Soul Sacrifice: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

This arrangement captures the visceral energy of the original without requiring your ensemble to be expert improvisers. Michael Philip Mossman has written hot, syncopated figures that sit comfortably in a school jazz band while keeping the percussionists engaged and featured; most directors find that their drummers and congueros respond with genuine enthusiasm to material this rhythmically interesting.

The piece moves with a simmering Latin pulse underneath layers of brass punctuation and saxophone color. It never loses its connection to the groove, even when the soloists step forward; the overall effect is energetic without being frantic, accessible without feeling watered down.

Jazz ensemble directors at the 4th grade level who want repertoire with genuine cultural weight and a built-in appeal to their students. This works for groups with a competent rhythm section and at least one strong saxophonist; percussion and guitar soloists will feel celebrated rather than stretched beyond their ability.

• Lock the conga and drumset parts together before full ensemble rehearsal. The groove depends on their conversation, not on the horns driving the tempo.
• Feature whoever takes the alto sax solo with a clear sound. The part sits in a range that rewards good fundamental tone and articulation.
• Let the rhythm section breathe during the guitar solo. Resist the urge to fill space; the written accompaniment is lean and intentional.
• Punch the brass figures with precision. These moments define the arrangement's energy, so agreement on articulation and dynamics matters more than volume.

Program this at a pops concert or in the second half of a mixed jazz concert, after your ensemble has warmed up and the audience is ready to move. It pairs well with other fusion or Latin jazz selections and creates a natural bridge between straight-ahead jazz standards and contemporary repertoire.

• Executing syncopated rhythmic figures in ensemble context
• Reading and performing Latin jazz grooves with accurate clave phrasing
• Supporting and accompanying featured soloists with locked rhythm section parts
• Articulating punchy brass figures with unified style and attack
• Balancing written melody and rhythm against improvised solo material