Edition: Jazz Big Band Arrangement

Description: Bossa Nova - Medium Difficult

Publisher: Excelcia Music Publishing

Please click here for sound/score video.

This is the real deal — an authentic Bossa Nova from the master of the style, Michele Fernández. Along with the detailed rhythm section parts, Michele has included some optional Auxiliary Percussion parts that add to the Brazilian feel. Moderate brass ranges and straight forward rhythms make this a very playable chart.

From the composer/arranger:

"1. The opening line has a unique, funky voicing. Piano must play as written (Guitar, where possible). Articulation is crucial in delivering the intended feel.

2. Regarding percussion: Please ensure Drum Set adheres to written patterns to establish Bossa Nova rhythmic authenticity. Slight variations are fine, but the basic pattern needs to be established. Drummer should solidify leg patterns first. Do not add arms until legs are solid. Suggestion is to start slowly in sectional with metronome. Drums should be careful to avoid accenting the anticipatory 8th note in the bass drum. Instead, put the weight on the main quarters (Beats 1 and 3). This concept applies to Bass Guitar as well.The bass drum pedal and bass guitar should be tightly aligned at all times- as in any Latin, or Afro-Latin style. Percussion should always follow the dynamics as the horns do. Don’t just hover on one dynamic. Aux percussion is crucial to the tapestry of this work. Any “extra” wind player can easily cover the parts.

3. Guitar and Piano should not comp busily, simultaneously. Either alternate roles (padding vs. rhythmic comp) or take turns laying out.

4. The ideal, more era-authentic sound for the horns (especially saxes) is a warm, dark sound; avoid edgy, bright tones. Play with a Sassy lilt to the line to deliver the playful feeling intended. Perform all accents with strong AIR attack/immediate decay. This gives the lines LIFE.

5. Soloist: don’t worry about busy lines. Even using just a few notes in a rhythmic feel will make a great solo. This is very “cool jazz” era-inspired. Keep it simple: Just find a modest, pretty melody and share it!

6. Have fun with this chart. All forms of Latin music are infectious due to the hypnotic, rhythmic groove. Get lost in that groove!"

 

 

 

Full Score
2 Alto Saxophones
2 Tenor Saxophones
Baritone Saxophone
4 Trumpets
4 Trombones (4th Bass)
Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drums
Vibes
Tom-toms
Aux Percussion (Triangle, Egg Shaker, Bongos)