Just Friends: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Ragsdale's arrangement centers the trombone section in a way that feels genuinely musical, not like a gimmick. The samba groove gives your ensemble a rhythmic foundation that sits naturally under the bones' written solos, and the Grade 3 level means your section can handle the spotlight without requiring virtuosos.

Breezy and groove-oriented, with a samba pulse that keeps the energy moving. The trombone feature roles feel conversational and relaxed rather than showy, making room for the whole ensemble to play a role in the texture.

Jazz ensembles with solid section players but without requiring advanced individual soloists. Directors looking to feature trombones in a chart that balances accessibility with genuine musical interest will find this a natural fit.

• Balance the written trombone solos carefully against the rhythm section; the samba groove should propel the soloists forward rather than overshadow them.
• Lock the trumpet lead into the upper range work (written A) with precision; this range sits exposed and requires clean attacks and consistent intonation across the phrase.
• Let the samba rhythm breathe in the ensemble. Have the rhythm section anchor the groove early in rehearsal before layering in the front line parts.

Place this on a jazz concert to give your trombone section profile without requiring an entirely trombone-focused set. Its Grade 3 level and standard tune choice make it a solid opener or bridge piece between heavier charts.

• Reading and executing samba rhythms in a jazz context
• Solo articulation and phrasing over ensemble texture
• Balance between section feature and ensemble contribution
• Comping and rhythm section coordination in Latin-jazz feel