Mongonucleosis (arr. Mike Tomaro): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Chicago
Grade: 4
Item: 35-PK00422471
$55.00
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Description
Of the relatively few number of instrumental hits recorded by pop group Chicago, "Mongonucleosis" recorded in 1974 remains a popular standout. This upbeat chart features a moderate rock groove, a catchy riff-based melody, and an open solo section for featuring one or more players.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00422471
More about this title
About the Artist: Chicago
Chicago emerged in the late 1960s as one of the few rock bands to seamlessly blend horns with electric instruments, creating a signature sound that dominated FM radio throughout the 1970s. The band's eight-piece lineup included a full brass section that performed intricate ensemble passages and powerful unison hits, establishing a template for horn-driven rock that influenced decades of popular music.
Why we love this
Mike Tomaro's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without requiring the kind of technical pyrotechnics that can intimidate young ensemble players. The riff-based construction gives students something tangible to lock onto, while the open solo section lets you showcase your strongest improvisers and keep rehearsals feeling fresh across multiple performances.
What to expect
Bright and propulsive, with a rock swagger that never loses its jazz credibility. The catchy riff sits right in the pocket where groove meets sophistication, giving student musicians the satisfaction of sounding contemporary and cool while still building real ensemble skills.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the upper middle school to early high school level who want to play something their students recognize and enjoy without overextending their range or technical demands. Directors looking for a high-energy opener or closer that energizes both performers and audiences will find this especially rewarding.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the groove pocket tight by establishing the rock feel with bass and drums before bringing in the full ensemble; a relaxed quarter-note pulse underneath the syncopated hits prevents the chart from feeling rushed.
- Balance the sax section against the trumpet and trombone parts so the riff comes through clearly without one section overpowering the melodic line.
- During solo sections, comp lightly behind the soloist rather than doubling down on rhythmic hits; this creates space and lets the improvisor breathe.
- Articulate the staccato passages with precision to define the rhythmic character; a clean, unified tongue stroke across the ensemble makes the difference between sloppy and sharp.
How to use it
Pair this with other 1970s pop rock arrangements to create a thematic concert section that demonstrates how brass instruments shaped mainstream music history. It also works beautifully as a program opener when you want to grab attention immediately and set an upbeat tone for the rest of the concert.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and executing syncopated rhythmic figures in a rock groove context
- Balancing ensemble blend when competing melodic lines appear in different sections
- Comping changes behind a soloist while maintaining rhythmic precision
- Articulation clarity and consistency across a full ensemble in staccato passages