Am I Blue (M.Barone)

Ignite your big band with Mike Barone's stunning arrangement of the jazz standard "Am I Blue." This sophisticated big band chart, spanning 101 pages with individual parts for Alto Saxophone (2), Tenor Saxophone (2), Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet (4), Trombone (4), Piano, Bass, and Drums, delivers a classic standard with a fresh, contemporary feel. Barone's masterful scoring provides rich, modern jazz harmonies and exciting voicings, characteristic of his distinctive West Coast jazz style. The arrangement maintains a medium swing tempo feel throughout, allowing for a relaxed yet driving rhythmic foundation. Expect intricate ensemble passages showcasing Barone's signature counterpoint, punctuated by dynamic contrasts ranging from intimate piano voicings to powerful full-band shouts. Solo sections are strategically placed, offering ample opportunity for improvisational prowess from your lead soloists, typically over a clear, harmonically supportive background. Originally composed by Harry Akst (music) and Grant Clarke (lyrics) in 1929 for the film "On with the Show!", "Am I Blue" quickly became a beloved standard, recorded by countless jazz and blues vocalists and instrumentalists.