Ensemble

Recorded by John Pizzarelli and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra on the CD Dear Mr. Sinatra, here is John Clayton's adaptation of the chart he penned on the standard Nice 'n' Easy. Featuring a relaxed flowing style and a moderate swing tempo, this is a natural choice for a male (or female) vocalist that includes standout feature spots for the band as well.

Dedicated to Count Basie, this up-tempo swinger opens with a chorus for piano but then quickly launches into a driving swing feel with a sax lead and brass punches. Featured are solos for tenor, trombone and trumpet, along with sparkling ensemble figures.

Grade 4. (Nestico)

It's the night before Christmas in Bethlehem and Inspector Clueless from the Ace Private Eyes Agency is on to a mysterious case! Angel announcements... shepherds... wise men... a speechless priest... all of this could only add up to the greatest miracle of all. Easy to learn and stage, this musical offers a truly creative and clever telling of the Christmas message. Available: Director's Manual (songs, dialog and piano accompaniments, teaching materials, lesson plans, movement, a bulletin cover and poster), Singer's Edition 5-Pak (vocal lines and dialog), Reproducible Pak (lyric and dialog sheets, activities, games and puzzles), ChoirTrax Cassette, ChoirTrax CD, Preview Cassette, RehearsalTrax Pak (12 Preview Cassettes for individual rehearsal). Performance Time: 35 minutes. Grades 1-6.

Roger Holmes does a nice job of capturing the essence of Dizzy's landmark Latin/jazz composition in this easy setting for jazz combo.

Easy Jazz Ensemble - Grade 2 Without losing the essence of this Dizzy Gillespie masterpiece, Mike has crafted a marvelous chart for young players using safe ranges and moderate rhythms. You'll still find the trademark alternating from Latin to swing, as well as written or ad lib. solos for alto and trumpet.

This 1977 hit by Bob Seger features a distinctive rock style from the heartland with a medium tempo pulse and strong melodies. Here's a powerful chart that will sound great even with younger players.

From the show Golden Boy, this jazz standard composed by Charles Strouse is tastefully arranged by Rick Stitzel in a Latin ballad style with a bossa/bolero feel. There is plenty of full ensemble playing, and solos are included for trumpet and tenor (written or ad lib.). This one will be a perfect change of pace for your next concert.