Struttin' with Some Barbecue: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Stitzel's arrangement captures the essence of Armstrong's legacy while keeping the chart accessible and genuinely enjoyable to play. The blend of authentic jazz vocabulary with a swing feel that ensemble players can lock into makes this an ideal entry point for students who are curious about jazz history but might feel intimidated by more complex harmonic territory.

Warm and slightly nostalgic, with just enough swagger to keep things fun. The arrangement honors Armstrong's roots in New Orleans while steering toward the clarity and punch of swing era jazz. You'll feel the passage of time in the harmony and melody, a musical reflection of how jazz itself evolved from ragtime influences into a more refined, organized sound.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who are building foundational knowledge of jazz standards and history. This works equally well for groups just beginning to explore improvisation or those seeking repertoire that balances educational value with the pure joy of playing a beloved tune.

• Balance the feel between the old-time jazz inflections and the straight-ahead swing sections; these stylistic shifts should feel natural, not jarring. Listen to Armstrong's original to hear how he navigates between eras.
• Give your soloists room to breathe and phrase conversationally, especially over the melody sections. This tune rewards players who think like singers, not just technicians.
• Let the rhythm section establish the groove early. A locked-in walking bass and steady ride cymbal will anchor the ensemble and free the horns to focus on tone and articulation.

Place this early in a jazz education concert or workshop, where it can serve as a teaching moment about early jazz pioneers. Pair it with a more modern chart or a ballad to show how jazz vocabulary evolved. It also works beautifully as a closing number on a lighter program, since audiences recognize the melody and the performance will land with warmth and accessibility.

• Swing articulation and phrasing within early jazz contexts
• Balancing composed sections with improvisation opportunities
• Reading and executing jazz notation conventions
• Listening to and adapting to stylistic shifts within a single piece
• Understanding the relationship between historical jazz figures and modern ensemble playing