One Note Samba (arr. Paul Murtha): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
By Antonio Carlos Jobim / As performed by Pat Thomas / Arranged by Paul Murtha
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00477300
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Description
When it comes to Latin compositions, it just doesn't get any better than the music of Antonio Carlos Jobim. This classic tune is nicely adapted for young players, featuring the brass on the "one note" melody and the saxes on the "more than one note" bridge. The easy-flowing groove and solid ensemble writing help insure a great sounding arrangement for any band.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00477300
More about this title
About the Composer: Antonio Carlos Jobim
Antonio Carlos Jobim shaped modern Brazilian music as a composer, pianist, and songwriter whose work bridged classical training with popular songwriting. His compositions, including the bossa nova standards that defined an era, became the foundation of twentieth century Latin jazz and remain central to the world music repertoire.
Why we love this
Murtha's arrangement captures the elegance of Jobim's writing while keeping the technical demands manageable for young ensembles. The split melody concept, with brass carrying the iconic single note and saxes taking the busier bridge line, creates natural sectional spotlight moments that feel fresh every time you perform it.
What to expect
Warm and unhurried, with a rhythmic pulse that invites movement. The arrangement breathes with the ease of a Rio afternoon while maintaining the sophisticated harmonies that made Jobim legendary.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who are ready to explore authentic Latin repertoire with real melodic and harmonic substance. This works equally well for concert bands looking to add a stylistically accurate samba to their toolkit.
How to get the most out of it
- Build the groove from the rhythm section outward. Lock the bass and drums into a relaxed samba feel before layering the harmonic textures; this foundation gives your brass and reeds permission to float on top.
- Shape the "one note" brass melody with dynamic space rather than aggressive articulation. The power of this figure lies in its simplicity and pocket, not in forcing it.
- Balance the saxophone bridge passage so it sits slightly in front of the ensemble but never overshadows the groove. This is a moment for sophistication, not showmanship.
- Let the ensemble breathe at natural musical phrases. Avoid rushing the tempo when energy builds; instead, deepen the groove and let time feel luxurious.
How to use it
Place this alongside other standards in a jazz or Latin-focused concert to show students how American big band tradition meets Brazilian songwriting. It also sits naturally in a spring concert celebrating world music or as a concert opener that energizes an audience immediately.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and executing syncopated rhythmic figures in a samba context
- Playing with ensemble swing while maintaining precise articulation
- Balancing sectional roles (featured melody versus harmonic support)
- Controlling tone and dynamics in a groove-based setting
- Understanding II-V-I progressions in Latin music