Blue Ridge Blues

Description

Commissioned by the South Carolina Band Directors Association for the 2026 SCBDA Middle School All State Jazz Band, this swing chart features great scoring and a solid melody making it a great choice for younger bands. The minor blues harmonies provide an easy entry into the world of improvisation and the ensemble writing gives everyone a chance to get in on the action. This one provides a wealth of teaching opportunities and will be a hit on any concert or festival program.

Program Notes

This chart offers a multitude of teaching opportunities. The rhythmic figures used are some of the most basic and important building blocks in the swing idiom. Also, the harmonic form is a minor blues making improvisation approachable for young players.