Unit 7: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Rich Sigler's arrangement balances accessibility with genuine jazz sophistication; the written alto solo gives less experienced soloists a road map while the big shout chorus lets the whole ensemble swing together. At Grade 2, this chart proves you don't need advanced chops to sound like a real jazz band.

A classic straight-ahead jazz standard with enough melodic charm to keep young players engaged and enough swing to remind them why they wanted to play jazz in the first place. The hint of Stan Kenton's energy pushes the sound just slightly beyond predictable.

Jazz ensemble conductors building a Grade 2 program that includes both solid fundamentals and real swing repertoire. This works for high school groups new to jazz charts or middle school ensembles ready to move beyond basic jazz combos.

• Set a steady groove in the rhythm section first. The chart lives and dies by pocket, not speed. Lock the quarter-note pulse before adding any articulation or dynamics.
• Balance the written alto solo so it sits comfortably above the section but never drowns out the walking bass and comping underneath.
• The shout chorus needs energy and precision. Mark every entrance clearly in your score and use it as a chance to show the ensemble's blend and intonation together.
• Honor the swing feel at 150 BPM. If the band plays it straight or rushed, the arrangement loses its character. Work triplet feels until eighth notes feel naturally pushed back.

Program this at a jazz festival or contest where a well-crafted, medium-difficulty chart can shine without overshadowing other selections. It also pairs well with simpler teaching charts earlier in the season to show students what solid jazz writing sounds like when fully prepared.

• Swing eighth-note articulation and feel
• Reading and executing jazz chord symbols
• Ensemble balance between soloist and accompaniment
• Rhythmic precision in group shout sections
• Listening to and playing with a walking bass line