Recorda me: E-flat Baritone Saxophone

Kris Berg's arrangement captures the propulsive drive of samba while maintaining the jazz sophistication you'd expect from Henderson's material. The written solos across the full section, combined with the challenging lead trumpet range and a sax soli that showcases your section's cohesion, give every player something meaningful to execute at this level.

From the opening, this chart radiates Brazilian warmth and jazz swing in equal measure. The samba groove sits steady beneath layers of written interplay, building momentum through the ensemble's collective voice before spotlight moments let individual sections breathe.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level (grades 11-12 or strong middle school programs) with solid section players and a lead trumpet capable of navigating the high range. Directors programming contests, festivals, or concerts will appreciate the combination of accessibility and genuine musical substance.

• Lock the rhythm section into the 170 BPM samba feel early in rehearsal; the energy of this chart depends entirely on groove clarity from drums, bass, and piano working as one unit.
• Balance the written-out solos carefully so they read as conversational exchanges rather than isolated statements; each saxophonist and brass player needs to listen across the ensemble.
• Approach the developing interlude as a structural moment where the arrangement shifts focus; use it to reset energy before the final push to the end.
• Test the lead trumpet's high passages (written B) in sectional rehearsals first, giving that player time to find secure intonation and confidence in the upper register without section pressure.

This works well as a mid-set energizer at concerts or as a competitive piece where the clear structure and defined solo sections give judges distinct moments to hear individual and sectional musicianship. The Latin feel also pairs naturally with straight-ahead jazz standards if you're programming a themed concert.

• Maintaining steady samba groove while executing jazz phrasing and swing feel simultaneously
• Reading and executing written-out solos with conversation and responsiveness across sections
• Balancing blend in sax soli without sacrificing individual voice clarity
• Navigating lead trumpet range to written B and managing intonation in the upper register
• Sectional independence within an ensemble context (interlude development)