Lo' Flame: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Dobbins anchors this arrangement in a familiar harmonic foundation while building a genuinely fresh solo vehicle for your trumpet section. The structure unfolds logically from ensemble soli to individual features, giving each musician a moment to shine while the rhythm section drives the action forward.

A swinging, upbeat performance that captures the warmth of swing-era sensibility. The piece moves with purpose from its relaxed opening through energetic solo sections, then settles into a satisfying close that feels both inevitable and brief.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate to advanced level who have solid section reading and at least a few musicians capable of playing lead trumpet passages cleanly. Directors seeking a feature that showcases the entire trumpet line without requiring advanced improvisation from every player.

• Shape the opening rhythm section groove with clarity and pocket; the trumpets' entrance will land harder when the foundation swings.
• Balance the trumpet soli so all voices cut through without one player dominating; this is ensemble playing, not a showcase for the strongest lead.
• Encourage soloists to hear the harmonic progression underneath their improvisation rather than thinking of isolated chord changes; 'All of Me''s bones show through.
• Give the drum chorus breathing room and dynamic shape; it's a turning point that builds momentum into the final theme.

This works well in a jazz concert where you want to highlight section strength and give your trumpet players a signature moment. Place it alongside a slower ballad feature and an ensemble-driven swing number to create balanced programming that showcases different aspects of your group.

• Balancing ensemble blend while maintaining individual voice clarity in soli passages
• Listening for harmonic movement during improvised solos
• Swing articulation and phrasing in both written and improvised sections
• Ensemble cohesion across rhythm section and horn sections with varying degrees of written vs. improvised material