There You Go Again: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

This is the kind of chart that reminds you why you chose to direct a jazz ensemble. Williams constructs the piece with clear stakes: the groove is solid and swinging at 120 BPM, the section writing is idiomatic without being overwrought, and the architecture moves from solo space into a sax soli and a shout chorus that your best players will want to nail. It rewards both precision and personality, and it sounds genuinely impressive in performance.

Sophisticated, swinging, and thoroughly professional. The tune settles into a confident groove immediately, with enough melodic interest to stay memorable even after multiple hearings. The shout chorus builds to a moment of real power, and the overall package feels like something a working big band would proudly claim as part of its book.

This score and parts set is designed for experienced jazz ensemble directors and players working at the high school advanced level or collegiate setting. The Grade 6 rating reflects the musicianship and technical command needed to execute Williams's voicings and navigate the solo sections with confidence.

• Lock the 120 BPM pocket early in rehearsal by having the rhythm section play through the tune without melody instruments, establishing the swagger of the swing feel before anyone else comes in.
• Shape the sax section soli with dynamics; resist the urge to let it sit at one volume. The section sounds bigger and more cohesive when the phrase contours are clearly visible.
• Balance solo space carefully so that the spotlight doesn't overwhelm the soloist but still holds the ensemble's attention. Let the accompaniment breathe around whoever takes the feature.
• Work the shout chorus as a unit; this is where the full instrumentation counts. Make sure the brass has the cutoffs locked and the ensemble response feels like one voice.

This works well as a headliner on a concert or festival performance, particularly if you're programming it alongside other Williams charts or contemporary jazz standards. It also makes a strong showcase piece for your jazz ensemble's capabilities if you're performing at adjudications, community events, or school assemblies where you want to leave a strong impression.

• Executing a confident swing feel at a professional tempo (120 BPM)
• Balancing ensemble unity with solo improvisation space
• Sectional blend and precision in sax soli writing
• Building and shaping phrase contours within jazz ensemble voicings
• Responding as an accompaniment section to featured soloists