The Best of Big and Easy, Volume 2: Baritone (Opt. 2nd Trombone) Book

These baritone charts sit in the sweet spot where players get real musical work without fighting their range. The optional 2nd trombone designation gives you flexibility to double the part or feature your baritone soloist, and the rhythm section writing (keyboard, electric bass, drums) creates a contemporary groove that energizes rehearsal and performance alike.

These arrangements capture the swagger and groove of their source material, from the defiant attitude of "Bad to the Bone" to the syncopated bounce of "Funkytown." Your baritone voice gets to be both a harmonic anchor and, at moments, the lead voice, giving you musicality that goes beyond simple accompaniment.

Baritone and 2nd trombone players in marching or show bands who want to tackle recognizable contemporary and classic pop tunes without sacrificing solid playing fundamentals. This collection works equally well for community ensembles, high school bands with limited rehearsal time, and groups performing at events where accessibility and fun factor higher than complexity.

• Anchor the low end by locking your articulation with the electric bass and drumset; the baritone voice carries much of the harmonic weight in these streamlined charts.
• Blend your tone with the optional 2nd trombone when both parts are voiced together, but sit slightly forward in the mix when you're playing the solo line.
• Pay attention to the syncopated rhythm figures; many of these pop standards rely on tight rhythmic unison with the drums to land the groove correctly.
• Use the keyboard part as your harmonic reference when learning the charts; Story often uses contemporary voicings that may look unfamiliar on first read but make sense once you hear how they fit the original tune.

Build a concert or show set around these familiar titles; audiences respond immediately to tunes they know and love. The Grade 2 level and modest rehearsal demands make this collection ideal for early-season performances, community events, or programs where you want maximum impact without compromising other repertoire work. Use it to reward players with genuinely fun music while maintaining ensemble cohesion.

• Playing syncopated rhythmic figures accurately with rhythm section ensemble
• Balancing between harmonic and melodic roles within the same piece
• Reading and executing contemporary pop voicings in brass writing
• Maintaining rhythmic precision and groove in ensemble contexts
• Adapting tone and articulation style to different tune styles (blues, funk, novelty themes)