Sing Sang Sung: Quad-Toms

Goodwin's original chart from Swingin' for the Fences carries the swagger and precision of a Grammy-nominated recording, and Baratta's adaptation preserves that energy while making it playable in marching format. The 1:30 duration fits perfectly into a competitive or exhibition show without demanding excessive rehearsal time. This is the kind of contemporary jazz writing that reminds students why they joined the band in the first place.

Infectious and propulsive, with the kind of big band groove that pulls the whole ensemble along. Goodwin's writing balances moments of unison precision with clever counterpoint, making it exciting to listen to and satisfying to play.

Advanced marching bands (Grade 4) with solid jazz vocabulary and strong section leadership. This chart rewards precision and maturity; it's not a learning tool for swing fundamentals, but rather a vehicle for experienced players to execute sophisticated contemporary jazz arranging.

• Lock the swing feel early. The chart lives in the space between straight eighth notes and full triplet swing; establish that pocket in sectionals before full ensemble rehearsals.
• Balance the brass section carefully. With this much brass writing, the woodwinds can disappear quickly; push the reeds into the mix during unison passages.
• Treat the solos as conversations, not showpieces. Even when improvisation isn't involved, the melodic lines should sound conversational and relaxed rather than stiff or overly precise.
• Use recorded reference material from the original Big Phat Band version to let your students hear the grooves they're aiming for.

Schedule this as a closer or centerpiece in a show that emphasizes jazz and contemporary music. It pairs well alongside other Goodwin material or modern big band charts, and its length makes it ideal for either a full-production show or a jazz-focused exhibition event.

• Swing eighth-note interpretation and pocket
• Section independence within a complex harmonic framework
• Balanced voicing across brass and woodwind combinations
• Dynamic contrast in both scored passages and notated solo sections
• Reading in multiple keys and time-signature clarity