Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise: B-flat Tenor Saxophone

Rivello writes with genuine joy in the idiom, and this arrangement proves it. The Latin-swing hybrid keeps ensemble energy high while the written solos for alto sax and trombone (with ad lib options) give your section leaders real material to sink their teeth into, and the lead trumpet voicing demands strong high-register players without becoming gratuitous.

Bright and propulsive, shifting between the warmth of a slow Latin groove and the snap of a swing shout section. The standard's inherent lyricism comes through, but Rivello's charts reimagine it with contemporary rhythmic energy and ensemble color.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level with a decent lead trumpet player and section soloists ready to carry melody and solo passages. This works equally well for high school or college jazz bands seeking material that's musically engaging without excessive complexity.

• Balance the Latin and swing sections carefully; the groove depends on your rhythm section locking into the feel rather than racing. Use the recorded accompaniment if available to establish the pocket.
• Feature your soloists prominently in rehearsal so they own their parts before deciding whether to read written passages or improvise. Rivello's voicings support either approach.
• Watch the lead trumpet range closely during sectionals; the written B-flat above the staff is high but playable at this grade level. Secure intonation matters more than pushing volume.
• Let the optional percussion part enhance rather than clutter. A good drummer and one percussionist (vibraphone or Latin percussion) typically serve the arrangement better than overloading the section.

Program this as an anchor piece in a jazz concert setlist, pairing it with a ballad or blues to show the band's range. It works well mid-set when the audience and ensemble are both warmed up and ready for something with edge.

• Navigating Latin feels (clave, montuno, cross-rhythms) alongside swing phrasing
• Reading and executing ensemble hits with precision while maintaining groove integrity
• Balancing written solo passages with improvisation using chords and form
• Lead trumpet high-register control and intonation above the staff
• Listening to and supporting soloists while maintaining ensemble cohesion