Land of Make Believe: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Mike Story's arrangement captures the warmth of Mangione's original while giving young players realistic ensemble parts that actually demand listening and ensemble blending. The doubling of melody between alto sax and trumpet creates natural peer leaders on the section, and that drum solo gives your rhythm section a real moment to shine without overwhelming inexperienced soloists.

Warm and inviting, with a gentle samba lilt that feels more like a conversation than a performance. The melody floats over the rhythm section like Mangione's flugelhorn itself would, encouraging players to phrase lyrically rather than mechanically.

First-year jazz ensembles and groups still building fundamentals in swing style and section balance. The approachable ranges and ranges remove barriers to participation while the samba element keeps the chart fresh and engaging for young players.

• Balance the doubled melody by having your alto and trumpet players match tone quality and articulation in rehearsal; this unified sound is what makes the chart sing.
• Work the rhythmic figures independently by section before putting them together; the slightly tricky rhythms settle quickly once students own their own parts.
• Let the samba feel breathe naturally rather than pushing the tempo; this groove rewards patience and collective listening from the ensemble.

Place this early in your concert or as a dedicated jazz set opener; it sets a sophisticated tone without intimidating the audience or your players. It pairs well with other accessible fusion or samba-influenced charts in a themed set, or stands alone as proof that young ensembles can deliver genuine musicianship.

• Reading and executing syncopated rhythms in samba feel
• Balancing doubled melody lines with blended tone color
• Supporting a drum solo with attentive ensemble listening
• Phrasing jazz melody with natural inflection rather than mechanical attack