Jazz Kings

Description

Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F, Trombone, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Bells, Vibraphone, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Percussion 2, Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbal, Percussion 3, Triangle, Wood Block — Holiday music abounds with unique treatments and settings of carols and songs in many different styles. One of the challenges of creating a new and unique setting of just one of those songs is infusing a distinct style that enhances the original. Jazz stylings can be found on any number of pieces in the holiday canon. I especially thankful for my time with Chaz Baker at Kent State University who enhanced my knowledge and opened my ears to a new way to listen to jazz. As I thought about setting the carol We Three Kings, my mind immediately connected to two artists who could be considered jazz “royalty”: Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Shades of It Don’t Mean a Thing and One o’ Clock Jump emerge around the carol tune as it moves between sections of 4/4 and 3/4 time. The work has a threefold purpose for students: 1) to familiarize them with well-known carols, 2) to give them experience playing in a jazz style, and 3) to connect them to two artists that are essential to American music and jazz. I hope your holiday concert swings into style as you perform Jazz Kings! This jazz styling of the popular holiday carol "We Three Kings" offers a tribute to artists who are considered jazz royalty: Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Shades of “It Don’t Mean a Thing” and “One O’Clock Jump” emerge around the carol tune as it moves between sections of 4/4 and 3/4 time. Introduce students to playing in jazz style with this fun take on a holiday classic!