The Fast Lane: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Fraley understands what beginning jazz ensembles actually need: accessible rhythmic writing that doesn't sacrifice harmonic interest. The built-in flexibility of the solo section means you can adapt the chart to fit your band's strengths in any given year, whether you have a standout tenor or a trio of capable trumpet soloists.

Propulsive and contemporary. The up-tempo swing groove moves with purpose while the harmonies feel modern and slightly edgy, never settling into safe, predictable changes. It's the sound of a band that knows how to play it cool.

Directors of developing jazz ensembles who want to program a genuine swing chart without excessive technical demands. This works equally well for high school beginning bands, college non-majors jazz ensembles, and advanced middle school programs ready to explore jazz repertoire.

• Keep the ensemble time locked in during the head by emphasizing the backbeat in rhythm section rehearsals; the contemporary harmonies will shine only if the groove sits solidly underneath.
• Encourage soloists to listen to the full rhythm section, not just the drums. The piano voicings in this chart are modern enough that they'll guide harmonic choices without prescribing every note.
• Balance the brass ensemble sound during the hard-driving sections by checking that your lead trumpet isn't overshadowing the lower voices; this chart rewards a blended tone more than a cutting one.
• Use the recorded accompaniment (if available separately) for sectional rehearsals so soloists can practice their parts while you focus on tightening ensemble articulation.

Program this as an opener or closer to a jazz concert to establish energy and contemporary taste. It pairs well alongside a ballad or slower blues number to show your ensemble's range, and the flexible solo format lets you highlight individual players without requiring an entire separate feature chart.

• Swing rhythm and feel (walking bass, comping patterns)
• Reading unison rhythms in the ensemble passages
• Understanding contemporary jazz harmonies through listening and performance
• Solo improvisation over changes (for featured soloists)
• Listening to and supporting ensemble members during solo sections