Play By Play (T.Kubis)

Tom Kubis has long been celebrated as one of the most inventive and swinging architects of modern big band writing, and "Play By Play" stands as a masterclass in his signature compositional style. Emerging from the vibrant West Coast jazz tradition that prizes pristine section interplay, razor-sharp articulation, and irrepressible good-humored energy, this chart exemplifies the polished yet high-octane craft that Kubis honed through decades of writing for premier studio musicians and elite university jazz ensembles. It represents a golden era of contemporary big band writing where intricate bebop-infused lines seamlessly coexist with accessible, toe-tapping swing grooves. Driven by an infectious, bright medium-up swing feel in 4/4 time, "Play By Play" radiates an atmosphere of spirited athleticism and joyful sophistication. The mood is relentlessly upbeat, characterized by cascading developmental motifs, sparkling harmonic textures, and a driving rhythmic momentum that keeps both performers and listeners on the edge of their seats. The harmonic language relies on rich extended and altered chords—typical of Kubis’s pen—that provide a lush sonic backdrop without ever sacrificing the forward propulsion of the swing beat. The interplay between the rhythm section and the horns creates a dynamic dialog that shifts effortlessly from whisper-light background figures to thunderous, brass-heavy punctuations. True to form, Kubis constructs the arrangement with a brilliant architectural flow, utilizing clever metric modulations, interlocking sax solis, and tightly-knit brass counterlines that showcase the entire ensemble. The melody is introduced with snappy precision, frequently traded or doubled between the alto saxophones and the upper trumpets, establishing an immediate sense of urgency and style. Solo opportunities are provided for key chair holders—typically custom-tailored to feature a fluid tenor saxophone or a bright, articulate trumpet—allowing featured improvisers to stretch out over changes that brilliantly mirror the composition's overarching thematic material. The eventual shout chorus is a textbook study in big band pacing, building tension incrementally through rhythmic syncopation before opening up into a full-throated, roof-raising climax. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands will find "Play By Play" to be an exceptionally rewarding centerpiece for festival performances or concert programming. While the chart demands a high degree of technical proficiency—particularly regarding clean articulation, precise section blend, and an agile rhythm section capable of driving a bright swing tempo—its internal logic makes the notes fall naturally under the fingers once the style is locked in. It is an ideal vehicle for developing a modern swing feel, teaching section unity, and injecting an undeniable dose of West Coast brilliance into any advanced jazz ensemble's repertoire. Unlocking the vibrant energy of "Play By Play" requires absolute precision from the rhythm section, particularly the drummer, who must maintain a buoyant, driving ride cymbal pattern without overplaying the fills. The tempo should feel urgent yet relaxed—never rushed—allowing the eighth-note lines to swing naturally. Horn sections must prioritize crisp, lightweight articulation on short notes; avoid heavy accents unless specifically indicated by Kubis's dynamic markings. Pay close attention to the dynamic contrasts between the background figures and the featured soloists, ensuring the ensemble drops dynamically to let the solo lines breathe. Stylistic unity on the falls and doits is essential to capture the authentic West Coast big band aesthetic, so rehearse these effects section-by-section to achieve a unified release. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this 52-page arrangement? A: The complete 17-instrument big band instrumentation features Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, and a full rhythm section comprising piano, guitar, bass, and drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of Tom Kubis's "Play By Play"? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced, making it best suited for accomplished college, professional, and elite high school jazz bands that possess strong technical command and solid reading skills. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of this piece? A: Written by renowned West Coast arranger and composer Tom Kubis, the piece is set in the contemporary big band jazz style, combining traditional swing drive with modern, sophisticated harmonic extensions. Q: What makes this specific arrangement unique within big band repertoire? A: Its uniqueness lies in Kubis's signature writing style, which features intricate yet catchy melodic lines, clever conversational phrasing between the sections, and an impeccably paced shout chorus that guarantees high audience engagement. Q: What is the approximate performance duration and tempo feel of the chart? A: While duration varies slightly based on improvised solo choruses, the chart is designed as a bright, high-energy medium-up swing tune that typically clocks in around 3.5 to 4.5 minutes.