Road Song: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

$48.00 USD

Road Song: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Road Song: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-36049
Price: 48.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Wes Montgomery / arr. Terry White

Grade: 3 (Medium)

Item: 00-36049

$48.00

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At 138 BPM, alto and trumpet state the melody's expansion and development. This chart has written alto and trumpet or tenor and trombone solos, then a cool sax soli, followed by a modulation and a big ensemble chorus to end with a flourish. Lead trumpet range is to written A above the staff.

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Series: Jazz Band Series

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 98

UPC: 038081415086

SKU: 00-36049

More about this title

About the Composer: Wes Montgomery

Wes Montgomery (1923-1968) was a self-taught guitarist who became one of jazz's most influential voices. Working primarily in Indianapolis before his wider recognition, Montgomery developed a distinctive approach to improvisation and a warm, singing tone that made him equally comfortable in small group settings and big band arrangements. His compositions and interpretations bridged soul jazz and hard bop, making his work accessible to both devoted jazz musicians and general audiences.

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Why we love this

Terry White's arrangement captures the swagger and melodic clarity that made Montgomery's music so singable, even in an ensemble context. The strategic placement of solo features (alto and trumpet or tenor and trombone) gives multiple voices their moment while the sax soli and final big ensemble chorus reward tight section work and confident execution. At Grade 3, this sits in that sweet spot where ensembles can sound polished and professional without excessive technical demand.

What to expect

Warm and buoyant. The melody unfolds with the relaxed sophistication of a seasoned bandstand conversation. Soloists get space to breathe while the ensemble stays engaged, building momentum into a final chorus that feels earned rather than imposed.

Who it's for

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level looking for a chart with authentic voice and genuine solo opportunities. Directors seeking material that builds section confidence while featuring individual players will find this rewarding; it demands clean ensemble playing but doesn't require virtuosic chops from every chair.

How to get the most out of it

Lock the tempo at 138 BPM during rhythm section rehearsals before sectionals; this groove drives the whole chart and small fluctuations will expose the soloists.
Shade the melody statement during the alto and trumpet opening so both voices sit equally; this is your hook and it needs to feel inevitable.
Balance the sax soli carefully; five saxophones need disciplined dynamic control to stay cohesive without sounding muddy or overbearing.
Address the lead trumpet's high passages (up to written A) early in rehearsal; confirm the part is comfortable for your soloist and support them with steady ensemble work around those moments.

How to use it

Pair this with other Montgomery-influenced standards or straight-ahead swing tunes to create a set that feels cohesive and swinging. It works especially well mid-program where the audience is settled and the ensemble has found its groove, or as a featured spot for your soloists in a concert emphasizing jazz history and composition.