Jazz Charts with Reduced Instrumentation

You know it, you love it! The opening motive is very catchy on this authentic sounding chart on the rock classic made famous by the group Chicago. Master arranger Mike Story works his magic to create an

Written by the songwriting duo of Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson and made famous by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, this chart features a nice mix of scoring from full ensemble tuttis to short section

This swing original for beginning groups is based on the chord changes to Autumn Leaves. The brass ranges are very accessible with trumpet up to F5 and D-flat4 for trombone. Rhythm section parts

Paul Murtha's take on Meghan Trainor's smash hit features a catchy melody, a strong rhythmic pulse, hand claps, fun instrumental effects, and a hint of doo-wop. Arranged here in an easy setting for younger

Mariah Carey's holiday hit remains a favorite year after year, and in the hands of Rick Stitzel, this medium swing chart features easy rhythms and reduced ranges for young players. Playable with optional

One of the iconic early hits by the Beatles, this catchy tune features an immediately recognizable melody and a driving swing/shuffle style. Included in this version for young players is the famous

Featured in the movie "Shrek," this familiar hit by Smash Mouth has become an enduring part of pop culture. This arrangement for young players features the melody passed from section to section, and the

As one of the most important American music forms, the blues is an essential concept for developing students who are learning about jazz improvisation and ensemble playing. This easy-level swinger has it

One of the iconic tunes from the swing era, this enduring standard has been recorded by countless artists ranging from Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra, to

This very playable chart is a bluesy, swinging excursion in G minor. Lots of tutti rhythms in the winds make this an excellent choice for a young ensemble just starting on the jazz path. There are solos for

Journey made this a hit in 1980 and the cast of Glee did it again in 2010. This solid chart is built on a driving eighth-note pulse and requires no solos. Sure to sound great with limited rehearsal time, it

Originally recorded in 1961 by Jorgen Ingmann, but better known for the 1981 recording by The Sugarhill Gang, this funky hit remains a favorite. Feature your drummer or an additional percussionist (bongos,

Made famous by The Count Basie Orchestra, here is a great-sounding yet playable version of this standard for developing bands. It includes feature spots for every section and optional written or improvised

Around the Bend, with its solid rock feel coupled with blues changes, will make younger players feel comfortable and right at home. With the rhythm section and bari sax setting the groove, it

Here's a great vehicle for teaching your younger jazz ensemble how to swing. Originally a blues tune from 1919, this familiar song has become an often recorded jazz standard. John Berry's updated version

Don't miss this swinging, shuffle blues chart for developing groups that cooks right off the top! Set at about 132 bpm, it features a full and hot saxophone section soli, a stop-time section leading

It's time for another musical journey through Miami's Little Havana as provided by Jeff Jarvis. This medium-easy level original scored in cha-cha style showcases authentic, yet accessible rhythms and

Young players will have a blast with this dynamic yet easy version of this huge hit by Lady Gaga. The trombones state the distinctive riff theme, and later the sax section trades statements with the brass

Learning music in the style of the great Count Basie Band is an essential experience for any jazz musician. This accessible chart is a swinging original featuring many of the components so

The great Count Basie was the master at short solo fills that were beautifully crafted musical statements. Feature your piano player on this easy medium swing chart in the Basie style. All piano fills are

Great scoring and a solid melody make this straight-ahead swing chart a great choice for younger bands. The minor harmonies provide an easy entry into the world of improvisation. With its flexible scoring,