Learn to Fly: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

John Berry's arrangement captures everything that makes this tune work: the irresistible hook, the kinetic forward momentum, and the kind of energy that doesn't depend on virtuosic soloing. Grade 2 charts this accessible rarely sound this polished, with the melodic trading among sections creating natural ensemble texture while keeping technical demands manageable. Your students will sound genuinely good playing this.

This chart captures the breezy, optimistic quality of the original recording. There's a lightness to it despite the rock foundation, with enough harmonic movement to stay interesting without ever feeling heavy or complex. Playing it feels like momentum; your ensemble builds something that carries the room along with it.

Jazz ensemble directors at the middle school and early high school levels will find this especially valuable. It works for groups that aren't quite ready for the technical demands of Grade 3 material but need something with real personality and contemporary relevance.

• Lock the groove first. The chart relies on a consistent rhythmic pocket, so establish that foundation before worrying about blend or balance.
• Treat the melodic exchanges between sections as conversations rather than solo moments. This keeps the arrangement flowing smoothly and prevents awkward handoffs.
• Keep the energy lifted but controlled. The tune wants to soar, but young ensembles often rush when they get excited. A steady, intentional tempo helps maintain shape.
• Balance your rhythm section carefully. With no solos to anchor attention, the drums and bass carry responsibility for keeping the ensemble grounded.

Program this alongside other contemporary rock or pop arrangements to show students that jazz ensemble repertoire extends well beyond standards and swing. It also works beautifully in a pops concert where you want to establish your jazz program's contemporary chops without the weight of heavier material. The no-solo format makes it flexible for guest performers or situation where you want full ensemble texture throughout.

• Trading melodies across instrumental sections with rhythmic clarity
• Maintaining steady groove under section solos and ensemble figures
• Reading and executing syncopated rhythms in rock/pop context
• Balancing melody and accompaniment roles within an ensemble texture
• Interpreting stylistic articulation and phrasing in popular music