September (Key: C): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Mark Taylor's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without losing the sophistication that makes this tune work at every skill level. A vocal soloist front and center gives your ensemble a featured moment while keeping the horn section fully engaged; nobody's just comping here. This is the kind of straight-ahead funk that reminds students why they wanted to play jazz in the first place.

Propulsive and joyful. The arrangement sits in that sweet spot where the funk groove is instantly recognizable but the ensemble writing keeps things intricate enough to hold musicians' attention. From downbeat to final hit, it maintains the kind of forward momentum that gets audiences on their feet.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who want a piece with instant appeal and genuine musicality. This works equally well for a vocal-centered jazz program or a traditional big band setup looking to add energy to a set.

• Lock the sixteenth-note hi-hat and kick drum pattern early in sectionals. This rhythmic pocket is the engine that makes the whole arrangement groove.
• Have your vocalist and rhythm section rehearse separately first. Once that relationship is solid, layer in the horns to create the full texture.
• Balance the horn section so the melody voice (likely trumpet or alto) sits just above the harmonic voices. The funkiness depends on hearing all three layers.
• Push for articulation clarity on the syncopated hits. Tight, uniform tonguing on ensemble figures makes the arrangement snap.

Drop this into a jazz concert as a second-half opener, especially if you're programming a mix of standards and popular repertoire. It also works beautifully as a spring concert closer when you want to send the audience home smiling.

• Syncopated rhythm reading and execution in funk context
• Sectional balance within a three-part horn texture
• Ensemble articulation and phrasing on syncopated figures
• Accompanying and supporting a featured vocal soloist
• Understanding groove-based time feel versus straight jazz swing