SKU: KN.62045
UPC: 822795620450.
This 2015 Grammy-nominated arrangement, was recorded by the Pete McGuinness Jazz Orchestra on Strength In Numbers' (Summit Records). The original Stephen Foster waltz is refitted here as a medium-bright tempo samba in 4/4 time. The 1st alto has an optional double on soprano, and solos are included for piano and alto/soprano sax. Recording courtesy of Summit Records.
SKU: KN.52160S
As recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on the album New Life, this fast swing 'opus' starts with a full-band statement and a short piano solo before the flugelhorn soloist steps into the spotlight. Then tenor carries a solo chorus, followed by a powerful ensemble shout, an incredible sax soli, a 16-bar piano solo, a short band recap of the main theme, and closing coda. Duration 5:45.
SKU: KN.64010
UPC: 822795640106.
Recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on the album New Life, this fast swing original opens with a full-band statement and a short piano solo before the trumpet soloist steps into the spotlight. Then tenor carries a solo chorus, followed by a powerful ensemble shout, an incredible sax soli, a 16-bar piano solo, a short band recap of the main theme, and closing coda. Written for SSTTB saxophones. Duration 6:00.
SKU: KN.52425
Exactly as recorded by the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin Big Band on their classic RCA album, Tales Of A Courtesan, this solo feature for trombone or flugelhorn also includes an improvised flute obbligato and solo room for alto sax. The slow bossa ballad style just naturally enhances the warm, expressive character of this beautiful showpiece for capable groups. Duration 4:00.
SKU: KN.52759
UPC: 822795527599.
Duration 5:28.
SKU: KN.52835
As recorded by the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin Big Band on the album Road Time, this feature for solo flute includes solo room for alto sax and piano as well. By contrasting a series of transparent, combo-like passages with strong, full-ensemble sections, Akiyoshi generates the kind of intensity and excitement that makes a lasting impression on audiences. The solo flute part is written out exactly as it was played and recorded by Lew Tabackin. Duration 8:00.
SKU: KN.64044
UPC: 822795640441.
This classic chart is taken directly from the original ink parts that were on the stands at the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra (now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra) debut performance in February 1966 and continue to be played by the group Monday nights at the Village Vanguard in New York City. Originally commissioned by Count Basie for an entire album of Thad Jones' music, but Basie never made the record, and suggested that Thad start his own band instead. From that advice, Thad formed the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra. Based on the chord changes to I Got Rhythm, this uptempo advanced level chart maintains the swinging Basie mindset and is in a 32-measure AABA form. Duration 8:50.
SKU: KN.64006
UPC: 822795640069.
This advanced level edition is taken directly from the original ink parts that were on the stands at the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra (now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra) debut performance in February 1966 and continues to be played by the group Monday nights at the Village Vanguard in New York City. Originally commissioned by Count Basie for an entire album of Thad Jones' music, however Basie never made the record, instead suggesting that Thad start his own band. This extended 16-bar blues still maintain that swinging Basie mindset in a straight-ahead blues style. Its basic foundations are a relaxed but powerful rhythm section with a driving ride cymbal beat and crisp hi-hat, underpinning saxes and brass that are tight, and always on the back of the beat. Duration 4:40.
SKU: KN.62765S
UPC: 822795627657.
Written in a minor blues form featuring an 8-bar bridge, this challenging original depicts the music of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers from the late '50s and early '60s. It requires an aggressive approach from everyone to faithfully capture the hard bop style. Duration 5:20.
SKU: KN.52935
As recorded by the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin Big Band on the RCA album Insights, this unique ballad featuring solo bari sax uses a variety of textures, dynamics and groove changes from swing to even-8ths to deliver its moody message. While some of the sax and brass section figures are rhythmically sophisticated, they will come together well with careful rehearsal. Duration 4:33.
SKU: KN.64025
UPC: 822795640250.
This medium shuffle chart is a simple tune composed by Jerome Richardson, loosely based on The Preacher by Horace Silver. Thad's arrangement features the SATTB saxophone section, and is playable by advanced level groups. Duration 4:30.
SKU: KN.52800
Recorded in 1968 by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra on their Monday Night album, this swingin' blues at a moderate tempo opens with an ad lib piano solo, then shifts immediately to a solo chorus for Harmon-muted trumpet. Tenor sax also serves as a soloist later on, with plenty of great section and ensemble passages providing essential power and balance. Duration 6:15.
SKU: KN.52405S
Exactly as recorded by the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin Big Band on their Tales Of A Courtesan album, this slow, bluesy swing feature for bass trombone or tuba also boasts sax and brass solis, an ensemble shout, and strong finish. Duration 5:30.
SKU: KN.52580
Originally written in 1946 by Charlie Parker soon after his longtime friend and musical companion Dizzy Gillespie left him in Los Angeles to return to New York City, this uptempo setting for big band in the original key of Bb features the I Got Rhythm changes on which Parker's tune is based. A wide-open solo for lead alto, shorter solo segments for 3 trombones, and an 8-bar unaccompanied solo for the drummer allows ample stretching room for proficient players. Duration 3:45.
