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Bart Marantz NPR/KERA Jazz Education Interview    Click below to listen to the interview  Click below to read the article 
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 Reviews "Groovin’ High" Composed By: Dizzy Gillespie Arranged By : Mark Taylor Instrumentation: Big Band Publisher: Jenson Publications Grade: 6 Samba = 100 From the pen of Mark Taylor comes a very challenging and exciting arrangement of Dizzy Gillespie’s standard, ”Groovin’ High”. Offered from Jenson publications, this arrangement is part of the “professional series” and should only be considered by big bands of the highest quality. From the very start of this high powered orchestration the entire ensemble is engaged in performance. The tempo is up and the figures written for all sections are challenging, to say the least. After the intro. and statement of the melody the sax section is very involved in an industrious soli starting at measure 49. Be sure your saxes are willing to put in the “time on task” it will take to perfect this gem. With diligent practice the results will be long lasting and worth the effort. Solos are open to the discretion of the director with backgrounds cued for each soloist. The shout chorus starting at measure 129 is an ambitious screamer. This “professional series” chart is just that and should be played only if you have a very solid lead alto, lead trumpet and lead trombone with a sound-supporting rhythm section. Mark Taylor has written a wonderful arrangement for big band, but he takes no prisoners with this chart. If you have the horses to pull this wonderful arrangement off then make it your last piece on your next concert. Both the band and the audience will be glad you did! Top note for trumpet is written G above high C. Marantz
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