Dear Old Nebraska U (E.Richards)

Elevate your big band’s repertoire with Eric Richards’ dynamic jazz arrangement of "Dear Old Nebraska U." This 46-page chart breathes new life into the beloved melody, transforming it into a sophisticated swing piece that is both vibrant and engaging. Richards’ masterful scoring for a standard big band instrumentation—featuring five saxophones (two alto, two tenor, one baritone), four trumpets, four trombones (three tenor, one bass), piano, bass, and drums—showcases rich voicings and expertly crafted harmonies. The arrangement maintains a medium difficulty, making it accessible for collegiate jazz ensembles and advanced high school groups, while still offering enough challenge and musical interest for professional big bands. Its uplifting and celebratory feel makes it an ideal selection for university concerts, alumni events, or any performance seeking a spirited and polished jazz standard. Richards injects a contemporary jazz sensibility into the original tune, characterized by a driving swing feel and modern harmonic language.