Take The A Train (D.Schamber)

Billy Strayhorn’s timeless anthem, composed in 1939 as the signature tune for the Duke Ellington Orchestra, stands as one of the definitive cornerstones of the big band canon. Rooted in the sophisticated urbanity of the swing era and famously inspired by directions to Strayhorn on how to reach Harlem via the New York subway, the original arrangement epitomizes the sleek, sophisticated momentum of mid-century jazz. Its unmistakable chromatic hook and infectious forward drive have cemented its status as an international jazz standard, continually reinterpreted by generations of artists exploring the intersection of catchy melodicism and rich harmonic craftsmanship. Don Schamber’s imaginative big band adaptation breathes fresh vitality into this classic framework, propelling the material into a modern mainstream jazz idiom characterized by crisp articulation, vibrant textural contrast, and sophisticated harmonic coloration. Operating at a brisk, driving medium-up swing tempo, the arrangement opens with the iconic motif before expanding into meticulously crafted ensemble passages. Schamber utilizes contemporary section voicings that give the traditional harmonies a rich, slightly angular sheen, balancing reverence for Strayhorn’s original melodic architecture with a forward-thinking, collegiate-level compositional complexity. Throughout the chart, the melodic weight shifts dynamically between sections, highlighting tight sax solis and punchy brass counterlines that demand immaculate precision and clean stylistic uniformity. A prominent featured solo space allows a capable improviser to stretch out over standard changes, supported by crisp background figures from the ensemble that build organic tension. The culmination of the chart features a high-energy shout chorus, where Schamber layers dynamic swells and syncopated rhythms across the full 19-piece instrumentation, driving toward a thrilling, high-impact climax that leaves audiences energized. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles will find this chart to be an exceptionally rewarding addition to their repertoire. Because of its demanding rhythmic figures, swift tempo, and requirement for seamless section blending, it serves as an ideal showcase for bands looking to test their stylistic flexibility, swing feel, and stamina. Directors will appreciate how the chart challenges players to balance aggressive projection with subtle, transparent phrasing, making it equally suited for competitive festival stages and sophisticated concert performances. Succeeding with Don Schamber’s arrangement of "Take The A Train" requires rigorous attention to articulation, particularly regarding short, crisp swing eighth notes and unified placement of syncopated accents. The rhythm section must anchor the ensemble with an unyielding, buoyant medium-up swing groove; the drummer should drive the ensemble with a classic ride-cymbal pattern while keeping hi-hats crisp on beats two and four. Brass players should master standard big band expressive devices—such as controlled falls, doits, and subtle plunger or cup-mute effects where indicated—without letting intonation slip during high-register lines. Rehearsals should initially focus on isolating the intricate sax soli and brass shout chorus at a slower tempo to lock in internal rhythmic subdivisions before pushing toward the performance metronome marking. Pay close attention to dynamic contrast; letting the ensemble drop away cleanly beneath featured soloists ensures the soloist has the spatial freedom to build a compelling, well-paced improvised narrative. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this 19-instrument big band arrangement? A: The instrumentation comprises a standard 19-piece big band lineup, featuring Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, four trumpets, four trombones, piano, guitar, bass, and drum set. Q: What is the overall difficulty level of this specific chart? A: This arrangement is tailored for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz bands, requiring strong technical proficiency, sharp stylistic articulation, and a mature swing feel. Q: How does this arrangement relate to the historical Billy Strayhorn original? A: While retaining the iconic melodic motifs and swinging essence of the legendary 1939 Duke Ellington theme, Don Schamber's adaptation infuses modern harmonic voicings and contemporary big band developmental techniques. Q: What makes Don Schamber’s treatment of this standard unique? A: It stands out through its sophisticated section interplay, vibrant textural shifts, dynamic shout chorus writing, and clever re-harmonizations that elevate a familiar tune into a fresh, contemporary concert piece. Q: What is the recommended performance tempo and duration for this arrangement? A: The chart is designed for a brisk, driving medium-up swing feel (typically around quarter note = 180-200 BPM) and runs for approximately 4 to 5 minutes depending on the length of the improvised solos.