Blues Plus Four (C.Strommen)

C. Strommen's "Blues Plus Four" is an advanced big band arrangement of a classic jazz standard, offering a sophisticated and energetic showcase for professional and advanced educational ensembles. This arrangement, encompassing 53 pages of meticulously prepared sheet music, presents a dynamic blues-infused chart with a driving swing feel, characteristic of the genre's enduring appeal. While the original composer remains unknown, Strommen's arrangement breathes new life into the piece, emphasizing a rich harmonic palette and intricate rhythmic interplay. The arrangement features clearly defined ensemble passages that demand precision and tight synchronization from the full instrumentation, which includes Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 1 & 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1-4, Trombone 1-3, Bass Trombone, Guitar, Piano, Bass, and Drums. This comprehensive instrumentation allows for a full, resonant sound, ideal for concert halls, jazz festivals, and professional gigs where a high-level big band performance is desired.