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Jazz Band
Easy
There's nothing like a good Latin tune for starting a conga line and there's nothing like being at the front of that line. That's what Front of the Train is all about: a simple melody and a catchy beat that anyone can easily dance to.
Mission: Secret is a classic spy tune written using a 12-bar blues form. It mostly comprises of a catchy bass line riff with a simple, sustained melody over top. Those instruments playing the riff (tenors, baritone sax, trombones, and rhythm section) are to remain consistent throughout the entire piece, as they create the energetic drive for the song.
Mr. Cool is the perfect chart for directors to use when starting a jazz band for the first time. It is a modal straight riff tune that uses only one chord throughout. It is the perfect opportunity to focus on teaching the swing style, jazz articulations, and some opportunities to introduce improvisation to students who have little to no experience playing jazz.
Rough Copy is an original funk tune primarily made up of catchy riffs and licks. Although it is composed in cut time to create a laid back, funk feel, the eighth notes are to be swung. This helps keep the chart nice and light.
Sleepwalk is a jump swing chart following the tradition of Sing, Sing, Sing. Repetitive riffs are played by all instruments throughout that are guaranteed to get the performers and listeners excited about this chart.
Something Modal is a laid back jump swing chart. The melodies and backgrounds are very simple, yet very catchy. Every section gets an opportunity to play something interesting and fun, but also contribute to the overall feel of the piece. Chord changes are easy enough to open up opportunities for players to practice and show off their improvising abilities.
You Must Know opens with a fun mixture of syncopated rhythms and the power of a rock chart that will grab anyone's attention. This samba tune is meant to be played with lots of energy using an upbeat tempo to keep the excitement going throughout.