That's How We Roll: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

This shuffle has the kind of immediately memorable melodic hooks and infectious groove that audiences recognize on first listen, then leave humming. Goodwin's writing for big band is always tight and purposeful; he knows how to balance ensemble sections with genuine solo opportunities, and this chart delivers exactly that across five soloists. Programming it signals confidence in your ensemble's ability to execute professional-level swing and intonation at a competitive venue.

A groove that feels immediately contemporary yet rooted in classic big band shuffle language. The bouncy energy and memorable hooks create instant audience connection, while the solo spaces allow individual voices to shine within a propulsive, tightly orchestrated ensemble sound.

Advanced jazz ensembles and college jazz bands ready to tackle professional-level arrangement and solo demands. The Grade 6 difficulty and contest-winning pedigree make it ideal for ensembles preparing for festival competition or concert performances where technical execution and stylistic authenticity matter.

• Establish the shuffle feel with the rhythm section before tackling melody entries; the groove is the foundation everything else sits on.
• Balance the lead trumpet's range carefully, especially the written high F and final G, so those moments land as climactic rather than strained.
• Feature the percussion front and center during bongo and conga passages to showcase the Latin textures integral to the chart's character.
• Work the five solos methodically with individual players, making sure each voice (alto, tenor, bari, trumpet, trombone) understands the harmonic framework and has room to breathe.

Position this as a centerpiece in a jazz-focused concert or festival set where contemporary big band writing is expected to hold its own alongside standards. It works equally well as a opening number that energizes the room or as the final piece that sends the audience out smiling, particularly if your ensemble has soloists ready to take full advantage of the five featured voices.

• Shuffle feel and swing articulation in a contemporary big band context
• Solo construction and harmonic navigation across five different instruments and ranges
• Precision ensemble playing at professional tempo and dynamics
• Integration of percussion color (bongos and conga) into jazz ensemble texture
• Lead trumpet range extension (written through high F) with control and musicality