John Wasson
Showing 1–24 of 48 results
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Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays
Few holiday songs have the staying power and popularity of this familiar tune, known primarily from the recordings by Perry Como in the 1950s, but also the Carpenters in 1984. Here is a lush and easy-flowing bossa nova setting sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Solos are included for alto sax and flugelhorn.SKU: HL07013466 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Africa
Originally a #1 hit for Toto in the early ’80s, and recorded again recently by the group Weezer, this powerful rock anthem features a distinctive groove and memorable lines. John Wasson has given it a contemporary spin while maintaining the feel and drive of the original.SKU: HL07013308 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Backatown
From Trombone Shorty’s acclaimed CD Backatown, here is the hot title cut arranged for big band in a funky medium tempo. With a blend of catchy riffs, solid ensemble passages, and stop-time breaks, this chart exudes a spirited and unmistakable New Orleans swagger.SKU: HL7012439 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Billie’s Bounce
Here’s an energetic big band treatment of one of jazz legend Charlie Parker’s best-known tunes. John Wasson’s wonderfully crafted medium up-tempo swing chart features an interplay between the sax and brass sections, along with solos for alto sax and trumpet. Much of ensemble writing is adapted from Bird’s famous recorded solo.SKU: HL07013536 -
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Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Buckjump
Recorded by Trombone Shorty on his 2011 album For True and featuring Rebirth Brass Band and 5th Ward Weebie, this hot tune has a funky New Orleans style groove with a moderate tempo and catchy riffs. The trombones get the spotlight to start with, followed by tight ensemble playing and later space for a trombone soloist.SKU: HL7012700 -
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Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Caravan
This ‘barn burner’ by outstanding arranger John Wasson was recorded by the very hot Jim Widner Big Band for his commercially available CD Body and Soul on the Chase Music Group label. Pure Latin fire from start to finish, this difficult chart will have your students begging to practice. With the opportunity for an extended alto sax solo, this Rolls Royce of an arrangement is definitely top-notch! This excerpt recording is courtesy of Chase Music Group. (2:08)
SKU: ALJE9805 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Compared To What
Composed by Gene McDaniels in the ’60s, this soulful funk tune has been recorded by a number of artists, notably Les McCann & Eddie Harris, Ray Charles, and Al Jarreau. John Wasson’s version for big band features a churning groove and nice interplay between various sections of the band. Suggested soloist is alto sax, but the solo section can be adapted for any instrument.SKU: HL7013058 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Dancing in the Street
Recorded in 1964 by Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, this moderate tempo rock hit became a signature tune of the Motown sound. John Wasson’s soulful version for jazz ensemble stays true to the original feel while adding a bit of contemporary flare.SKU: HL7011939 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Day Tripper
Featuring one of the most recognizable bass riffs recorded by the Beatles, John Wasson brings us a fresh and creative setting for young jazz groups. With a hint of Latin style and smooth harmonies, this is sure to be an attractive addition to any program.SKU: HL7012235 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Estate
Although originally an Italian song composed in 1960, Estate has become a jazz standard thanks in part to the Bossa nova version recorded by Joao Gilberto. This smooth version for younger players features a lyric style of playing and a medium-tempo Bossa style.SKU: HL7013190 -
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Fireflies
Attaining worldwide popularity, and describing “a thousand hugs from ten thousand lightning bugs,” this is the first #1 hit by recording sensation Owl City. John Wasson’s setting for band captures the magic of the original and is sure to be a hit.SKU: HL04001259 -
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Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 5
Groovin’ High
Written for and recorded by the U.S. Air Force Airmen of Note, Joe Jackson director, John Wasson has created a stunning and unique setting of this long-standing jazz classic. The chart is filled with twists and turns, blazing ensemble passages and also features solo space for two alto saxes (optional alto sax and trumpet). For the mature band, here is a real showstopper.SKU: HL7011698 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Hard to Handle
Originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1968, this hard-drving R&B classic has become a mainstay of pop culture covered by a wide range of artists including The Black Crowes, King Floyd, and The Grateful Dead. John Wasson’s updated version features the signature horn licks, powerful scoring, and solo for tenor sax.SKU: HL7012225 -
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Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 4
Hurricane Season
From the Trombone Shorty CD Backatown, this tune features the powerful underlying pulse of a New Orleans “second line” feel. In this exciting arrangement, the ensemble alternately screams with the full band riffs, then settles into a simmering rhythmic groove. Sure to be a treat to perform!SKU: HL7012457
