Puttin' On The Ritz (arr. Roger Holmes): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Arranged by Roger Holmes
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00547378
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Description
Irving Berlin's tuneful standard was put back on the map with the classic scene from Mel Brook's movie Young Frankenstein. This clever arrangement alternates between a 2-beat feel and straight ahead swing, and features solo space for tenor sax, trumpet, and even a short solo for bass. Fun!
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00547378
More about this title
About the Arranger: Roger Holmes
Roger Holmes has built a reputation as a sophisticated arranger and composer for jazz ensembles, bringing both harmonic depth and accessibility to his scores. His arrangements balance musical substance with playability, making them reliable choices for directors who want their students engaged in genuinely interesting material rather than simplified versions of complex standards.
Why we love this
Holmes nails the comedic energy of the Young Frankenstein moment while keeping the arrangement musically honest. The shift between 2-beat and swing feels deliberately constructed rather than gimmicky, giving your ensemble a real interpretive challenge without requiring advanced technique.
What to expect
Infectious and playful. The melody is instantly recognizable, but Holmes' handling of the two feels gives the piece unexpected sophistication. There's genuine energy in this arrangement; it swings, it grooves, and it never feels like work.
Who it's for
Grade 3 jazz ensembles that have solid swing fundamentals and are ready to explore stylistic variety within a single tune. Directors looking for repertoire that entertains both players and audiences without sacrificing musical content will find this arrangement does exactly that.
How to get the most out of it
- Nail the contrast between feels. The 2-beat sections need crisp articulation and a lighter touch from the rhythm section; when you swing, commit fully to the pocket rather than straddling both grooves.
- Let the soloists breathe. Tenor sax, trumpet, and bass all get their moment; frame those solos with tasteful comping from the ensemble rather than filling every space with hits.
- Lean into the humor without losing musicality. The tune's inherent wit comes through cleanly when intonation is solid and rhythmic accuracy supports the band's ensemble blend.
How to use it
Perfect for a pops concert or a program that mixes standards with original compositions. This one works equally well as a concert opener (the humor gets the audience immediately) or as a showcase for your soloists in a more formal setting.
Skills your students will build
- Switching between 2-beat and swing feels with rhythmic accuracy
- Comping and section work that supports rather than overwhelms featured soloists
- Articulation and phrasing choices that convey style and character
- Listening and responding to harmonic changes across different groove contexts