Ulla in Africa: 4 Saxophones SATBar/AATBar Conductor Score & Parts

Wiberny has crafted a funk arrangement with genuine rhythmic groove and authentic voice writing. The optional easy and medium solos offer meaningful space for your section members to shine while keeping the ensemble texture cohesive, and the dual instrumentation option (SATBar or AATBar) gives you flexibility depending on who shows up.

Afro-funk energy with tight rhythmic pocket and infectious groove. The arrangement swings with a modern, accessible sensibility that keeps listeners engaged while giving each saxophone voice interesting material to play.

Saxophone quartets seeking high-energy, contemporary repertoire that audiences actually want to hear. This works equally well for intermediate ensembles looking for groove-based material and more advanced groups wanting a fun break from the standard classical quartet repertoire.

• Lock the rhythm section (baritone and tenor) into a tight pocket with the drums or rhythm accompaniment; their consistency drives the entire groove.
• Take the optional solos at a relaxed tempo during first rehearsal to ensure intonation and voicing before adding energy.
• Emphasize the syncopated rhythms in the tutti passages; this is what makes the funk character work, so precision in the section attacks matters more than volume.
• Balance the soprano and alto voices clearly when they carry the melody, as they sit in a register that can easily get buried if the lower voices push too hard.

Program this as a contemporary opener or closer to refresh concert energy. It pairs nicely alongside other world-music influenced works or as a palate cleanser between serious classical pieces.

• Groove-based rhythm reading and ensemble lock (syncopation in funk contexts)
• Balancing solo vs. ensemble textures in small chamber groups
• Managing flexible instrumentation (reading both SATBar and AATBar voicings)
• Transposition and voice adaptation for B-flat and E-flat saxophones
• Articulation and phrasing in contemporary funk and jazz idioms