Plus Five (D.Bandman)

Dynamic modern writing and driving rhythmic momentum define this comprehensive big band chart of "Plus Five," conceived and arranged by D. Bandman. Emerging from the rich tradition of contemporary big band jazz, the composition balances intricate harmonic structures with an infectious, hard-swinging pulse that demands precision and stylistic cohesion from every section. The original thematic material serves as a launchpad for sophisticated reharmonizations and textural contrast, capturing the vitality of the modern studio and concert stage jazz idioms. From the opening downbeat, the arrangement establishes a vibrant medium-up swing tempo characterized by crisp articulation and interactive rhythm section backing. The harmonic palette utilizes extended and altered chords—sharp-ninths, flat-thirtheenths, and suspended voicings—that give the brass and saxophone sections a rich, contemporary bite reminiscent of modern west-coast and metropolitan big band writing. The mood shifts effortlessly from sultry, understated counterpoint to explosive, full-ensemble climaxes, evoking a sense of driving urban energy and sophisticated late-night cool. D. Bandman’s arranging style shines through in the meticulous voice-leading and clever interplay between the brass and reed families. The arrangement features a tightly knit saxophone soli that showcases unison blend and agile scalar movement, followed by a dynamic shout chorus that builds tension through cunning cross-rhythms and strategic dynamic drops. The lead trumpet part climbs into the upper register with purpose, while the trombone section acts as a sturdy harmonic anchor, frequently utilizing shaded slurs and warm open-horn timbres to colour the background figures. Open solo sections are strategically integrated over accessible jazz standard changes, allowing featured performers on horns or piano to stretch out creatively. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles will find this chart an exhilarating addition to their repertoire. The rhythm section—particularly the drum set and acoustic bass players—must maintain a resilient, driving time-feel while navigating sharp metric accents and punctuated ensemble hits. Because the score balances demanding technical passages with deeply satisfying, swinging ensemble moments, it serves as an exceptional festival chart or a high-impact concert closer that rewards careful sectional rehearsal and rewards the listener with dense, rewarding harmonic textures. Navigating "Plus Five" successfully requires absolute rhythmic unity, particularly during the punctuated syncopated figures traded between the brass and saxophones. The conductor should insist that all eighth-note lines are played with an authentic, forward-moving swing articulation—avoiding stiffness while keeping the backbeats crisp and controlled. Pay close attention to dynamic markings; the contrast between the hushed, driving undercurrents and the roaring tutti shout chorus is what gives the chart its narrative arc. Horn players should execute falls and doits with clean stylistic intent rather than exaggeration. The rhythm section needs to lock in tightly from bar one, with the drummer driving the ensemble using a crisp ride-cymbal pattern and well-placed snare kicks that highlight the arrangement's signature metric turnarounds. Sectional rehearsals should isolate the complex saxophone soli to ensure flawless intonation and rhythmic alignment before integrating it with the full band. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this publication? A: This arrangement includes a full 17-instrument big band instrumentation (comprising Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drum Set) alongside a comprehensive 53-page conductor score. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This piece is graded as advanced, making it best suited for college, advanced high school, community, and professional jazz ensembles capable of handling complex syncopation and extended harmonies. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of the piece? A: Written in the modern jazz standard idiom, the arrangement blends traditional swinging momentum with contemporary harmonic language characteristic of advanced contemporary big band writing. Q: What makes this specific arrangement by D. Bandman unique? A: It features distinctively modern reharmonizations, an interlocking saxophone soli, and a powerful shout chorus that utilizes clever cross-rhythms and rich extended chord voicings. Q: What is the suggested tempo and performance duration for this chart? A: The arrangement is set to a vibrant medium-up swing feel, providing an energetic performance duration of approximately 4 to 5 minutes depending on the length of the open solo rotations.