JAZZ ENSEMBLE GRADEs 3-4
Grade 3
1-800-Got-Funk
(Grade 3)
A straight ahead, no-nonsense head, coupled with a Funk-a-licious groove will be the “way-coolest” chart your students will want to play again and again. Dig the awesome polychord-rich bridge, solos for alto sax and trombone, plus the hippest ensemble chorus this side of the international date line. So settle in and dial it up! Make 1-800-Got Funk! your next call!
Bob is NOT My Uncle!
(Grade 3)
Have you ever heard the phrase "Bob's your uncle" and wondered, Who's Bob? And why is he my uncle? Well, this high-energy funk tune takes that idea and runs with itstraight into a groove so deep, you might never climb out! This "Gut Bucket Funk" chart lays down a greasy, infectious groove from the very first note. The rhythm section sets the foundation with a heavy backbeat, locked-in bass line, and just the right amount of attitude. The piece shifts between bold, brassy statements and nimble, quick-moving lines, capturing the spirit of playful defiance. Solo sections for tenor sax and trumpet give space for players to stretch out and bring their own flavor to the mix, while the entire band gets in on the fun with tight, dynamic hits and unexpected twists. Whether you have an Uncle Bob or not, one thing is certainthis piece is all about fun, attitude, and a refusal to conform! So, hold on tight, lay it down funky, and remember Bob is definitely NOT my uncle! (Available exclusively from JW Pepper)
Hip Fingers
(Grade 3 - Medium)
(Pepper Editor’s Choice)
Available from JW Pepper. Click here to purchase.
This tune oozes cool!! An infectious theme repeats, unravels, and winds its way through the piece, picking up a little counterpoint on the way. Solos for trumpet and alto sax unfold somewhere amidst the hustle and bustle. A quick key change, a sax soli, and presto change-o, we’re back to the original head. All you can say at the end of this one is…Du-u-ude!
O Canada
(Grade 3)
Whoa dude, way cool. O Canada is now available for stage band. And check this out - there are four different arrangements in this one package, each in a different style. Included are a non-swing version, jazz waltz, medium swing, and finally a rock version, which just goes to show that there are many ways to say "we stand on guard for thee".
October Rain
(Grade 3)
This beautiful ballad features the ensemble and is truly a gem at this level. Lush harmony abounds and all the colors of the contemporary jazz ensemble are utilized. There is a short written Piano solo that leads into the subtle modulation.
Who Wants Gum
(Pepper Editor’s Choice)
(Grade 3) Available from JW Pepper.
Here’s a Jazz waltz your ensemble and audiences will really dig! Who Wants Gum? features a lilting melody, cool chord changes, and hip contrapuntal writing that creates a carefree sugarless sound. Alto Sax and Trumpet share the head, setting the stage for the alto player to stretch out a bit later. Throw in some sizzling ensemble moments and you’re all set. Lighthearted and engaging, this piece is sure to leave your audience smiling—no sugar needed!
Your Call is Important to Us
Gr. 3
Corporate hold music gone funky. Imagine corporate hold music that suddenly discovers a funk rhythm section. Your Call Is Important to Us combines catchy grooves, syncopated melodies, and a healthy dose of humour to create a musical experience inspired by one of life's most familiar frustrations. Driving bass lines, energetic ensemble figures, and opportunities for improvisation transform a mundane modern annoyance into a fun and engaging musical adventure. Whether listeners recall waiting on hold with a customer service department or simply enjoy the infectious groove, the piece offers a light-hearted reminder that sometimes the most ordinary experiences can provide unexpected musical inspiration. (Available exclusively from JW Pepper)
Grade 4
Fiesta
(Grade 4)
Fiesta means a party and that’s what this chart is all about. There are plenty of rhythmic party favours and counter-lines to enjoy including solos for tenor sax and trumpet as well as an ensemble section that will keep the neighbours up. So go ahead, invite everyone over and just partay!!
For Pete’s Sake
(Grade 4)
Packed with crisp horn punches, tight ensemble work, and burning solo sections, this piece is designed to push players to their limits while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. From the blues-infused lines to the unexpected twists in harmony and rhythm, this chart delivers an electrifying ride from start to finish. Whether it's a wailing sax soli, a roaring shout chorus, or a hard-grooving rhythm section, this chart is all about passion, power, and pure jazz energy. Buckle up and let it rip!