Edition: Jazz Big Band Arrangement
Description: Swing - Medium Easy
Publisher: Kendor Music
Please click here for sound/score video.
If you are looking for a well-developed blues chart with a straight ahead swing feel that has some “meat on the bones” this is the composition for you. Jeff has pulled out all the stops on this wonderful new chart…blues harmony with a twist, interesting development sections and a killer shout chorus.
From the composer/arranger:
"'Blackstone Blues' is an accessible swing original. Scored for jazz ensembles that have some experience or perhaps in the developmental stages, this chart is suitable for all performance situations. All instruments have interesting parts to play, articulations and courtesy accidentals are liberally offered, brass ranges are moderate, and rhythm parts are notated with chords symbols provided. The memorable melody is easy to rehearse and is supported by rich harmonies and common swing figures. The chart is blues based, but includes other interesting material to sustain player and listener interest. However, the solo section consists of basic blues changes with background figures that can be played in any combination.
Rehearsal suggestions:
For optimum results, observe all articulations and dynamics markings to support, but not compete with the melodic motives. A deliberate, well-articulated concept will make the chart sound its best. 'Blackstone Blues' can also be played as a swing shuffle if your drummer is familiar with this groove. The rhythm section parts are thoughtfully written for those who wish to play them as is, but more advanced players may elect to 'comp' their parts, disregarding the notated voicings and rhythms. Developing rhythm sections sometimes play too softly behind soloists. Remember; the more confidently rhythm section play, the more confidently soloists will play!
Improvisers that elect not to play the written solos may negotiate the dominant chords using dominant or mixolydian scales (major scales with a flatted seventh) or bebop scales (major scales with both the flatted and natural seventh). Try to avoid the use of blues scales since inexperienced improvisers tend to dwell on dissonant flat 3rd, 4th, and flat 5th steps. And finally, the shout chorus at measure 94 should be played with spirit, adding excitement to the accented notes by underemphasizing the preceding notes. I wish you and your band the best and hopeyou enjoy 'Blackstone Blues.'"
Blackstone Blues is an accessible Jeff Jarvis swing original. Scored for jazz ensembles that have some experience or perhaps in the
developmental stages, this chart is suitable for all performance situations. All instruments have interesting parts to play, articulations and
courtesy accidentals are liberally offered, brass ranges are moderate, and rhythm parts are notated with chords symbols provided. The
memorable melody is easy to rehearse and is supported by rich harmonies and common swing figures. The chart is blues based, but
includes other interesting material to sustain player and listener interest. However, the solo section consists of basic blues changes with
background figures that can be played in any combination.
Rehearsal Suggestions
For optimum results, observe all articulations and dynamics markings to support, but not compete with the melodic motives. A deliberate,
well-articulated concept will make the chart sound its best. Blackstone Blues can also be played as a swing shuffle if your drummer is
familiar with this groove. The rhythm section parts are thoughtfully written for those who wish to play them as is, but more advanced
players may elect to “comp” their parts, disregarding the notated voicings and rhythms. Developing rhythm sections sometimes play
too softly behind soloists. Remember; the more confidently rhythm section play, the more confidently soloists will play! Improvisers that
elect not to play the written solos may negotiate the dominant chords using dominant or mixolydian scales (major scales with a flatted
seventh) or bebop scales (major scales with both the flatted and natural seventh). Try to avoid the use of blues scales since inexperienced
improvisers tend to dwell on dissonant flat 3rd, 4th, and flat 5th steps. And finally, the shout chorus at measure 94 should be played with
spirit, adding excitement to the accented notes by underemphasizing the preceding notes. I wish you and your band the best and hope
you enjoy Blackstone Blues.Blackstone Blues is an accessible Jeff Jarvis swing original. Scored for jazz ensembles that have some experience or perhaps in the
developmental stages, this chart is suitable for all performance situations. All instruments have interesting parts to play, articulations and
courtesy accidentals are liberally offered, brass ranges are moderate, and rhythm parts are notated with chords symbols provided. The
memorable melody is easy to rehearse and is supported by rich harmonies and common swing figures. The chart is blues based, but
includes other interesting material to sustain player and listener interest. However, the solo section consists of basic blues changes with
background figures that can be played in any combination.
Rehearsal Suggestions
For optimum results, observe all articulations and dynamics markings to support, but not compete with the melodic motives. A deliberate,
well-articulated concept will make the chart sound its best. Blackstone Blues can also be played as a swing shuffle if your drummer is
familiar with this groove. The rhythm section parts are thoughtfully written for those who wish to play them as is, but more advanced
players may elect to “comp” their parts, disregarding the notated voicings and rhythms. Developing rhythm sections sometimes play
too softly behind soloists. Remember; the more confidently rhythm section play, the more confidently soloists will play! Improvisers that
elect not to play the written solos may negotiate the dominant chords using dominant or mixolydian scales (major scales with a flatted
seventh) or bebop scales (major scales with both the flatted and natural seventh). Try to avoid the use of blues scales since inexperienced
improvisers tend to dwell on dissonant flat 3rd, 4th, and flat 5th steps. And finally, the shout chorus at measure 94 should be played with
spirit, adding excitement to the accented notes by underemphasizing the preceding notes. I wish you and your band the best and hope
you enjoy Blackstone Blues.
