Jazz Ensemble Jazz Ensemble - Level 5 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1517512

By New South Jazz Orchestra. By Shane Porter. Contest,Festival,Instructional,Jazz,Thriller. 121 pages. New South Music #1091669. Published by New South Music (A0.1517512).

Harlem Chaser is an electrifying tribute to Duke Ellington's iconic Harlem Suite, capturing the essence of its lush harmonies and rhythmic depth. The piece kicks off with the rhythm section, and an improvisation solo on guitar (or piano). As the saxophones introduce the vibrant melody, the brass section layers in with intricate harmonies and syncopated rhythms that build the complexity.

The excitement continues as the trombones bring in the counter-melody, leading into solo opportunities for the lead alto followed by the trumpet. Each member of the ensemble is immersed in rhythmic challenges that push their musicianship, with rhythms that weave in and out, sometimes offset by as little as an eighth note, adding to the musical tension.

Full of unexpected rhythmic twists, simple unison lines to thick harmonies, Harlem Chaser demands full commitment to its Believe It! philosophy. It crescendos to a thrilling Buddy Rich-style finale, making it a perfect opener or closer for any concert or competition. Whether it's the musicians or the audience, the infectious energy of this chart is sure to grab everyone from the first note to the last!

(The original recording does not have a piano part, however, one is included. There are also some simple voicing “suggestions” in the chord chart).