Play That Funky Music: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Victor López's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without requiring soloists, making it accessible for groups still developing their improvisation skills. The call-and-response section and steady funky groove keep students engaged while building their ability to lock into a pocket, and the lead trumpet range (written F-sharp on top) sits perfectly for developing lead players.

Irresistible. The arrangement captures the swaggering confidence of the original funk-pop hit, with a rhythm section that propels the ensemble forward and a melody section that locks in over a steadily groovy foundation. It's the kind of chart that makes students feel like actual musicians the moment it clicks into place.

Young jazz ensembles at the Grade 2 level who are building foundational ensemble skills and comfort with funk and rock grooves. This arrangement works well for groups with developing lead trumpet players and is ideal for musicians who respond well to familiar, popular material.

• Establish the groove in rehearsal before layering in the melodic and harmonic parts. Have the rhythm section play alone for several measures so the ensemble can hear and feel the pocket.
• Shape the call-and-response section with clear dynamic contrasts and articulation between the sections answering each other.
• Keep the tempo consistent and slightly behind the beat to maximize the funky feel; rushing will flatten the groove.
• Balance the lead trumpet so it sits slightly above the section without overpowering the ensemble's collective sound.

Program this as a high-energy moment in a concert featuring pop-influenced jazz repertoire, or use it as a springboard for students to understand the crossover between funk, rock, and jazz languages. It also serves as an excellent engagement tool for recruiting younger students to jazz ensemble by showing them music they already know and love.

• Locking into a steady funk groove and pocket playing
• Call-and-response section ensemble awareness and timing
• Articulation and phrasing in funk and rock idioms
• Lead trumpet register and range management
• Rhythmic precision in a syncopated ensemble context