A practical and helpful how-to book designed to answer thousands of questions that face jazz ensemble directors every day. Author John Berry draws on over thirty years of experience as a director and writer to pass on tips and tricks, mostly learned the hard way. The book is written with a concise, easy-to-read style, and answers basic questions about real-life situations such as: teaching jazz styles, improvisation, leading and conducting, and using technology. The twenty-three chapters cover information about the saxes trumpets, trombones and a comprehensive treatment of the rhythm section. Among the other topics are sound engineers, clinicians, live performances and '12 Ways To Have A Better Band...Almost Instantly!'.