My Girl (arr. Rick Stitzel): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by The Temptations / As performed by Smokey Robinson / Arranged by Rick Stitzel
Grade: 2
Item: 35-PK00427228
$45.00
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Description
Here's the classic Motown hit from 1964 and The Temptations in a great-sounding arrangement for young players. No solos required. Just skillful scoring for the entire ensemble.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00427228
More about this title
About the Artist: The Temptations
The Temptations emerged from Detroit in the early 1960s and became one of Motown Records' defining acts. Their precise harmonies, choreographed movement, and impeccable musicianship set the standard for vocal group excellence and helped shape the sound of soul music.
The group's catalog, written and produced largely by Smokey Robinson and the Holland-Dozier-Holland team, remains essential listening for understanding American popular music. Their influence extends across generations of musicians and continues to inspire arrangements for student ensembles.
Why we love this
Rick Stitzel captures the warmth and sophistication of this Motown essential without requiring your ensemble to navigate soloists or complex rhythmic sections. The scoring distributes the melodic and harmonic content across the band so every section feels ownership of the arrangement, making it rewarding for both players and audience.
What to expect
Smooth, warm, and unhurried. The arrangement maintains the Motown sensibility of restrained elegance and groove-centered orchestration without demanding advanced rhythmic or technical literacy from young players.
Who it's for
Jazz ensemble directors working with Grade 2 players who want to program something sophisticated, recognizable, and accessible. Ensembles looking for repertoire that builds section cohesion rather than spotlighting individual soloists will find this arrangement especially useful.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening with clear articulation in the rhythm section; this Motown groove depends on precision from the bass and drums to establish the pocket immediately.
- Balance the vocals against the instrumental lines if you're featuring a vocalist. The ensemble parts are written to support, not compete.
- Pay attention to the voicing changes in the horns. Stitzel uses coloration shifts to maintain interest, so voice leading across sections should be smooth and intentional.
- Let the ensemble settle into the groove before increasing dynamic intensity. This tune lives in its pocket, not in volume.
How to use it
This works beautifully on a concert pairing older standards with contemporary arrangements, or as a centerpiece for a Motown or soul music-focused program. It also sits well in a jazz fundamentals concert where the focus is on ensemble listening and phrasing rather than individual star power.
Skills your students will build
- Interpreting swing feel and Motown groove conventions
- Balancing harmonic color across multiple sections
- Listening and responding to ensemble sound in real time
- Maintaining rhythmic precision within a walking groove
- Voicing and voice leading in a contemporary jazz context