This Can't Be Love: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Ragsdale's arrangement strips this Rodgers standard down to its essential groove and lets the trombones drive the sound, which gives the section a rare moment in the spotlight. The samba feel and moderate tempo make it accessible for Grade 3.5 ensembles without sacrificing the sophistication of the original melody and harmony.

Bright, driving, and rhythmically alive. The samba feel keeps the energy forward while the trombones deliver the melody with warmth and presence. It's the kind of arrangement that makes the whole band feel the groove together.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level looking for a standard that sits comfortably between accessibility and sophistication. Directors preparing for contests or festivals will appreciate the clear structure and writing that lets soloists shine without overwhelming the ensemble.

• Lock the samba rhythm in the rhythm section early in rehearsal. The percussion and bass need to establish the pulse before the front line adds complexity.
• Work the trombone solos separately from full ensemble. Both suggested solos benefit from independence before they're layered back into the arrangement.
• Bring out the lead trumpet's high passages (to written A) with brightness but without pushing the dynamics too far; let the samba energy carry the weight.
• Use the recorded accompaniment to find the pocket at tempo. 190, 200 BPM can feel unstable in early rehearsals if the ensemble hasn't internalized the groove.

This works especially well paired with other Rodgers arrangements or as a change-of-pace selection in a jazz concert. Its accessibility makes it a solid choice for spring festival programming, where you want repertoire that challenges without stretching your rehearsal time thin.

• Reading and executing samba rhythms with precision
• Balancing ensemble cohesion while featuring soloists
• Managing tempo stability at faster tempos (190, 200 BPM)
• Playing written-out solos with musical intent
• Interpreting jazz articulation and phrasing in a section setting