Old Stuff (T.Faure)

Rooted in the rich, sophisticated soil of modern contemporary jazz composition, "Old Stuff" by T. Faure captures the nostalgic warmth and harmonic complexity of mid-century modal jazz while infusing a fresh, contemporary big band sensibility. While drawing stylistic lineage from the post-bop movement pioneered by giants like Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock, Faure’s original work functions as a masterclass in balancing retrospective harmonic palettes with forward-moving rhythmic propulsion. The piece has quickly gained traction among forward-thinking ensembles looking for repertoire that bridges traditional swing aesthetics with modern European jazz sensibilities, celebrating the timelessness of acoustic jazz composition in the 21st century. Musically, "Old Stuff" opens with a sultry, contemplative medium-slow swing feel in 4/4 time, anchored by a walking bassline and subtle cymbal work before expanding into a rich, texturally dense landscape. The harmonic framework relies heavily on extended tertian chords, altered dominants, and subtle modal shifts that evoke a bittersweet, reflective mood. The emotional trajectory shifts dynamically from introspective melancholy in the introductory and verse statements to an explosive, brass-heavy release during the main developmental sections. The voicings favor open fourths and clustered upper-structure triads, creating a lush, modern wall of sound that challenges the traditional closed-position block-chord paradigm typical of older big band writing. T. Faure’s arrangement showcases a meticulous approach to orchestration, utilizing the 18-instrument big band lineup as a flexible, chamber-like unit rather than a monolithic wall of volume. The soprano and alto saxophones frequently carry the primary thematic material, often doubled at the octave to project a piercing, lyrical quality over the dense brass background. A standout feature of the arrangement is an intricately written sax soli that pays homage to the classic Benny Carter and Frank Foster writing traditions, yet incorporates modern chromatic approaches. The shout chorus builds methodically, driven by cross-rhythms in the rhythm section and soaring high-note extensions in the lead trumpet chair, before dissolving gracefully back into the intimate mood of the head. Designed with advanced high school, collegiate, and professional-level jazz orchestras in mind, this chart demands tight ensemble phrasing, precise intonation on complex altered dominants, and a mature sense of swing subdivision. Featured solo space is provided for tenor saxophone and piano, allowing improvisers to stretch out over sophisticated harmonic changes that move beyond standard blues or rhythm changes. The 18-page conductor score provides crystal-clear articulation and dynamic markings, making it an exceptionally rewarding centerpiece for festival programs, formal concerts, and advanced studio recordings. Conductors approaching "Old Stuff" should prioritize a relaxed, behind-the-beat swing eighth-note feel, avoiding any tendency to rush the medium-slow tempo. The primary technical challenge lies in the execution of the dense harmonic voicings; sectional blend and intonation require careful listening, particularly when the saxophones and muted brass interlock in close intervals. Rhythm section players must treat their parts with a high degree of interactive sensitivity—the pianist should voice chords sparsely using rootless structures, leaving ample room for the horns, while the drummer maintains a crisp, feather-light ride cymbal pattern with crisp hi-hat chicks on beats two and four. Brass players should utilize cup mutes or harmon mutes (stem out) where indicated to achieve the desired textural warmth during the background figures. During rehearsals, isolate the sax soli to work on articulation uniformity and dynamic contouring before integrating the rhythm section. Pay close attention to the dynamic swells leading into the shout chorus to ensure the ensemble peaks at the designated measure without forcing tone quality. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this big band arrangement? A: The 18-instrument instrumentation includes Soprano Saxophone, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, a full brass section, and a complete rhythm section, alongside a comprehensive 18-page conductor score. Q: What is the difficulty level of "Old Stuff"? A: This arrangement is rated as advanced, making it best suited for collegiate jazz ensembles, professional big bands, and top-tier high school jazz orchestras with strong section players and mature improvisers. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of the piece? A: Composed by T. Faure, "Old Stuff" is a contemporary jazz standard that blends the harmonic sophistication of post-bop modal jazz with the classic ensemble traditions of traditional big band writing. Q: What makes this arrangement by T. Faure unique? A: It stands out for its modern European jazz harmonic voicings, an intricate saxophone soli that bridges classic and contemporary styles, and its chamber-like orchestration that treats the 18-piece ensemble with dynamic transparency. Q: What is the performance duration and tempo feel of the arrangement? A: The piece features a relaxed, medium-slow swing tempo in 4/4 time, with a total performance duration averaging around 5 to 6 minutes depending on the length of the improvised solos.