In A Mellow Tone (arr. Mark Taylor): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Arranged by Mark Taylor
Grade: 4
Item: 35-PK01288769
$40.00
Pickup currently not available
Buy Extra Parts (Digital PDF Download)
Parts Added to Cart!
Description
Great medium swing classic from the Ellington catalog of standards. What a perfect addition to any combo library.
In A Mellow Tone (arr. Mark Taylor): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Request This Title
Tell us you want it.
Start Your Free Trial
Explore everything that's ready to play right now.
Sample Audio
No sample audio found.
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK01288769
More about this title
About the Arranger: Mark Taylor
Mark Taylor has built a reputation as one of the most prolific and respected arrangers in jazz education. His arrangements balance authentic jazz language with clear pedagogical intent, making standards and original compositions accessible to developing ensembles without sacrificing musical integrity.
Why we love this
Taylor's hand here respects the sophistication of the Ellington original while keeping ensemble voicings manageable for Grade 4 players. The arrangement sits comfortably in the medium swing pocket and gives soloists room to stretch without requiring virtuosic chops.
What to expect
Warm and unhurried, with the kind of sophistication that makes players feel like they're making real jazz music. The melody carries a gentle lyricism that invites emotional investment without demanding technical heroics.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the Grade 4 level looking to build a solid repertoire of standards that audiences recognize and players enjoy. This works equally well for combos and larger jazz bands wanting an approachable swing vehicle.
How to get the most out of it
- Anchor the swing feel by locking the rhythm section's interpretation of the backbeat; a crisp hi-hat and relaxed walking bass establish the groove that melodic voices ride on.
- Shape the opening melody with gentle dynamic contours rather than playing it straight; Ellington's compositions reward subtle phrasing that implies sophistication.
- Balance solo sections by having the rhythm section comp actively underneath rather than just filling space. Comping chords should breathe alongside the soloist's phrasing.
- Bring out the color of the Ellington harmony by tuning voiced chords carefully in the saxes and trombones; these voicings matter more than harmonic thickness.
How to use it
Pair this with other Ellington or early jazz standards to create a cohesive set that traces the roots of jazz repertoire. It also fits naturally into a concert exploring swing style fundamentals or as an accessible opener that sets a relaxed, conversational tone.
Skills your students will build
- Swing feel interpretation and rhythmic precision in jazz contexts
- Voicing awareness and chord balance in ensemble saxophone and trombone sections
- Solo development with structure and call-and-response phrasing
- Listening and comping skills for rhythm section players
- Stylistically appropriate dynamics and articulation in jazz idiom