Just Friends: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Scott Ragsdale's arrangement gives the trombone section real musical responsibility without asking them to read above their comfortable range, which means your section players actually get to shine rather than survive. The samba groove sits naturally under the bones, and the written-out solos provide a road map that still leaves room for interpretation and personality.

Warm, swinging, and rhythmically grounded. The samba feel gives the piece a relaxed sophistication, and the trombone feature brings a conversational, blues-tinged quality that feels like a conversation between the section and the soloists.

Jazz ensembles at the Grade 3 level, particularly those with competent but still-developing trombone sections. Directors looking to feature brass in a groove-based setting will find this accessible and engaging for both players and audiences.

• Lock the rhythm section into the samba groove early; the pocket here is everything, and a solid foundation lets the trombones play freely over it.
• Balance the trombone section feature carefully during rehearsal so the soloists (bones 1 and 2) cut through without the section behind them disappearing.
• Give the lead trumpet player time to find the written A above the staff in a comfortable register; make sure the part sits well in their voice before full ensemble runs.

Program this midway through a concert when you want to shift energy and show off your trombone section without demanding technical heroics. It pairs well with a lyrical ballad beforehand and something up-tempo afterward.

• Playing samba rhythms and syncopation with precision
• Reading and executing section ensemble balance within a jazz style
• Interpreting written-out solos while maintaining personal musicality
• Responding to and blending with rhythm section groove
• High range navigation for lead trumpet (written A above staff)