Plug ‘n Play – Full Score

Description

Jeff Jarvis is well-known for his outstanding funk and rock compositions for advanced groups, and he has captured the intensity and groove of those pieces in this accessible chart. You will recognize Jeff’s distinctive harmonic language from the opening piano riff. This is a fun one!

Program Notes

“Plug ‘n Play” is an accessible original piece utilizing a variety of rhythmic figures commonly used in rock charts. This easy chart employs an infectious groove, a tuneful melody, and it is playable by as few as 9 players and expandable to full big band instrumentation (17 players). Although loaded with great learning material, the piece is simply fun to play and will leave bands and audiences whistling the melody. The Piano and Bass parts are fully notated with chord symbols provided. The Guitar part consists primarily of chord changes and slashes with a couple easy-to-hear unison passages with the Bass. This composer does not “write down” to developing bands; the technical demands are moderate, but the strong melodies and solid orchestration sound great when played by more experienced ensembles.

Rehearsal Suggestions

It is important to observe the metronome marking suggested. Observe all articulations and dynamic markings to give the piece a lively performance. Acoustic Piano works fine for this chart, but a keyboard will work equally well. I recommend staying close to the written Piano part during the verse sections, such as measures 1-32. For the remainder of the chart, Pianists with more experience should feel free to use their own voicings and comping rhythms. The solo sections have effective, yet simple chord progressions for players who elect to improvise their solos. For example, soloists assigned to the first open section at measure 57 can use a G Dorian scale for the first half and A Dorian scale for the second half. At measure 91, an F Mixolydian scale fits the entire progression. You’re sure to have fun rehearsing and performing this audience-pleasing chart!