SKU: KN.52305
Commissioned by the CSULA Jazz Band directed by Robert Curnow, this contemporary original in two styles -- fast rock and swing -- is a challenging workout for all and features an intense, edgy sound that today's audiences (and players) will love. Solos for alto, trumpet and drums are highlights. Duration 7:30.
SKU: KN.52845
Subtitled A Shuffle For Art's Sake (referring to Art Dedrick, Kendor's founder) and commissioned by Kendor in celebration of its 25th anniversary, this dynamic original assigns solos to alto, tenor and plunger trumpet. Challenging brass and sax solis, a potent shout and a screaming final chord make this a winner in anyone's book! Duration ca. 7:30.
SKU: KN.52350S
As recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on their 1972 album Suite For Pops, soprano sax gets the lion's share of solo action in this bright swinger, with additional solos for tenor, trumpet and drums added for good measure. Plenty of bold tutti writing keeps the overall energy (and volume) level high, making this a great program opener or closer. Duration 5:30.
SKU: KN.52410
Written for and dedicated to Louie Bellson, this bright swing 'opus' is a wonderful solo feature for the drummer. Creative section and ensemble passages, along with some great solo stretching room for bari sax, make it a real change-of-pace choice for any concert or contest program. Duration ca. 7:00.
SKU: KN.52350
SKU: KN.52095
This medium-tempo blues for proficient groups gives solos to soprano sax and piano, followed by a solo chorus that can be opened up for tenor, trumpet and/or trombone according to your band's strengths.
SKU: KN.64065
UPC: 822795640656. 9 x 12 inches.
Our 4th offering in the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra Signature Editions, is Once Around. This fast swing advanced level chart was among the first charts Thad Jones wrote for the new band in 1966, as a more modern contrast to the Basie-oriented arrangements that were in the band's early repertoire. Early 1960's forays into more open, modal jazz forms by Miles Davis and John Coltrane had turned the jazz world upside down in just a few years, prompting many artists to expand from bebop-oriented ii-V-I chord structures. This arrangement was one of Thad Jones' responses to that trend. This piece is a wide-open vehicle for improvisation. There are multiple open solo sections, each with extended improvisation opportunities. Duration 3:00.
SKU: KN.62585S
UPC: 822795625851.
Every well-paced concert needs a chart like this. Veteran jazz educator Bob Washut brings us this even-8ths feel original composed for the State University of New York at Oswego Jazz Ensemble. It requires a mature approach from all members of the band as they transition through various dynamic levels. Solo space is given to guitar and tenor sax. Duration 7:25.
SKU: KN.52235S
As recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on their Live At The Village Vanguard album, this spirited shuffle puts proficient bands through the paces. Articulations and rhythms must be played accurately for best results, and solos for piano, trumpets 2-4, and tenor sax are included. Duration 7:20.
SKU: KN.52355
As recorded in 1972 by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on their album Suite For Pops, this solo feature for scat vocalist or guitar opens with a big, full-band intro in slow swing before the 'funky 4 feel' takes over. Punctuated by screaming brass parts, ad lib solo fills by trumpet and tenor, and an optional solo cadenza before the final chord, this tribute to Louis 'Pops' Armstrong is intended for experienced bands only. Duration 11:30.
SKU: KN.52600
Recorded by The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra on the album Thad Jones Legacy, this blazing chart, meant to be played as fast as possible, opens with a repeating vamp featuring horn players on Latin percussion instruments. Then excitement builds as horns enter a few at a time until the whole ensemble reaches the first tutti chorus. Solos for tenor and drums (with horns playing percussion again) are included, and the finale is swift and powerful. Duration 5:00.
SKU: KN.52630
Recorded by the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin Big Band on the album March Of The Tadpoles, this uptempo solo feature for tenor sax takes no prisoners! Playing with well-articulated, rhythmic precision in the soli and ensemble sections is essential. The dramatic conducted ending will be especially popular with audiences. Duration 7:30.
SKU: KN.52095S
SKU: KN.62680
UPC: 822795626803.
This original for proficient groups is a sure bet for getting your audiences and judges engaged. Effective salsa rhythms are utilized throughout and the brass ranges are moderate. Duration 5:00. Available in SmartMusic.
SKU: KN.52540
As recorded by the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra on their Suite For Pops album, this tribute to Louis Armstrong begins with a short soprano sax solo before the band joins in. Lots of wonderful sax section work, solo room for tenor, and a full-band shout come next, with an 8-bar soprano solo just before the final band chord. Duration 7:00.
SKU: KN.52085
This adaptation of the Charlie Parker classic features a fast swing tempo and the bop-style lines you'd expect, but it also pays tribute to Bird by casting selected horns in intimate, combo-like settings within the full ensemble format. The solo work goes to lead alto, and alternating sax and brass solis culminate in a shout that takes this chart out strong.
