Duke Ellington

From John La Barbera's latest big band recording here is the title cut – a masterful arrangement of this little-known Ellington gem. The tempo is moderate in an African/Latin vein and features a wealth of interestingorchestrational colors within the context of the big band. Featured solos include tenor or soprano sax and piano. Unique and dynamic!From the Jazz Compass recording Fantazm by the John La Barbera Big Band(JC1011)

Everyone will recognize this Duke Ellington classic. Using interesting textures and alternating between a Latin groove and swing this is a very effective production number with limited technical demands.

Grade 1.5Finally this Ellington classic is available for even the most inexperienced bands. For starters this version is in Bb rather than C. Rick features the saxes on the melody with inventive brass counterlines andlater a marvelous ensemble tutti section that starts soft then builds to the end. An absolute must! Performance Time: 3:30

Easy Jazz Ensemble ? Grade 2No 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 saxsection and the full band. Also included are ad lib. or written solos for alto and trumpet as well as a solid tutti ensemble finish.

Here is an excitingly different take on this Ellington swing classic done in a mambo style! Including a slightly twisted melody to fit the style Latin master Michael Philip Mossman cleverly adds counterlines a montuno section solos for alto and trumpet and a vamp that starts soft then gains momentum. We think even the Duke would have liked this distinctive chart!

Jazz Classics for the Young Ensemble – Grade 3No one handles Ellington for younger ensembles better than Mark Taylor and this well-crafted arrangement shows why. Although Mark uses a written trumpet solo on thebridge the main theme is handled by the full ensemble playing primarily tutti rhythms. Included are solos for trumpet and tenor (written or ad lib.) then a brief double time swing section featuring the entire ensemble. We thinkthe Duke himself would have liked this one.

Maybe not as well-known as some other famous Ellington standards yet What Am I Here For' is an engaging and tuneful composition that certainly deserves more notice. Arranged in a medium swing style this smooth chartrelies on a rich full ensemble texture and a relaxed feel. The saxes get a chance to shine and there are also solos for trombone and piano.

This very special and historic publication is an exact transcription of the 1941 version recorded by Duke Ellington. David Berger's expertise is evident in the completely voiced out rhythm parts and written out solos. This classic belongs in every library.

'Tattooed Bride' is Ellington's masterpiece from 1948---a through-composed, 11-minute jazz symphony. Prominently featuring the clarinet, each of the four sections contrast in mood, tempo, and dynamics. Additional solos are included for piano and trombone. / Ensemble De Jazz

The unique harmonic sounds of this Duke Ellington classic make it particularly appealing for jazz combos.