Put It Where You Want It (arr. Mike Tomaro): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Mike Tomaro captures the groove and swagger of the original while giving student ensemble musicians genuine parts to play. The arrangement respects the source material's funk foundation but opens up space for young players to feel the pocket without overwhelming them with complexity.

Infectious and propulsive. The arrangement keeps the funky, rhythmic swagger of early 1970s fusion while remaining grounded enough for Grade 4 ensembles to execute effectively. Energy builds naturally through the piece, and the soloistic moments feel earned rather than imposed.

Jazz ensemble directors seeking accessible fusion material that engages students without requiring advanced harmonic reading or extreme technical demands. This works for concert programming, festivals, or contests where contemporary grooves alongside traditional repertoire demonstrate range.

• Lock the rhythm section into the pocket first. The bass and drums set the foundation; once they're locked, horns and melody instruments will feel where to sit in the beat.
• Balance the syncopated lines between sections carefully. Tomaro's writing layers rhythmic figures that need clarity without losing the cohesive groove.
• Listen to the original recording to absorb the era's approach to time. This helps students understand the difference between reading the dots and feeling the intent behind them.

Place this in a concert set where you want to shift the energy and show audiences what modern jazz ensemble music sounds like. The contemporary feel pairs well with classic swing charts, creating a program that spans eras while maintaining musical sophistication.

• Executing syncopated rhythms in ensemble context
• Balancing groove-oriented playing with precise articulation
• Understanding jazz fusion as a historical and stylistic bridge
• Reading contemporary jazz notation and phrasing marks
• Responding to rhythmic cues from the rhythm section