Sucker (arr. Paul Murtha): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by Jonas Brothers / Arranged by Paul Murtha
Grade: 2
Item: 35-PK00456819
$40.00
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Description
The Jonas Brothers are back on top of the charts, and here's a terrific easy arrangement of their most recent hit featuring a driving uptempo rock feel and catchy riffs. The flexible solo section features easy changes, and each part includes a sample written solo and scales. Perfect for beginning improvisers.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00456819
More about this title
About the Artist: Jonas Brothers
The Jonas Brothers emerged as pop phenomena in the late 2000s, building a devoted fanbase through infectious melodies, tight harmonies, and music that resonates across generations. Their return to recording and touring has reintroduced their catalog to both longtime listeners and new audiences, making their recent hits ideal repertoire for teaching contemporary arranging and performance in ensemble settings.
Why we love this
Paul Murtha's arrangement captures what makes this song stick in your head while keeping the ensemble writing accessible. The driving rock feel and straightforward harmonic language mean your students stay engaged with the music rather than wrestling with complexity, and the built-in solo section with written examples gives improvisers a real starting point instead of throwing them into the deep end.
What to expect
Upbeat and propulsive, with the kind of infectious energy that makes students want to replay their parts at home. The pop-rock sensibility feels familiar and fun while the jazz trio and ensemble framework keeps it musically substantial and rewarding to perform.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles working at the early intermediate level, particularly groups that include developing improvisers who benefit from scaffolded soloing opportunities. Teachers seeking contemporary repertoire that connects with students' listening habits while building legitimate ensemble and improv skills will find this a natural fit.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the eighth-note feel crisp and even throughout; the groove relies on that consistent subdivision more than strict tempo adherence.
- Let the ensemble lock onto the riff sections early in rehearsal. These catchy lines are your foundation for maintaining energy across the piece.
- Work the solo section with individual students first before running it full ensemble. The written examples show the range of what's possible, but your soloists need permission to find their own voice within those changes.
- Balance the rock feel with jazz phrasing. This isn't a rock band playing jazz; it's a jazz ensemble with a pop song's sensibility.
How to use it
This works beautifully as a concert opener or as part of a set mixing jazz standards with contemporary pop arrangements. It also serves as an effective teaching tool mid-rehearsal season when you want to maintain momentum while introducing improvisation concepts without overwhelming inexperienced soloists.
Skills your students will build
- Improvising over basic chord changes with provided scales as reference
- Playing consistent eighth-note rock grooves in a jazz context
- Reading and executing written solo examples
- Balancing ensemble precision with stylistic phrasing in uptempo settings
- Listening and responding to ensemble texture in contemporary pop arrangements