'S Wonderful: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Ralph Ford's arrangement captures the swing and charm of this Gershwin classic while keeping the ensemble writing lean and rewarding at Grade 2. The structure moves logically from section spotlights (trombone, brass, saxes) into full ensemble moments, giving students clear roles to play and something satisfying to build toward. Most importantly, it sounds like a real jazz tune, not a reductive march-band version of one.

Pure energy and joy from the opening trombone call. The tune moves through moments of spotlight and conversation before the whole band kicks in with the kind of exuberance that makes audiences smile. There's a lightness to it, an invitation to dance, without a trace of condescension.

Jazz ensemble directors running Grade 2 groups who need repertoire that teaches swing style, section balance, and ensemble cohesion without overwhelming younger musicians. Students at this level gain genuine experience with jazz vocabulary, solo trading, and the satisfaction of playing a recognizable standard.

• Nail the trombone intro with air and forward motion; this sets the groove for everything that follows, so don't let it shuffle or drag.
• Balance the sax soli carefully in the second section so each voice projects without the section drowning out the soloists.
• Use the written solos as the baseline first, then work toward cleaned-up ad-lib versions once the ensemble is secure; this builds improvisational confidence gradually.
• Push through the tutti section with unified articulation and bright tone; the shout chorus depends on the whole band arriving with the same energy.

Program this as a concert opener or mid-set mood lifter; it works beautifully alongside other Gershwin-era swing tunes and fits naturally into a program that mixes standards with original charts. It's also an excellent teaching tool in January or February when ensembles are ready to dig into swing style and section roles.

• Swing eighth-note articulation and rhythm
• Jazz ensemble balance and blend across sections
• Reading and executing ad-lib or written solo passages
• Recognizing harmonic movement in jazz standards
• Ensemble coordination during section spotlights and full-band writing