Edition: Jazz Octet Arrangement

Description: Swing - Medium

Publisher: Jazz Lines Publications

In 1957 Dizzy Gillespie recorded the album 'The Greatest Trumpet of Them All' for Verve. This session featured Dizzy Gillespie in a completely different context: an octet, featuring the arrangements of Gigi Gryce and Benny Golson. Gryce and Golson, being two of the most creative composers and arrangers of the time, were also part of the ensemble playing alto sax and tenor sax respectively. Golson had first written for and recorded with Dizzy a year earlier as a member of Gillespie's big band (notable tracks include Whisper Not, Stablemates, and I Remember Clifford). Gryce had been a member of the trumpeter's band in 1955, featured on a recording session in September 12 of that year.

Golson and Gryce's forward thinking compositions present to listeners an entirely different Dizzy Gillespie. For those used to hearing fast-paced bop licks and high register playing you're in for a real treat. These arrangements provide a wonderful backdrop for soloing and allowed Dizzy to present a warm side of his playing, seldom seen during his prior recording sessions.

Blues After Dark was composed by Golson in 1957 and first recorded by Howard Rumsey in February of that year. This arrangement features tenor sax, trumpet, and piano solos with backgrounds. Throughout the arrangement are interesting harmonies and varied rhythmic figures that make this chart fun to play!

Full Score
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
Trumpet
Trombone
Guitar (Optional)
Piano
Bass
Drums

Trumpet: G5
Trombone: A4