Edition: Jazz Little Big Band Arrangement

Description: Swing - Medium

Publisher: Walrus Music Publishing

St. Louis Blues is a great composition by W. C Handy and is the first blues to be published in 1914 and at the same time succeeding as a pop song. This chart is arranged following the same general form as Glenn Miller's version with some additions to create interest. Harmonies/chords have been upgraded from major 6/9 and minor 6 chords to dominant and minor 7ths chords and syncopating melodies and backgrounds to give the chart a more modern and acceptable sound. Also, the solo section has been opened up. The chart opens with the piano taking a few chorus' of blues, ala Gene Harris, in the key of B-flat and then modulating to the original key of G with the traditional St. Louis Blues opening featuring the drummer on a march drum cadence. The head (main melody) still has the exciting alternating march cadence and swing feel that audiences love and expect. After the head there is an open solo section. The pianist is the last soloist, and continues soloing into the tutti section

Full Score
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone
2 Trumpets
Trombone
Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drums