What's Going On (arr. Les Hooper): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Les Hooper's arrangement captures the infectious groove and social urgency of the original while giving your ensemble room to stretch into contemporary jazz vocabulary. The alto sax solo provides a natural feature moment, and the West Coast energy keeps the whole band engaged without requiring virtuosic chops at every stand. This is the kind of accessible crossover piece that reminds students why they play jazz in the first place.

Propulsive and purposeful. The West Coast attitude brings a laid-back confidence to the original's message, letting the band settle into the pocket and enjoy the ride. There's sophistication in the voicings and a real sense of forward motion throughout.

Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level looking for a contemporary arrangement that balances accessibility with authentic groove. Directors programming concerts that bridge jazz, pop, and rock worlds will find this especially valuable because it gives students a familiar song to hook onto while they develop jazz reading skills.

• Let the rhythm section establish the pocket first. The bass and drums need to lock in tight before anyone else adds layers; this Hooper arrangement relies on that foundation to make the funk breathe.
• Shape the alto solo with plenty of space. Resist the urge to fill every beat; Hooper's voicings support the soloist best when the ensemble plays with restraint during that section.
• Emphasize the unison figures in the horns. They're written to hit hard, and clarity here makes the arrangement feel organized and sharp rather than muddy.
• Keep the energy consistent from top to bottom. Grade 5 ensembles sometimes rush during the funkier sections; a steady click and conductor's attention to tempo pays dividends.

This works equally well as a concert opener (to grab attention immediately) or a mid-set anchor that shifts the mood toward something groovier. It's ideal for spring concerts when ensembles have built their chops and can handle the rhythmic precision required. The crossover appeal also makes it a smart choice for community outreach events where jazz might share billing with other genres.

• Funk and R&B rhythmic feels with emphasis on pocket and groove
• Reading jazz chord symbols and interpreting harmony in a pop-rooted context
• Supporting and responding to a featured soloist
• Balancing articulation and tone across a mixed ensemble (horns, rhythm section)
• Understanding the relationship between composed figures and improvisation