Jazz Ensemble Jazz Ensemble - Level 2 - Digital Download
SKU: A0.1371340
By Buddy Morrlow. By Jimmy Forrest, Lewis C. Simpkins, and Oscar Washington. Arranged by Paul Lichty. Blues,Jazz. 52 pages. Paul Lichty Music #955551. Published by Paul Lichty Music (A0.1371340).
Thank you for considering this arrangement! The catchy melody and triplet feel will provide many opportunities for growth in your developing jazz ensemble.
Listening to recordings of the tune is a must for emulating the style of the piece. Two good reference recordings are found on the following albums:
Night Train - Jimmy Forrest
Grey's Mood Al Grey (w/ Jimmy Forrest)
There's also a terrific Youtube video of Jimmy Forrest performing it with the Count Basie Orchestra.
This chart can be done with the following instrumentation: Altos 1 + 2, Tenor 1, Bari, Trumpets 1-2, Trombones 1-2, Piano, Bass, and Drums. If you'd like me to make parts for other instruments (flute, horn, etc.), please reach out to me.
I couldn't think of too many blues heads that'd be able to teach two essential jazz concepts (the blues and slow swing feel) that would be as catchy and as fun as Night Train. Your kids will be playing this tune a lot in the band room!
Whenever chord symbols are present, bass players can make up their own bass lines and guitarists/pianists their own voicings. This chart's slow tempo and familiar harmonic structure can provide young players with a bridge to developing their own improvised bass lines and comping skills.
The plunger work in the beginning is fun, but not required (in case you don't trust middle school students with plungers :))
If your rhythm section players need easier or harder parts, let me know and I'm happy to provide.
Feel free to add additional soloists if desired. The trombone solo can be repeated for additional soloists.
Enjoy Night Train!
