2018 Midwest Jazz Ensemble Selections

A devastatingly beautiful ballad, this alto saxophone solo feature is one of the most evocative melodies in Ellington's repertoire. Only two-and-a-half minutes long, it is sure to be a crowd favorite. As

As recorded on "The Bill Holman Band Live" CD, here's a witty, musical, fun-filled feature for baritone saxophone. There's lots of space for creative playing, and the wonderful contrapuntal writing that is

As the title implies, this chart is more than just another blues chart. Blues & More is scored in a blues format, but with a bridge. Featuring a tuneful melody, this exciting and fun chart has

This swinging blues chart in 3/4 meter is a nod to Miles Davis' classic All Blues. Doug Beach's arrangement frames the tune with influences from both Davis and the composer's own

Bob and Weave has a distinctive hip-hop groove that will be a great change-of-pace selection for your band. As the title suggests, there's lots of interplay between sections making this enjoyable

Brown Shuffle was first recorded by Norway's Oslo Groove Company on their jaw-dropping album Anno 1990. Now, for the first time, this newly-engraved edition is available in the United States. Lars

Using a combination of hip-hop and up-tempo swing, here's a marvelous take on Bud Powell's bebop classic. A front line of alto, tenor and trumpet are featured off the top followed by an extended soli for

Based on the chord changes to Gershwin's I Got Rhythm, this bright swing chart was written especially for young groups. The brass ranges are accessible with trumpet up to Eb5 and D4 for

Charlie the Cat is about swing, melody and coolness for the youngest of jazz players. Played at about 120 BPM, the features include a slinky melody, solid and safe ensemble passages, and an

As recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on the album New Life, Cherry Juice is a fast swing opus beginning with a full band statement and a short piano solo before the flugelhorn soloist

Commissioned by the Jazz Division of the Illinois Music Educators Association for the 2019 Illinois All-State Jazz Ensemble, this powerhouse swinging blues chart will make a great addition to any program.

This potent chart is an electric combination of a 12/8 shuffle and an Afro/Cuban 12/8 groove. The groove drives at all times and there's plenty of action for everyone. A big guitar solo

It's holiday mash-up time! This is a clever combination of the traditional carol with sultry Brazilian jazz a la Stan Getz. Two transcribed solos are provided for tenor sax and trumpet (or flugelhorn)

Here's a burning adaptation for big band of the wonderful Michael Brecker tenor feature from the album "Two Blocks from the Edge."

This rollicking original New Orleans-style chart will take you right to Bourbon Street for Mardi Gras! It's an exciting second-line journey in a familiar swing/rock style that will have audiences

Fred Sturm's stunning big-band arrangements continue to mesmerize. This arrangement of the Steely Dan classic, commissioned by the hrBigband, is full of energy and fortitude and seamlessly melds the two

Along with Big Dipper, Don't Git Sassy is one of the most familiar charts from the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra's repertoire. As recorded on their Live at the Village Vanguard album, this

The Chili Pepper makes its initial appearance at the very easy grade level! As with all charts in the Chili Pepper series, this one has an infectious Latin groove, rhythmic excitement and a strong melody.

Written for advancing groups to feature any solo instrument, this beautiful ballad with trumpets on flugelhorns changes to a double-time Latin feel for the middle improvisation section. Other than the

Bob James of TV's Taxi fame delivers this inventive tale on Georges Bizet's Farandole, here adapted for big band. The contemporary funk style is captivating - an exciting trip for the

Every program needs a great funk chart and this accessible original will get a five star rating from both the band and the crowd. Solid ensemble scoring, written or improvised solos for any player, and a