SKU: KN.61720

UPC: 822795617207.

Here's an effective bright swing piece scored in the popular Count Basie style that is designed to make advancing groups sound their very best. As in many Basie-style works, dynamics and articulations play a key role in any presentation. For optimum results in achieving a tight ensemble sound, the rhythm section sets the pace in the opening moments of the introduction. Since the drummer enters after 24 measures, the guitarist and bass lock tempo with the pianist, giving them the chance to learn self-reliance without the drummer policing the time and groove. The horns will fall easily into place once this feel is established. Each set includes a guitar chord chart by Jim Greeson. Duration 3:15. Available in SmartMusic.

SKU: CL.032-4789-01

This playful medium-tempo swinger features a smooth, self-assured melody that glides along a cool, slightly altered blues progression. Trumpet and alto sax carry the melody at first before passing it off to the brass section; saxophones cleverly punctuate the brass section with heavily accented chords. The saxophones take the melody the third time around, while the brass offers incisive interjections here and there. A solo section follows that features just the right amount of background writing that enhances the proceedings without ever getting in the way; the solo section may be repeated as desired to feature additional soloists. A swinging ensemble follows the solos, starting off at a simmer and gradually heating up to the exciting full-ensemble shout chorus. Don’t Let These Blues Fool You is sure to be a favorite for concert and contest!

SKU: CL.033-0260-00

This is not an encyclopedia, but an unusual juxta position of two styles of music. The fanfare is an exciting straight-ahead bit of writing which works its way through contrapuntal and polytonal paths and somehow finds itself in the middle of a funk version of itself. After some solos and a drum solo transition the music completes the symmetric circle and ends as it started. A great opener!

SKU: CL.033-2265-00

A good solid funk beat lays down a bed for some good riffs in this creative chart by a gifted writer. Although not in the ``easy’’ category it can be played by most high school groups. Soloists can be chosen by the director. Once it cranks up..it plays by itself.

SKU: CL.032-0248-00

Interesting interplay between saxes. Trumpet ranges are reasonable with several options for soloists in a super shuffle that swings itself.