La Quema del Diablo (The Burning of the Devil): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

López constructs this arrangement with real jazz maturity: the shuffle grooves hard, the solo space gives soloists room to breathe, and the shout chorus lands with genuine impact. The lead trumpet writing to high D demands chops without becoming gratuitous, and the stop-time solis create natural ensemble moments that feel earned rather than inserted.

Propulsive and fun. The swing-shuffle grooves without apology, the melody has hooks that stick, and the arrangement generates genuine energy from introduction through shout chorus. This is music designed to make both the ensemble and the audience feel the groove.

Jazz ensemble directors working with Grade 4 ensembles who want a contemporary crowd-pleaser with real swing language and substantive solo opportunities. This demands solid section reading, confident rhythm section players, and at least one capable lead trumpet, making it ideal for advanced high school or college jazz bands.

• Lock the rhythm section into a tight swing-shuffle pocket before the ensemble enters; the power introduction sets the tone for the whole piece, and any looseness here undermines the momentum.
• Give tenor sax and first trombone clear solo frontings well ahead of rehearsal. These are featured voices, not background accompaniment, and they deserve practice time to claim their space.
• Mark the high D passages in the lead trumpet part and address range endurance early. This is a 4:48 piece with sustained energy; the lead player needs a plan for managing fatigue.
• Balance the shout chorus so the ensemble swings without drowning out the soloists who may still be trading during this section.

Program this as the opener on a jazz concert or as the centerpiece of a jazz showcase where you want to demonstrate your ensemble's swing facility and solo strength. Its length (just under five minutes) and high energy make it an excellent bridge between opening numbers and more introspective pieces.

• Swing-shuffle articulation and rhythmic precision in the rhythm section
• Solo navigation over jazz changes (tenor sax and trombone featured lines)
• Stop-time section reading and ensemble coordination
• Lead trumpet endurance and range management at high D
• Shout chorus ensemble blend and dynamics