Steampunk: 2nd B-flat Tenor Saxophone

Steampunk proves that a Grade 3.5 big band chart can deliver genuine excitement without sacrificing musicianship. The writing puts your guitarist front and center with a suggested solo and engaging ensemble support, making this an ideal vehicle for a player who doesn't always get the spotlight in a traditional big band setting. At 5 minutes 43 seconds, it's long enough to be substantial but short enough to fit almost any concert, and it works equally well in a festival or concert hall context.

Steampunk splits the difference between heavy metal attitude and big band tradition, driven by rock-solid groove and featuring your guitarist as the focal point. The writing channels the raw energy of rock without sacrificing jazz sophistication, delivering the kind of piece that makes audiences lean forward and band members remember why they love playing together.

Jazz ensemble directors who want to program a contemporary, high-energy chart that grabs audiences while remaining accessible for Grade 3.5 players. If you have a strong guitarist, this is their moment to lead the band. It's equally suited to ensembles looking for contest material or a standout concert feature.

• Let your lead trumpet player know the range tops out at written G; this accessibility means the section can focus on blend and ensemble sound rather than struggling with extreme highs.
• If your guitarist needs the support, use the provided solo suggestion as a starting point, but encourage them to develop their own voice over the changes; a confident soloist will make this chart shine.
• Balance the rhythm section carefully so the groove locks in without overwhelming the band; the heavy rock feel depends on pocket, not volume.
• The recorded timing (5:43) gives you a reference, but don't feel bound to it; this tune can breathe differently depending on how your ensemble interprets the groove.

Program this as a midsection or closer on a concert; its energy and relative brevity make it ideal for resetting audience attention between longer works. It also shines in a jazz festival setting where it can stand toe-to-toe with other contemporary charts. Consider pairing it with a blues or swing number to frame it within a cohesive set.

• Rock and heavy metal groove feel in a jazz ensemble context
• Comping and ensemble support for a featured soloist
• Articulation and rhythmic precision in syncopated big band writing
• Lead trumpet range management (written notes up to G)
• Ensemble blend and dynamic control in a high-energy setting