»MUS 317B Jazz Arranging II

Course objective:
To study traditional arranging techniques relating to the big-band or large jazz ensemble. We will analyze the writing styles of Sammy Nestico, Thad Jones, Bob Brookmeyer, and various contemporary arrangers. Students will arrange and copy parts for two entire "big band" charts.

Text:
"Inside the Score" by Rayburn Wright - published by Kendor Music

Topics to be covered:
1. Sammy Nestico/Basie style (4- way close)
2. Brass Voicings "pads" and harmonizing lines
3. Thad Jones Style: Drop 2, clusters, reharmonization
4. Bob Brookmeyer
5. Maria Schneider
6. Porgy and Bess /Gil Evans
7. Matt Harris: Limehouse Blues, Inside Out, Body and Soul, Los Brujos, Call Back

Grading components:
Homework, including weekly assignments and deadlines - 20%
"Basie" Style Big Band Chart - 30%
Second Big Band Chart - 30%
Final cumulative written exam - 20%

Assignments are due on the date assigned. No exceptions. Late assignments will be given an automatic "F" grade.

Attendance policy:
Grade will be lowered 1/3 for every class missed over 10% of the total number of classes. 3 missed classes are allowed before your grade will be affected. Class begins precisely at the top of the hour!

Basie Style Chart Instrumentation:
2 Alto Sax, 2 Tenor Sax, 1 Bari Sax
4 Trombones (including 1 bass trombone)
4 Trumpets
Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar

Form of tune must be a Blues!!
1. Intro: rhythm section? full band?
2. melody: a. first time unison and /or octaves b. second time, saxes harmonized with unison counter line in brass or brass punches.
3. Solo Section: a. "riff" backgrounds in unison or octaves b. add brass punches or countermelody or harmonize the original "riff"
4. Shout Section: Tutti ensemble.....BIG!!
5. Melody Section and ending

Concert Score!! (much prefer hand written instead of Finale*) Bar numbers need to be on score and parts Articulations and dynamics must be on score and parts. rhythm parts must be accurate on score.

Copying:
All parts must be copied legibly! No exceptions! Professional Copyist: Dave Cushman 818.996.9527 He charges approximately $3.50/page.

Deadlines:
1. harmonized sketch of the melody
2. melody and background sections on score paper
3. shout section harmonized on score paper
4. completed score due
5. "A" band plays charts 4-6PM (all parts must be copied)

* No credit will be given if score is incomplete. You are responsible to have a working computer and printer if you decide to use Finale. No excuses!! In other words, running out of paper, printer or ink problems, the electricity goes out, or "my baby brother deleted my files" are not acceptable excuses.

Bass
Drums
Guitar
Percussion (optional) includes hand percussion, vibes, xylo, marimba, timp, glock.