Amazing Grace (VJCP547-BB)
words by John Newton
(as set to the folk song New Britain)arr. by David Yackley
Jazz Ensemble version
$50.00 (USD)
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VJCP547-BB – Jazz Ensemble Chart, written for the full, traditional big band line-up (17-18 performers). The instrumentation is as follows:
Alto Sax I, Alto Sax II, Tenor Sax I, Tenor Sax II, Baritone Sax
Trumpet I, Trumpet II, Trumpet III, Trumpet IV
Trombone I, Trombone II, Trombone III, Bass Trombone (IV)
Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums, Vibraphone (opt.)
Description: As reimagined by arranger David Yackley, Amazing Grace lives at the intersection of feel good gospel and straight ahead swing! After a rousing opening chorus, featuring only the horns, the rhythm section enters, in support of the pianist who solos in the style of Count Basie.
Following an ensemble chorus, which provides another statement of the familiar melody, there is space for an alto sax solo. After a contrapuntal interlude, a member of the trumpet section is called to solo. And in lieu of a traditional shout chorus, there is a drum solo, with the drummer playing fills around ensemble hits that hint at the great hymn once more.
With a passing nod to the musical language of the Count Basie Orchestra (particularly the late 1960’s, when Sammy Nestico’s influence was first prevalent), this big band treatment of Amazing Grace is scored in conservative registers for the brass, making this easily programmed by just about any jazz ensemble. Although most VJC Publications are “flex. charts”, please note that this release is intended strictly for the full, 17- or 18-piece jazz ensemble.
This big band arrangement is of intermediate difficulty.
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Please note: The VJC will never pursue payment of synchronization rights from middle schools, junior high schools, high schools, community colleges, universities, all-state ensembles, church groups, or independent educational programs for young people related to the posting of recorded performances of this work on YouTube or other, similar sites (including social media platforms). While sharing the .pdf files is not permitted, sharing your musical performance online is.
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Amazing Grace (Jazz Ensemble vers.)
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