Edition: Jazz Big Band Arrangement

Description: Swing Shuffle - Advanced

Publisher: Walrus Music Publishing

In preparation for the 1971 Buddy Rich Orchestra live recording Very Alive at Ronnie Scott's in London I wrote a number of new, original works. Watson's Walk was a companion piece to Dancing Men, both of which were influenced by the Sherlock Holmes stories. I thought it would really be a fun connection with the city and the recording.

I wrote this as a baritone saxophone feature for my buddy Joe Calo and the band opened it up many times to include other soloists. If you listen to the original recording you'll hear Buddy drag out the ending, putting the bass player on the spot. You can make this an opportunity to let your bass player shine.

For those familiar with Buddy's playing, you know he could play a shuffle better than anyone else and this chart gave him a chance to really pour it on. I've included some alternate notation in the lead trumpet for range considerations.

- John La Barbera

 

 

Full Score
2 Alto Saxophones
2 Tenor Saxophones
Baritone Saxophone
4 Trumpets
4 Trombones
Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drum Set

Trumpet 1: G#6
Trumpet 2: E6
Trombone 1: C5