Secret Love: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Dave Wolpe has written a chart that actually respects the trombone section instead of relegating it to background harmony. Four distinct solo sections across the trombone parts mean every player gets to be heard, and the section work is substantial enough to build confidence in younger ensembles. The high range demands (lead bone to B-flat, lead trumpet to written B) push without punishing, making this a genuine showcase rather than a vanity piece.

Sophisticated and swinging. The melody moves with the easiness of a classic pop standard, but Wolpe's arrangement adds harmonic color and rhythmic texture that keep it engaging for players and listeners. There's enough ensemble writing to feel orchestrated without losing the intimacy of the melodic line.

Jazz ensemble directors who have strong trombonists and want to feature them without sacrificing musical substance. This chart works for ensembles with solid fundamentals and a trombone section that can handle high range and rhythmic independence.

• Establish the trombone lead's articulation style early in rehearsal. Consistency across the section will make the written solos read cleanly and keep the ensemble's rhythm section locked in.
• Balance the four solo trombone lines carefully. Since each player carries melodic responsibility, they need enough space to project without the rhythm section drowning them out.
• Shape the ensemble passages by watching the lead voices. The trombones carry the melody in many spots, so their phrasing will determine the overall shape of those sections.
• Check intonation in the high register during sectionals. The written range requires precision, especially in the lead trumpet part, and small intervals in that register can sound rough if not centered.

Program this after a ballad or feature it as a midset or closing number. The upbeat swing feel and trombone showcase make it ideal for concert programs that want to highlight section strength while keeping the audience's energy high. It also works well as a contest or jazz festival selection.

• Reading lead lines and section parts in swing time
• Soloing over jazz changes with written passages as guides
• Balancing melodic projection with ensemble blend
• Playing with confidence in high registers (lead bone, lead trumpet)
• Interpreting articulation and phrasing in jazz context