Jazz Ensemble Grade: 6

In the style of Nestico and Basie, this medium swing chart is full of nuances. Includes solo space for all saxes, trumpet 4, and trombone 1. At 110 BPM, this is truly a wonderful chart that will satisfy any mature band, as recorded by the Big Phat Band. (4:30)

It’s a jazz-reggae groove composed and arranged by Gordon Goodwin for the Big Phat Band. Lead alto sax is written for soprano sax, and solos are available for soprano, alto, tenor, trumpet and trombone. Floating Home is not technically difficult but the lead trumpet range is a challenge, as you would expect with Gordon’s charts. This is a somewhat mellow chart but has energy and punches. As performed by the Big Phat Band. (1:27)

Latin music should be a part of every band’s repertoire. You’ll love the fire and rhythmic emphasis of Gordon Goodwin’s Garaje Gato, as well as the harmonic and melodic richness. With half note = 108 BPM, solo space is included for all saxes, trumpet 3, and trombone 1, plus Latin percussion parts. As recorded by the Big Phat Band. Plenty of excitement! (6:51)

As recorded by the Big Phat Band on the CD That’s How We Roll, this swing chart features the trombone section. It’s not crazy hard to play, but will require some endurance from the ‘bones. Solo changes provided for trombones 1 and 2, alto, tenor, bari, and trumpet 4. Lead trumpet hits a high G but otherwise it’s not too demanding.