This version of Harlem Nocturne is an Alto feature from the Maynard Ferguson book and has an altogether much cooler feel to it than the ever-present and much played standard stock swing chart. This chart alternates between even and swing feels with the saxes leading the first swinging bridge (backed by the brass), and the brass leading the second (backed by the saxes). The lead alto's solo lines weave in between, and the alto also closes the chart with a series of short cadenza flourishes. This is not a hard chart to play and the brass ranges are very moderate, with lead trumpet only reaching B5 and lead trombone written to G4. There are no sax doubles. |
