Embedded Files
Sassy
Sassy
Written by: Bill Bodine, Cheryl Bentyne, & Janis Siegel
Originally performed by Manhattan Transfer, this bold big band arrangement of Sassy is inspired by Kurt Elling and Charlie Hunter’s funky take from the 2021 album Superblue. It paints a vivid portrait of a fiery, bluesy female vocalist through colorful textures and dynamic energy.
The piece kicks off with a full-band punch, followed by a sharp trombone moment and a saxophone-led lyrical section—optionally replaced by a vocalist. A powerful shout leads into a soulful Tenor Sax 1 solo, passed to the drummer in a punchy fill before exploding into a gritty climax. It closes with a vamp duet between Tenor and Bari Sax.
This is a playground for rhythm section creativity, with room for pedal use, slap, and open solos. Inserts for C, Bb, and Eb instruments are included.
Recording is performed by The One O'Clock Lab Band under the direction of Alan Baylock
The Commander
The Commander
This high-energy big band piece, inspired by the 1940s swing era and Sammy Nestico, opens with a chaotic boot camp scene brought to order by a commanding trumpet soloist leading a roaring ensemble. Featuring elements of I Got Rhythm, The Field Artillery Song, a driving drum solo, and a Count Basie-style shout chorus, it offers space for improvisation and rhythm section interplay. Composed as a tribute to lead trumpeter Richie Thaller—of the UNT One O’Clock Lab Band and new member of The U.S. Army Blues—it celebrates his accomplishments and passion for keeping swing music alive.
Instrumentation is a standard jazz band with a fifth trumpet and 5 trombone. Optional clarinet double and violin.
Recording is performed by The One O'Clock Lab Band under the direction of Alan Baylock
The Riveter
The Riveter
Have you ever wondered what Rosie the Riveter's voice sounded like? Me too! I envision a spunky and upbeat pep in her step, brimming with the can-do spirit of a woman who can hold her own. I imagine her with a whole lot of moxie and an unbreakable work ethic. This tune captures the fierce power of women and the grind of the working world.
Instrumentation is a standard jazz band.
Recording is performed by Parker's Lab band, featuring Emmy nominated Benny Benack III.
Praia Do Espelho
Praia Do Espelho
Latin big band tune great for high school and college jazz bands. It has a groove and melody that will get the audience humming for the rest of the night.
Instrumentation is a standard jazz band.
Recording is performed by the V Sue Cleveland High School Jazz Band in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Directed by Daniel Holmes.
Smile?
Smile?
By Charlie Chaplin
One of my favorite songs ever written. It holds a special place in my heart. This is an orchestrated combo chart of Charlie Chaplin's Smile.
Orchestrated for trumpet, tenor sax, trombone, and rhythm section.
White Christmas
White Christmas
By Irving Berlin
Ah, the magic of a snowy Christmas! This arrangement is like unwrapping presents on Christmas morning--full of cheer and delight for all to enjoy.
Arranged for standard jazz band and voice.
Recording is performed by the Eddie Brewer Jazz Orchestra in Albuquerque, NM
Satin Doll
Satin Doll
By Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, & Johnny Mercer
Latin/Swing (3:00). This is a great tune for a high school or college band that switches between Latin and Swing. Solo parts for Tenor voice, trombone, or trumpet included. First Alto has an optional flute double.
Instrumentation is a standard jazz band.
You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch
You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch
By Thurl Ravenscroft
Vocal feature with a jazz orchestra, perfect for a vocalist with lots of imagination and flair. This piece showcases each section and soloists. A wonderful tune to end a Christmas concert.
Instrumentation includes a standard jazz band, vocalist, 2 violin parts, viola, cello, and double bass.
Mele Kalikimaka
Mele Kalikimaka
By R. Alex Anderson
This up-tempo tune is a tip of the hat to the Bing Crosby and Andrews Sisters's "Mele Kalikimaka". This arrangement features a variety of sections including the trumpet section, trombone section, and your star alto/tenor vocalist. The guitar part can be substituted for electric Ukelele with moderately involved piano comping.
Instrumentation is a standard jazz band and optional electric ukelele.
Recording is performed by Parker's Lab Band at Deck the Chairs in Jacksonville Beach, FL
It Could happen to you
It Could happen to you
By Jimmy Van Heusen & Johnny Burke
I've breathed new life into an old classic! Our waltzing number takes a wild turn into a double-time swing section, making room for some electrifying improvisation. The audience is in for a real treat, with surprises and thrills around every corner!
Arranged for standard jazz band and solo vocalist.
Recording is performed by Parker's Lab band, featuring Emmy nominated Benny Benack III.
Rêverie
Rêverie
By Claude Debussy
The lush harmonies and ethereal textures give the impression of floating through a hazy dream world. The use of woodwind instruments, such as the flute and oboe, adds to the dreamy quality of the piece. As the piece progresses, the dynamics and intensity build, creating a sense of tension and release. Overall, this arrangement of Debussy's Reverie is a beautiful and unique interpretation of the original piano piece.
Arranged for standard Wind Band instrumentation with addition of harp & alto flute.
O Little town of bethlehem
O Little town of bethlehem
By Phillips Brooks & Lewis Redner
Once known as "St. Louis," this classic holiday tune has been a fan favorite for years. Here, we've spiced things up with a fresh and modern take on the melody, giving you just a taste of the cherished tune you know and love.
Arranged for standard jazz big band and conga drums.
Recording is performed by Parker's Lab Band at Deck the Chairs in Jacksonville Beach, FL
All I Ask
All I Ask
By Adele
One of Adele's best hits arranged for big band. This is a great ballad for a high school or college group, requring suddlety and maturity.
The opening starts with soft flugelhorn and saxes and it builds to a great dramatic moment.
Arranged for standard jazz band with flugelhorn and voice.
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