Manteca (arr. Mike Tomaro): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Arranged by Mike Tomaro
Grade: 4-5
Item: 35-PK00445484
$45.00
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Description
One of the earliest examples of the fusion of Afro-Cuban elements into jazz, Dizzy Gillespie's classic composition is updated here for the Little Big Band format from Mike Tomaro's popular big band chart. Mike added some new material just for fun.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00445484
More about this title
About the Arranger: Mike Tomaro
Mike Tomaro has shaped the landscape of accessible big band writing for decades, creating arrangements that honor the language of jazz while remaining genuinely playable for student ensembles. His Little Big Band series strikes a rare balance: charts that sound substantial and swinging without requiring professional-level facility, making him an essential resource for directors who refuse to compromise on musical integrity.
Why we love this
Tomaro captures the infectious energy of Gillespie's original while making room for students to actually explore the harmonic and rhythmic vocabulary of Afro-Cuban jazz. His additions feel organic rather than gratuitous, and the Little Big Band voicings give even smaller ensembles that full, grounded sound that makes soloists shine.
What to expect
Manteca radiates joy and propulsion. The Afro-Cuban percussion colors sit alongside bebop changes with the naturalness of a conversation between old friends, while the arrangement's forward momentum invites soloists to stretch and bend the time without ever losing sight of the groove.
Who it's for
Jazz ensemble directors at the intermediate level who want their students to engage with a genuine jazz standard rather than a simplified knockoff. This works equally well for groups of 12 or 18, making it adaptable to programs of different sizes.
How to get the most out of it
- Lock the ride cymbal and bass line together before rehearsing the full section; the Latin groove hinges on their conversation, and once that's solid, the trumpet and alto lines fall into place naturally.
- Build the clave rhythm into your warm-ups at least a week before the first full rehearsal. Students who can feel that heartbeat internally will navigate the syncopation without constantly checking the chart.
- Record a rough run-through early and play it back for the ensemble. Hearing themselves swing together over the Latin foundation often clicks something in their ears that talking about it never will.
- Give soloists space to personalize their passages. Tomaro's arrangement invites interpretation, and young players discover jazz language fastest when they have permission to find their own voice within the structure.
How to use it
Pair this with other Latin jazz standards to build a concert around the history of Cuban influence in American jazz. It also serves as an excellent opener or closer; the energy carries momentum without wearing out your ensemble's chops before deeper repertoire.
Skills your students will build
- Comping changes over a Latin groove
- Reading clave-based rhythms and syncopation
- Balancing ensemble blend with soloistic interpretation
- Swing feel and phrasing within a 4/4 Latin context
- Communication between rhythm section and horns