Edition: Jazz Big Band Arrangement

Description: Swing - Medium

Publisher: Walrus Music Publishing

As a band leader who is tasked with putting together the program/set list/concert I’ve always felt the need for charts that fill a certain gap in programming. We all like to open and close our set with a 'barn burner.' We also try to insert a ballad toward the middle of the set to change it up. This leaves 'the gap' in our program that really needs to be filled with charts that are NOT barn burners or ballads but rather medium to up-tempo charts that engage the audience in such a way as to create interest as well as deliver big applause!

I've discovered that a well-crafted 'story' creates a context for the music that allows the listener to engage in the piece and clearly be able to visualize the 'story' as the music unfolds. I also believe that if the 'story' contains a little humor, it becomes even more effective and engaging. This then is my reasoning for providing you with a solid story to be told as an intro prior to playing 'The Last Ride of the Riltney Rangers.'

'The Last Ride of the Riltney Rangers' – The Story:
In the wild, wild west during the late 1800s, a remote fort is being shut down by the US Army. The cavalry troop stationed there has been through “thick and thin” together, battling side by side for a very long time. The troopers decide that, before they split up, each going their own way, they should ride out to their favorite campsite located just up and over the hills surrounding the fort, set up shop around the campfire, and have one final party…for old times’ sake. This results in the telling of old stories and reminiscing about many of their great adventures…supported, of course, by a lot of embellishment, exaggeration, laughter and outright lying.

As the party runs its course, the troop realizes it’s time to 'call it a day (AND a night)' and, with heavy hearts, ride off into the sunset with yet another story to embellish further for their children and their children's children!

Full Score
2 Alto Saxophones
2 Tenor Saxophones
Baritone Saxophone
4 Trumpets
4 Trombones
Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drums