Jazz Combo Pak #37 (Count Basie): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

These four arrangements capture the essence of Count Basie's big band sound while remaining genuinely achievable at Grade 3. Taylor's voicings sit perfectly on student instruments, and each tune offers a distinct character so your ensemble gains exposure to blues basics, swing phrasing, and the rhythmic drive that defines the Basie style.

Swinging, sophisticated, and grounded in blues feeling. The music breathes with the relaxed confidence of a band that knows its pocket, balancing ensemble precision with the freedom that makes jazz sing. Soloists will find room to express while the section work sits comfortably and supports rather than constrains.

Intermediate jazz ensembles ready to move beyond rock covers and simplified blues heads. This collection works for groups with at least one year of jazz ensemble experience and solid readers across all sections.

• Establish the groove in the rhythm section first. Have your piano, bass, and drums work the head together before bringing in the horns; this foundation makes everything else lock into place.
• Listen to the Basie originals as a group during rehearsal. Hearing how the master phrased these tunes gives your players a model for swing articulation that written instruction alone cannot convey.
• Balance the saxophone section carefully. The voicing sits high, so voicing balance (especially first chair clarity) prevents the section from sounding muddy.
• Give soloists space to breathe and respond to the rhythm section. These charts have room for genuine jazz conversation, not just note-reading.

Open a spring jazz concert with these four tunes as a suite that showcases both ensemble work and featured soloists. The variety within the pack (blues, swing, ballad sensibility) lets you program them separately across multiple concerts without repetition.

• Swing articulation and rhythmic placement
• Blues form and chord changes
• Ensemble balance in saxophone and trumpet sections
• Comping and rhythmic interplay with the rhythm section
• Solo improvisation over jazz standards
• Phrase phrasing and musical pacing in a swinging context