081300092

SKU: 00-26868

More about this title

About the Composer: Mike Smukal

Mike Smukal has established himself as a thoughtful arranger for developing jazz ensembles, with a particular gift for writing that respects young players' technical limitations while refusing to compromise musical sophistication. His charts prioritize clarity in the rhythm section and singable melodic lines, making them accessible teaching tools that still reward careful interpretation.

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Why we love this

Smukal's harmonic language here is genuinely sophisticated for Grade 2; the weaving of minor and major centers gives the piece emotional depth without overwhelming young players. The lead trumpet part caps out at written F, keeping the ensemble accessible while the tenor solo carries the weight, which means your section can support rather than struggle.

What to expect

A intimate, contemplative ballad with lush harmonic movement that shifts between darkness and warmth. The piece has the feel of a young player discovering what their instrument can express emotionally, supported by an ensemble that understands less is more.

Who it's for

Jazz ensembles at the middle or early high school level with a tenor saxophonist ready to step into a featured role. This works well for groups building their repertoire with accessible but musically interesting charts that don't compromise on artistry.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the tenor solo so it floats clearly above the ensemble; young rhythm sections often push too hard, so remind them this is a ballad requiring restraint and space.
Have the tenor practice the written-out solo with the recorded or live rhythm section early and often; internalizing the harmonic changes takes time, and the solo is the feature, not the accompaniment.
Let the ensemble find the swell and release of the chord changes together; Mark dynamic arrivals in the parts so brass and reeds breathe as one voice.
Emphasize tone quality over speed. At this level, a warm, singing tenor sound will carry more musicality than technical precision.

How to use it

Program this as a spotlight feature at a jazz concert or festival, where the contrast between the tender solo and the ensemble's gentle support will resonate with audiences. It also serves as a confidence builder for a developing tenor player in a low-pressure contest or festival setting.