Smiles and Smiles to Go: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
Composed by Larry Carlton / arr. Victor López
Grade: 2 (Medium Easy)
Item: 00-PK-0006594
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Description
An easy-going chart, with a relaxed straight-eighth groove at about 116 BPM, "Smiles and Smiles to Go" features an alto solo with a suggested written solo, trumpet 1 range up to G on top of the staff, and a unison interlude section. Includes all of the usual optional parts plus flute, clarinet, and vibes. (3:37)
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Additional Details
Series:
Young Jazz Ensemble
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
90
SKU:
00-PK-0006594
More about this title
About the Composer: Larry Carlton
Larry Carlton is a highly respected guitarist, composer, and arranger whose career spans studio work, touring, and film scoring. His compositions reflect a deep understanding of jazz vocabulary and contemporary music idioms, making him a natural voice for jazz education repertoire.
Why we love this
Victor López's arrangement hits the sweet spot for young ensembles: the straight-eighth groove at 116 BPM is infectious without demanding virtuosic tempo flexibility, and the alto solo sits comfortably for developing soloists while the written solo ensures accessibility. The unison interlude creates a moment of ensemble cohesion that young players find rewarding, and the 3:37 runtime fits perfectly into rehearsal time and concert programming.
What to expect
Relaxed and grooving. The straight-eighth feel invites players to settle into a steady pocket while the alto solo floats on top with quiet confidence. It's the musical equivalent of a Friday afternoon: purposeful but never tense, with enough space for individual voices to breathe.
Who it's for
Grade 2 (Medium Easy) jazz ensembles with developing soloists and rhythm sections ready to explore straight-eighth swing. This works for middle school through early high school ensembles seeking accessible, professionally written repertoire with real jazz character.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the pocket early. The groove at 116 BPM should feel relaxed, not rushed; have the rhythm section lock the feel before adding the front line.
- Give the alto soloist permission to phrase behind the beat. The suggested written solo shows one approach, but exploring rubato and space here develops interpretive confidence.
- Balance vibes and piano in the texture. Vibes can easily dominate, so check levels during full-ensemble passages to keep the sound transparent.
- Prepare the unison section as a sectional moment. Everyone plays together, so rhythmic precision matters here more than in the solo sections; lock this down early in rehearsal.
How to use it
Pair this with other Grade 2 charts to build a full jazz concert set, or use it as a closing number on a mixed concert where you want to leave the audience in a good mood. The moderate length and accessible difficulty make it an ideal vehicle for introducing soloists or spotlighting your alto section.
Skills your students will build
- Straight-eighth groove interpretation and pocket playing
- Solo phrasing and space management in jazz context
- Unison section balance and rhythmic cohesion
- Listening to and supporting a featured soloist
- Jazz articulation and tone on their primary instrument