Secret Love: String Bass

Dave Wolpe's arrangement puts the trombone section front and center without sacrificing ensemble cohesion. The written-out solos across all four bone parts give every trombonist a chance to shine, while the section work and full ensemble passages keep the whole band engaged and sounding unified.

Classic swing with warmth and charm. The melody sits naturally in the trombone range, and Wolpe's voicings let the bone section sing while the ensemble parts bounce with that easy, rolling feel that makes audiences smile. There's sophistication here without pretension.

Jazz ensemble directors working with Grade 3 players who have a solid trombone section and want a vehicle that showcases that strength. Lead trumpet and lead trombone players need comfortable facility in the upper register, but the rest of the ensemble parts are well-balanced for developing players.

• Balance the trombone solo sections carefully against the rhythm section so the written lines remain clear and present; these solos are the feature.
• Ensure the lead trumpet player is comfortable at written B above the staff before finalizing the rehearsal schedule; plan extra sectional time if needed.
• Let the lead bone player know the part sits up to high B-flat and schedule time to build range if that's a stretch for your current lead.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to lock the rhythm section's pocket before bringing in the horns, then layer the ensemble parts once the foundation is solid.

Program this as a feature for a jazz concert, sandwiching it between a high-energy opener and a closing number to give the audience a moment to settle into the swing feel. It's also an excellent piece for a student jazz recital or a community concert where you want something recognizable and crowd-pleasing that also demonstrates your ensemble's musicianship.

• Reading and executing written solo lines within a full ensemble context
• Balancing section work with featured solo passages
• Intonation and voicing in the upper register (lead trumpet and lead trombone)
• Swing feel and phrasing across the full ensemble
• Listening to the rhythm section while playing written parts