Edition: Jazz Studio Orchestra Arrangement

Description: Bossa Nova - Medium

Publisher: Jazz Lines Publications

It's a bit surprising that Antonio Carlos Jobim's The Red Blouse has not become one of the better-known entries in his vast song catalogue. Its rich harmonic palate and simple but highly memorable melody ranks up there with the bossa nova maestro's best, and Claus Ogerman's arrangement for Jobim's 1967 album Wave creates an appropriately lovely setting.

The base tune has a highly unusual form - AABBCB - that is repeated in full two times. The first time features the rhythm section with the barest of string presences on the C section, with a little bit more complexity being added the second time with a simple line in the alto flutes and trombone. A shortened version of the form is then played to provide some solo opportunities. The entire ensemble only comes together for the ending, where the A section is repeated with a gradual fade out for an ending.

On the original recording, there was a lengthy cut made, likely to save time. This cut has been indicated in the publication to allow your ensemble to play this piece either the way it was on the recording, or the way it was originally written. For solos, the original recording features Jobim on piano, however the score has solos written for trombone and flute instead. Chord changes have been provided for these two instruments if you would like to feature them.

This publication was based on the Claus Ogerman pencil score; however, the guitar and piano voicings have been transcribed as they are integral to the arrangement.

 

 

Full Score
Woodwind 1: Alto Flute/Piccolo
Woodwind 2: Alto Flute/C Flute
Woodwind 3: Alto Flute
Trombone
Violin (12)
Nylon String Guitar
Piano
Acoustic Bass
Drum Set