It's Not Polite to Point: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

This chart captures what makes the Big Phat Band's sound distinctive: a trombone section that gets to breathe and lead without requiring superhuman chops from your ensemble. Goodwin writes for what students can actually deliver while still asking them to dig into their musicality, and the published solo changes give your section players clear pathways into the style.

A swinging, energetic big band number that keeps the trombone section engaged and prominent throughout. The writing has the hallmark clarity and punch of Goodwin's style, with rhythmic precision and harmonic sophistication that feels modern without alienating traditional jazz audiences.

Advanced jazz ensembles looking for a chart that highlights the trombone section without requiring professional-level technical facility across the entire band. Programs performing this recording will connect immediately with directors and students familiar with the Big Phat Band's catalog.

• Balance the trombone section carefully during the lead passages; they're the star here, so resist the urge to let ensemble brass volumes creep up behind them.
• Mark your lead trumpet's high G entrance well in advance during rehearsals. It's the one technical moment that will expose sloppy preparation.
• Work through the solo changes as written first, then encourage your soloists to hear how the Big Phat Band recording handles phrasing and rhythm section interaction.
• Build endurance gradually over several rehearsals rather than running the full chart repeatedly; the 'bones need time to adjust to the stamina demands.

This works especially well on a concert celebrating contemporary big band composers or when you want to feature your trombone section prominently. Consider programming it alongside other Goodwin charts to showcase his range, or place it in the second half of a concert where your ensemble has warmed into their endurance.

• Reading and executing idiomatic swing rhythms and articulation in a section setting
• Managing stamina and breath control during extended solo and ensemble passages
• Interpreting jazz style and phrasing from recorded models
• Ensemble balance and blend within a featured section context
• Solo improvisation from provided changes across multiple voices