Mokopuni Magic (Island Magic): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
By Mark Taylor
Grade: 5
Item: 35-PK00446428
$60.00
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Description
Reminiscent of the music Mark Taylor wrote for the Stan Kenton Orchestra, this fiery showpiece features a churning Afro-Cuban groove alternating with sections in swing. Small group scoring is contrasted with full ensemble passages, and you'll need a few additional percussionists to fill out the Latin sound! Includes solos for alto sax and guitar.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00446428
More about this title
About the Composer: Mark Taylor
Mark Taylor has built a reputation as a composer and arranger deeply versed in the big band and jazz ensemble idiom, drawing inspiration from the orchestral textures and harmonic sophistication of mid-century jazz masters like Stan Kenton. His writing for jazz ensembles balances accessibility with genuine musical substance, creating charts that challenge student musicians while remaining deeply playable at their level.
Why we love this
Taylor captures the energy of classic Stan Kenton writing here without requiring professional-level chops from every player. The alternation between tight Latin grooves and swing sections gives you natural variety in a single piece, and the scored contrasts between small group and full ensemble create real dramatic shape that audiences feel immediately.
What to expect
Controlled fire. The Afro-Cuban sections churn with propulsive energy and crisp definition, while the swing passages breathe and swing with sophistication. You'll feel the influence of big band arranging tradition throughout, but the Latin flavors give it a contemporary edge that keeps the piece from feeling nostalgic.
Who it's for
Advanced high school jazz ensembles and skilled community college groups that have solid Latin groove experience and players capable of handling unison lines with articulation. Directors looking for a showpiece with real musical substance, not just flash.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the Afro-Cuban clave firmly before rehearsal begins. Have your rhythm section internalize this pattern so the groove feels inevitable rather than imposed.
- Balance the alto sax and guitar solos carefully in the mix. These voices need clarity against the ensemble, so the rhythm section should lock tight and sit back slightly during these passages.
- Hire committed percussionists beyond your standard jazz kit player. The Latin textures require timbral variety and ensemble percussion parts that amateur players can muddy quickly.
- Mark the transitions between the Latin sections and swing sections with clear preparation gestures. These mood shifts define the piece, and they need precision to land.
How to use it
Reserve this for a spring or end-of-year concert where your ensemble can showcase versatility and technical growth. It pairs well with a ballad or standard on the same program, proving your group can navigate multiple styles with control and style.
Skills your students will build
- Afro-Cuban groove articulation and rhythmic precision
- Latin percussion layering and ensemble blend
- Stylistic contrast between Latin and swing feels
- Small group and full ensemble balance
- Solo development and accompaniment sensitivity