Now Is The Time (D.Barduhn)

Imbued with the sophisticated compositional framework and swinging momentum characteristic of writer-arranger Dave Barduhn, "Now Is The Time" stands as a captivating entry in contemporary big band literature. Emerging from a rich lineage of traditional jazz idioms combined with modern harmonic sensibilities, Barduhn's writing reflects his extensive pedigree working with legendary jazz luminaries and elite collegiate ensembles. This chart bridges classic swing era energy with advanced post-bop voicings, offering an engaging interpretation that honors the foundational roots of small-group bop vocabulary while expanding it across a full 18-piece big band canvas. Driven by an infectious, propelling medium-up swing feel in 4/4 time, the arrangement establishes an immediate sense of urgency and sophisticated cool. The prevailing mood is high-spirited and intellectually stimulating, shifting fluidly between understated, blues-infused grooves and explosive, brass-heavy climaxes. Barduhn crafts a dynamic landscape where interlocking rhythms and subtle harmonic tensions evoke the classic smoky atmosphere of mid-century jazz clubs, updated with crisp, contemporary articulation demands that keep modern players and audiences thoroughly captivated from the first downbeat to the final chord. Barduhn’s distinctive arranging approach shines through clever architectural pacing, utilizing tight saxophone solis, transparent rhythm section interplay, and masterfully voiced shout choruses that build organically. Rather than relying on static block-chord writing, the inner voices move with linear independence, creating rich extensions and altered dominant colors typical of Barduhn's signature style. The melodic weight is shared democratically across the ensemble; initial statements are cleanly introduced by the woodwind section before expanding outward to full-ensemble tutti passages that test the band's balance, intonation, and stylistic cohesion. Designed primarily for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles, this 44-page comprehensive package—complete with a detailed conductor score—offers substantial pedagogical and artistic rewards. Performers will encounter invigorating technical challenges, particularly in maintaining a light, driving swing eighth-note feel at brisk tempos, executing crisp articulation in the brass, and navigating sophisticated chord changes during featured solo sections. It serves as an exceptional centerpiece for festival programs, formal concert sets, or advanced sight-reading workshops, demanding precise ensemble unity while providing ample room for individual expression. To capture the authentic driving spirit of this chart, the conductor must first establish a confident, unhurried medium-up swing tempo where the quarter note feels anchored yet forward-moving. Pay close attention to the traditional jazz articulation paradigm: unaccented notes on beats 2 and 4 should be naturally emphasized, and all eighth notes must be swung consistently without devolving into triplets. The saxophones should approach their soli sections with a unified, lightweight concept, ensuring that dynamic swells match the brass counter-lines without forcing the tone. Brass players need to execute clean, clipped staccatos and controlled falls where indicated, avoiding aggressive overblowing in the upper registers during transitional shout choruses. Rehearsal should begin section by section, isolating the rhythm section to lock in the foundational comping patterns and walking bass line before layering in the horns. Emphasize balance during dense ensemble passages so that inner-voice harmonies emerge clearly beneath the primary melody. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This chart is scored for a standard 18-instrument big band instrumentation, featuring Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpets 1–4, Trombones 1–4, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums, and a comprehensive conductor score across 44 pages. Q: What is the difficulty level of this big band chart? A: This arrangement is calibrated for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles, requiring strong reading skills, stylistic versatility, and precise control over medium-up swing articulation. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of the piece? A: Written in the jazz big band style by acclaimed arranger Dave Barduhn, the piece draws on traditional swing and bop roots, filtering them through a contemporary compositional lens that emphasizes modern harmonic extensions and dynamic ensemble interplay. Q: What makes Dave Barduhn's arrangement unique? A: Barduhn's distinct craftsmanship shines through linear, independent inner-voice writing, transparent texture changes, sophisticated chord voicings, and thoughtfully paced shout choruses that elevate the piece beyond standard stock arrangements. Q: What is the performance duration and tempo feel of the arrangement? A: The piece is driven by a steady, energetic medium-up swing feel in 4/4 time, with a performance duration well-suited for festival adjudication sets or standard concert programming.