All Things Old And New (B.Liston)

Brimming with sophisticated harmonic colors and infectious rhythmic vitality, "All Things Old And New" stands as a masterclass in modern big band writing by acclaimed composer and arranger Bill Liston. Conceived in the rich lineage of contemporary jazz composition, the work bridges the gap between classic swing-era sensibilities and the harmonically adventurous landscape of modern large-ensemble jazz. Liston, celebrated for his extensive work in both commercial recording studios and elite jazz contexts, infuses the composition with a dynamic architectural framework that keeps both performers and audiences thoroughly engaged from the first downbeat to the final chord. Stylistically anchored in a driving, energetic medium-up swing feel set in 4/4 time, the piece opens with an inviting, conversational motif before expanding into expansive, textured ensemble passages. The mood shifts fluidly between introspective, lushly voiced harmonic plateaus and high-octane, rhythmically complex unison shout choruses. Liston employs rich extended and altered chord voicings across the brass and saxophones, creating a warm, contemporary big band texture reminiscent of the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra or Bob Mintzer styles. The arrangement explores sophisticated key centers and clever chromatic mediant modulations, giving the work a sophisticated edge while maintaining an organic, swinging momentum. Melodic distribution is thoughtfully balanced across the entire 17-piece ensemble, ensuring that every section shares the spotlight. The woodwind section—featuring two altos, two tenors, and baritone saxophone—is heavily utilized for intricate, interlocking soli lines that demand nimble fingerwork and crisp articulation. Brass writing features soaring trumpet lines that peak tastefully without descending into sheer endurance tests, alongside trombone voicings that provide a robust, warm foundation. Open solo sections are strategically integrated to showcase improvisational talent within the band, supported by a rhythm section part that encourages interactive comping and dynamic shading. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles will find this chart to be an exceptionally rewarding addition to their repertoire. The work demands a high level of stylistic cohesion, particularly in achieving a unified swing eighth-note interpretation at a driving tempo. Section leaders must pay close attention to dynamic contrast, subtle rubato-to-tempo transitions, and precise balance within the dense chordal structures. For groups looking to challenge their technical facility while delivering a performance of high artistic merit, Liston’s arrangement offers a masterclass in contemporary big band phrasing, balance, and groove. Navigating "All Things Old And New" successfully requires meticulous attention to articulation and stylistic uniformity across all sections. The tempo should be established with a steady, driving pulse from the rhythm section, avoiding any tendency to rush the syncopated figures. Horn players must execute standard jazz articulations—accenting the off-beats and keeping short notes crisp and detached—to ensure the swing feel remains buoyant and transparent. The saxophones should approach their soli sections with a unified concept of tone, blending the two altos and tenors to achieve a smooth, homogenous sound while allowing the baritone to anchor the bottom. Brass players should utilize warm, centered tones rather than forced, brassy volumes during the dense harmonic climaxes, reserving maximum dynamic output for the primary shout choruses. Conductors should rehearse the rhythm section independently first, ensuring the piano and guitar voicings do not clash with the horn chord structures. Pay close attention to dynamic markings under the improvised solo sections to ensure the soloist maintains a conversational dialogue with the backing ensemble without straining for volume. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this publication? A: This complete big band arrangement includes a full 100-page conductor score and parts for the standard 17-instrument instrumentation: Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This piece is best suited for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles. It requires strong section reading skills, precise rhythmic coordination, and familiarity with extended modern jazz harmonies and medium-up swing tempos. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of the piece? A: Written by Bill Liston, the piece is a contemporary jazz composition set in the tradition of modern big band writing. It blends traditional swing elements with sophisticated, modern harmonic voicings and intricate ensemble textures. Q: What makes this arrangement unique? A: Liston’s arrangement stands out due to its seamless integration of lush, chromatic harmony with high-energy swing sections, offering an equal distribution of challenging soli lines and dynamic shout choruses across all instrument sections. Q: What is the recommended performance duration and tempo feel? A: The piece is designed as a driving medium-up swing chart with a performance duration of approximately 5 to 6 minutes, depending on the length of the open improvised solo sections and the chosen tempo.