Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Rivello's arrangement captures the essence of this standard while delivering exactly what a Grade 3 ensemble needs: accessible parts that still demand musicianship, clear solo vehicles that invite improvisation without overwhelming soloists, and genuine energy that keeps both performers and audiences engaged. The Latin and swing blend gives your program distinctive flavor without requiring specialized instrumentation.

The arrangement swings hard while maintaining the delicate lyricism the tune demands. You'll hear the Latin propulsion underneath, bright horn colors trading lines, and moments where the ensemble steps back to let the soloists breathe. It's music that feels both respectful of the standard and unmistakably modern.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level looking for a standard reimagined with real swing and Latin heat. Alto sax and trombone soloists get featured moments whether they improvise or lean on the written material. Directors seeking repertoire that challenges students without overwhelming them will find this accessible and rewarding.

• Establish the Latin feel early in sectionals. The rhythm section drives this chart, so lock the piano and bass into the clave pattern before bringing in horns.
• Explore the written solos first. Having those options helps soloists understand the harmonic map before attempting ad lib passages, especially valuable for players less experienced in jazz contexts.
• Balance the lead trumpet's high register against the ensemble. The written B-flat passages need clarity and projection, but shouldn't overshadow the fullness of the big band sound underneath.
• Shape the dynamics across the full arc. This arrangement cooks best when there's genuine contrast between the Latin sections and swing passages, creating momentum that builds rather than plateaus.

Plant this in a jazz-focused concert where it can anchor a set of standards alongside contemporary jazz tunes. It also works beautifully as the closer to a mixed concert program, offering enough accessibility for general audiences while showcasing your ensemble's technical and stylistic range. The accessible Grade 3 level makes it an excellent choice for winter concerts or spring assessments.

• Latin feel and clave rhythm, particularly in rhythm section parts
• Reading and executing written jazz solos with idiomatic phrasing and articulation
• Navigating between written and ad lib passages for improvisers
• Ensemble balance and blend in a jazz context, especially supporting solo passages
• Lead playing with secure intonation in the extended range (written B-flat above staff)