Swing Thing: 3rd B-flat Trumpet

Story writes for real rehearsal rooms where not every player reads jazz fluently yet. The written-out solo and shout chorus remove the improvisation barrier while keeping the energy and swagger intact. At Grade 1 with a reasonable tempo and practical ranges, this lands exactly where young ensembles can execute it successfully in concert or festival.

A bright, propulsive swing that bounces without demanding complex rhythmic thinking. The tenor solo carries the melody with a modern edge, and the shout chorus builds to a satisfying climax that sends the ensemble home smiling.

New jazz ensembles, middle school groups getting their first taste of swing, and high school bands introducing younger players to big band literature. Anyone building a Grade 1 jazz program needs accessible material with real personality, and this delivers.

• Keep the swing feel relaxed at 120 BPM; rushing the eighth notes flattens the groove. Lock the rhythm section together first, then have the section leaders match their feel to that foundation.
• Balance the tenor sax solo so it speaks over the ensemble without dominating. The written part gives you control, so shape it as a feature moment, not background accompaniment.
• Attack the shout chorus with confidence. Clean articulation and rhythmic precision on the hits make the chart feel polished, even if this is early in the year.

Program this early in the concert season when you want an uplifting moment that also showcases young soloists without the pressure of improvisation. It pairs well before or after a standard ballad, giving the audience variety in texture and energy.

• Swing articulation and phrasing
• Section balance with featured soloists
• Reading and executing written jazz figures
• Rhythmic precision in shout chorus hits
• Ensemble blend across a full big band voicing