Starter (VJCP534-FBB)
comp. & arr. by Russell Schmidt
$40.00 (USD)
 
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VJCP534-FBB – Flexible Instrumentation Jazz Ensemble Chart, which has been written to sound complete with as few as 11 pieces or as many as a full (18-piece) big band. The instrumentation is as follows:
 
Alto Sax I, Alto Sax II, Tenor Sax I, Tenor Sax II (opt.), Baritone Sax (opt.)
Trumpet I, Trumpet II, Trumpet III, Trumpet IV (opt.)
Trombone I, Trombone II, Trombone III (opt.), Trombone (IV) (opt.)
Guitar (opt.), Piano, Bass, Drums, Vibraphone (opt.)
 
Because this chart has been written for younger jazz ensemble, the optional Trombone IV part has not been specifically written for Bass Trombone, but is instead a more general (Tenor) Trombone part.
 
Description: Starter is a great introduction to the blues for beginning jazz ensemble. This blues (in G) makes very limited demands of developing musicians, both technically and rhythmically. There is a strong emphasis on learning to play the ‘Charleston rhythm’ with a convincing swing feel at the core of this piece. 
 
The chart takes an additive approach, layering various elements over the first three choruses. This creates an appealing sonic variety without requiring each player to learn a lot of different musical material. After the Head In, there is a chorus for a Piano solo, then an open solo section in which any member of the band can solo. Backgrounds in the open section reinforce the ‘Charleston rhythm’ in a slightly varied form. 
 
Following the open solo section, there is a brief Drum solo, supported by other rhythm section performers. The Head Out follows, reversing the format of the Head In: All the musical components are present from the start, then elements fall away one chorus at a time. The final pass through the blues form brings the chart to a satisfying and symmetrical conclusion, matching perfectly how Starter began. 
 
Starter is of beginning-level difficulty.
 
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