You Are the One: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Meeboer writes jazz that sounds effortless to play but is constructed with real intelligence. Every section gets moments to shine, which keeps students engaged and prevents the typical 'rhythm section carries the tune' dynamic. The Latin groove sits somewhere between approachable and genuinely swinging, making it an ideal first jazz experience for students who haven't yet heard a four-note riff drive an entire arrangement.

Warm and unhurried, like stepping into a familiar place where everyone knows the groove. The four-note motif lodges itself in your ear immediately, and the Latin rhythm gives the piece a gentle forward momentum that feels good to play and even better to listen to. There's space to breathe and moments of real joy, especially when the soloists step forward.

Jazz ensemble directors introducing students to Latin styles and small-group improvisation. The Grade 2 level works for developing ensembles that have basic jazz vocabulary but may not yet be comfortable with swing or complex harmonic movement. Students with limited or no jazz experience will find entry points throughout all sections.

• Lock the four-note riff early in rehearsal. Have the full ensemble sing or speak the words 'You are the one' in rhythm before touching instruments; this imprints the melodic anchor that ties everything together.
• Let the trumpet and trombone soloists own their written passages. These are gift moments for your soloists to connect with the audience, so rehearse them separately and give them permission to phrase with personality.
• Anchor the Latin groove with precision in the rhythm section. The relaxed feel depends on the drums, bass, and piano locking in tightly; a loose rhythm section will make the whole piece sound tentative.
• Balance the main melody across the ensemble. Since the riff appears in multiple sections, check that no one section dominates; the tune should be a conversation, not a solo voice surrounded by accompaniment.

Pair this with a more challenging jazz piece on the same concert to show range and development; the relaxed charm of You Are the One makes it an ideal closer for a set or a bridge between classical and jazz styles on a mixed program. It also works beautifully as a rehearsal morale piece early in the jazz season, when you're building confidence and establishing the sound of your ensemble.

• Latin jazz comping and rhythm section cohesion
• Recognition and execution of a repeated melodic motif across multiple instruments
• Leading and accompanying while playing written-out solos
• Balance between melody and supporting parts in a small ensemble setting
• Phrasing and articulation that supports a relaxed but precise groove