Ensemble

Adapted from his Grammy winning arrangement for Queen Latifah, here is a smokin' swing chart that features a relaxed vocal line accompanied by absolutely blazing figures from the band. An exceptional powerhouse of a chart!

Easy Jazz Ensemble - Grade 2 No one created more tuneful melodies than Duke Ellington, and this medium slow swinger is a classic! In this easy version, alternately featured is an alto sax solo, trumpet section, sax section and the full band. Also included are ad lib. or written solos for alto and trumpet as well as a solid tutti ensemble finish.

The trombones get first crack at the melody in this great Ellington shuffle tune before the entire band joins in. Written in a medium tempo and featuring nicely scored ensemble writing, solos are included for tenor sax and trumpet. This one just feels right!

Originally arranged for Ernie Andrews, this hard-swinging chart provides a real workout for band and vocalist alike. The blues-infused style features interplay between the singer and the band as well as short solos for piano and trumpet. Let it roar! Recorded on Smack Dab in the Middle - The Hal Leonard Jazz Orchestra, conducted by John Clayton (07011581)

With its modal chord structure, this Coltrane classic is a great solo vehicle within the small band setting.

Take this swingin' Ellington favorite and put it in the skilled hands of Michael Sweeney and you have a magnificent teaching and performance piece for beginning jazz groups. The style is authentic even at this easy level.

One of the all-time Ellington classics is this elegant medium swing tune. Mark's smooth arrangement features plenty of rich ensemble scoring plus solos for trumpet and trombone.

Celebrate the centennial of the Duke's birthday with this outstanding easy setting of one of his best-known ballads. Nicely scored for an effective performance by inexperienced bands.