Young Jazz Ensemble Collection: 2nd B-flat Trumpet Book

You'll move fluidly between grooves. One moment you're swinging hard on "Jumpin' at the Woodside," the next you're laying back on a Latin feel, then settling into the cool reflectiveness of a ballad. The written solos keep things playful and accessible while the ensemble passages let you feel what it's like to be part of a tight jazz section.

Second trumpet players in young jazz ensembles who are developing their reading skills and beginning to explore jazz articulation, phrasing, and ensemble balance. This collection works for students transitioning from concert band to jazz or those new to the genre but already comfortable on their instrument.

• Balance your lead voice against the section behind you. Second trumpet often anchors the voicing, so lock in with first trumpet's articulation and phrasing to create a unified sound.
• Use the written solos as a launching point for understanding jazz language, not as a ceiling. Once students are comfortable with the written parts, encourage them to paraphrase and develop their own ideas over the same changes.
• Pay close attention to rhythmic feel in Latin and swing charts. The difference between straight eighth notes and swung eighths will shape how "Jungle Boogie" and "Burritos to Go" sit in the ensemble.
• In ballads like "Misty" and "On Green Dolphin Street," connect to the lyrical intent. Even though you're reading a lead sheet, thinking about the melody's emotional arc helps your section voice choices land with purpose.

Open a jazz concert with an up-tempo swing chart to establish energy, then dip into "Misty" or "Summertime" to show your ensemble's dynamic range. The holiday tune works as a winter concert feature, and "Take Five" becomes an instant crowd favorite that demonstrates rhythmic sophistication. Mix styles across the program to showcase the breadth of the genre.

• Swing articulation and interpretation of jazz phrasing
• Reading chord changes and written solo sections
• Balancing as a section player within a jazz ensemble texture
• Playing in multiple meters including 5/4 time signature
• Responding to different groove feels (swing, Latin, rock, ballad)
• Understanding jazz ensemble voicing and register management