Jazz Ensemble Releases
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Fish Face
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Fish Face is a tune that will have you making an expression like you just smelled something foul or heard something funky! Spoiler alert: It's the second one...the tune smells fine. Young jazzers will have a blast performing this chart while directors will appreciate educational opportunities related to style changes and melodic interpretation. Also, early improvisors will have fun playing over very approachable changes that offer a slight diversion from a typical Bb blues.
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Sidetracked (But Not Derailed)
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Sidetracked (But Not Derailed) is a minor blues that is essentially written in AABA form. The A section follows the same chord progression as John Coltrane’s “Mr. PC” while the B section is inspired by Trane’s “Locomotion.” Since “Locomotion” is a blues with an 8 bar interlude I thought it would be fun to play with the same concept in a minor blues. The title aims to represent this concept while also hinting at an overriding train (or “Trane”) theme. Sidetracked (But Not Derailed) was written for the Summit Middle School Jazz Ensemble (NJ) and their director, Justin Toomey.
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Future Releases
On the Cool Side
Excelcia Music Publishing 2021
Grade 2
The term cool derives from what journalists perceived as an understated or subdued feeling in the music of Miles Davis, the Modern Jazz Quartet and others who were at the forefont of the "cool" sound. This ultra chill vibe even found its way into popular music of the day with tunes such as Peggy Lee's classic recording of "Fever." On the Cool Side strikes a balance with some smokin' hot melodies and vibrant ensemble sections all the while keeping things very...very...cool.
Mamasita Needs a Break
Excelcia Music Publishing 2021
Grade 3
The eclectic work for jazz ensemble combines a hip funk shuffle and transitional latin interludes in keeping musicians on their toes while tapping their feet! Students will love this unconventional chart with ample space to stretch out and improvise some hot licks (optional written solos provided, of course)!
Big Band Bash
Excelcia Music Publishing 2021
Grade 3
Inspired by the great big bands of the swing era in American popular music, this chart check all the boxes! Subtle nods to some classic tunes can be found hidden in the texture or this completely original take on the early 20th century art form that took a nation by storm.