Sack of Woe: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

$8.00 USD

Sack of Woe: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Name: Sack of Woe: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-36034S
Price: 8.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Julian Adderley / arr. Mike Kamuf

Grade: 2 (Medium Easy)

Item: 00-36034S

$8.00

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This great tune by Cannonball Adderley combines a soulful straight-eighth groove with a swing feel at a tempo anywhere from 138 to 160 BPM. Features include written solos for alto 1 and trumpet 2, lead trumpet range to written G, well-notated rhythm section parts, and a killer shout chorus. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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Series: Young Jazz Ensemble

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 16

UPC: 038081415031

SKU: 00-36034S

More about this title

About the Composer: Julian Adderley

Julian "Cannonball" Adderley (1928-1975) was a cornerstone of hard bop and a bandleader whose warm, bluesy alto saxophone sound defined the soul-jazz movement of the 1960s. His compositions became standards in the jazz repertoire, known for their accessibility, groove-oriented melodies, and infectious swing that appealed to both mainstream and serious jazz audiences.

Adderley's writing emphasized ensemble interplay and clear harmonic structures, making his pieces natural choices for education settings. His work demonstrates how functional jazz writing can maintain artistic integrity while remaining playable by developing musicians.

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Why we love this

Kamuf's arrangement captures Adderley's essential groove without oversimplifying the compositional voice. The written solos for alto and trumpet give students concrete models to study, while the balance between ensemble sections and individual voices keeps everyone engaged throughout the 16 pages.

What to expect

A soulful, groove-centered tune that balances discipline with fun. The straight-eighth foundation gives younger players a secure footing while the swing overlay and written solos hint at the sophistication waiting in deeper jazz repertoire. The shout chorus lands like a confident exclamation point.

Who it's for

Jazz ensemble directors working with developing players who are ready for swing fundamentals and small-group solo work. The Grade 2 difficulty sits comfortably after students have covered basic jazz language, and the 16-page length makes it workable for rehearsal-limited programs.

How to get the most out of it

Settle the straight-eighth feel before adding swing. Run the rhythm section through the groove unaccompanied first to lock the pocket, then bring in horns section by section.
The shout chorus needs definition and punch. Mark dynamics carefully with the trumpet section so the lead voice cuts through without sounding shrill; this is where solid intonation across the brass pays off.
Treat the written solos as teaching material. Have students analyze the alto and trumpet solos in rehearsal to understand phrasing, note choice, and how to navigate the changes.
Tempo flexibility between 138-160 BPM lets you shape the piece to your ensemble's maturity. Start slower to build comfort with the straight-eight/swing hybrid, then find your sweet spot once the rhythm section locks in.

How to use it

Program this for jazz festival contests where ensemble musicianship and clean execution matter more than extreme technical demands. It also works beautifully as a centerpiece in a jazz concert that mixes standards with contemporary writing, offering audiences a recognizable Adderley sound without requiring virtuoso lead trumpet range.