Samba Dees Godda Do It (T.Kubis)

Composed and arranged by master craftsman Tom Kubis, "Samba Dees Godda Do It" is a high-energy, infectious contemporary jazz chart that showcases the composer's signature wit, intricate harmonic structures, and mastery of modern big band writing. Originally recorded by the Tom Kubis Big Band on their acclaimed album *Slightly Off The Ground*, this composition epitomizes the vibrant intersection of traditional swing-era ensemble power and modern Latin-jazz grooves. Kubis, renowned for his extensive work with luminaries like Steve Allen, Quincy Jones, and the Tonight Show Band, infuses the piece with a sophisticated yet accessible West Coast big band sensibility that has made his charts staples for advanced ensembles worldwide. Driven by an invigorating, bouncy samba feel at around 132 beats per minute, the piece immediately establishes a celebratory mood defined by crisp rhythmic syncopation and rich brass voicings. The harmonic language is brilliantly colorful, utilizing extended and altered chords that give the changes a fresh, sophisticated edge while maintaining an undeniable danceable momentum. Kubis balances dense, cascading ensemble passages with transparent, breezy interludes that let the groove breathe. The dynamic interplay between the rhythm section and the horn tiers creates an effervescent energy, evoking the sunny, upbeat atmosphere of a bustling coastal jazz festival combined with the razor-sharp precision of premier studio studio orchestras. True to Kubis’s arranging style, the chart features meticulously crafted saxophone solis and interlocking brass countermelodies that demand clean articulation and stylistic unity across the entire section. The melody is tossed dynamically among the woodwinds and high brass, punctuated by sharp, stylized ensemble hits that require absolute rhythmic exactitude. An open solo section provides ample space for featured improvisers—typically accommodating guitar, piano, or tenor saxophone—to stretch out over compelling, modern chord changes before launching into a powerhouse shout chorus. This climactic section integrates all instrumental forces in a dense, cascading display of polyrhythmic intensity before resolving into a high-octane final punch. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands will find this 53-page arrangement an exhilarating challenge that richly rewards rigorous rehearsal. Because the chart relies heavily on tight section blend, stylistic consistency in the Latin groove, and nimble execution of syncopated figures, it serves as an exceptional vehicle for developing contemporary big band literacy. Conductor and section leaders will appreciate how effectively the orchestration highlights individual voices while maintaining a massive, cohesive ensemble sound that consistently electrifies audiences from the first downbeat to the final chord. Achieving an authentic performance of this chart requires meticulous attention to the underlying groove and articulation clarity. The tempo should remain a steady, driving samba (approximately quarter note = 132), anchored by a rhythm section that understands how to balance a relaxed feel with precise, forward-moving momentum. Drummers should lean into an authentic bossa/samba pattern utilizing cross-stick and ride cymbal interplay without letting the volume overpower the horn lines. The primary technical hurdle lies in the precise execution of fast, syncopated ensemble figures that cross bar lines. Horn players must focus on uniform tongue-stops and short, punchy notes to prevent the rapid sixteenth-note patterns from blurring. Pay close attention to the dynamic markings; contrasting the soft, transparent background figures against the roaring ensemble hits will maximize the chart's dramatic impact. During the open solo section, the rhythm section should maintain a supportive, interactive Latin comping style, encouraging soloists to explore the rich harmonic extensions written into the changes. Section rehearsals should isolate the complex saxophone soli passages to ensure unified phrasing and intonation before integrating them with the full big band. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this big band arrangement? A: This 53-page publication includes a full conductor sketch score and standard big band instrumentation for 17 instruments: 2 altos, 2 tenors, 1 baritone saxophone, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of this chart? A: This arrangement is rated as difficult (advanced), making it best suited for college jazz labs, advanced high school bands, and professional or community big bands with strong technical capabilities. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of the piece? A: Written in a contemporary Latin-jazz style, this original composition by Tom Kubis was famously recorded on his album *Slightly Off The Ground* and reflects the sophisticated West Coast big band tradition. Q: What makes this Tom Kubis arrangement unique? A: It features Kubis's signature clever harmonic changes, an open-ended solo section for multiple improvisers, tight saxophone solis, and a high-energy shout chorus that builds seamlessly out of a vibrant samba groove. Q: What is the performance duration and recommended tempo? A: The piece is designed to be performed at a lively samba tempo of around quarter note = 132, with a total duration fitting standard concert or festival performance formats.