Phat Kat: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

López delivers everything a Grade 2 jazz director needs: genuine swing style, clear sectional writing that showcases different instrumental voices, and zero reliance on improvisation to make the piece work. The baritone sax spotlight and that Latin quote give students memorable moments to own, while the playable first trumpet range (up to written G) keeps the section confident rather than stretched.

Propulsive and warm, with a Latin heartbeat that never gets in the way of the melody. The orchestration balances big ensemble hits with intimate sectional moments, creating energy that feels earned rather than forced. There's joy in this writing, and students feel it.

Grade 2 jazz ensembles ready to explore Latin style without improvisation demands. This works equally well for directors seeking contest or festival material, or those programming a concert with serious musical substance at an accessible level.

• Balance the contrasting ensemble sections by rehearsing them separately, then layer them to hear how each contributes to the overall texture before running the full score.
• Give the baritone saxophonist room to breathe and command the ensemble during that featured line; lock the rhythm section tightly behind them so the solo voice stands out.
• Nail the Latin groove early in rehearsals. The rhythmic feel drives everything; isolate the drum kit and low brass to establish the pocket before adding upper voices.

Program this as a solo feature on a full jazz concert, or pair it with a ballad and up-tempo standard to round out a three-piece set. It also earns its place in a festival or competition program where grade-appropriate repertoire with real harmonic and rhythmic interest stands out.

• Latin jazz rhythm patterns and feel
• Sectional ensemble balance and blend
• Reading slash notation and syncopated rhythms
• Articulation control in swing and Latin contexts
• Featured soloist support and accompaniment roles