The Entertainer (W.Marcus)

Scott Joplin’s timeless 1902 ragtime masterpiece undergoes a brilliant metamorphosis in this sophisticated big band chart. Originally conceived as a classic piano rag that sparked a nationwide craze and later found a massive mid-century revival through the film *The Sting*, "The Entertainer" is reimagined here through the lens of classic mid-century swing and contemporary big band orchestration. W.Marcus preserves the infectious, syncopated charm of Joplin's original melodies while injecting them with the rich harmonic vocabulary, driving rhythmic propulsion, and dynamic color palette of the modern jazz orchestra. At a brisk, buoyant medium-swing tempo, the chart opens with a jaunty brass introduction before handing the iconic primary theme to the woodwinds. The arrangement expertly balances nostalgia with fresh vitality, utilizing clever counter-melodies, witty dynamic shifts, and vibrant chromatic passing chords. W.Marcus constructs a brilliant developmental section that features a tightly interwoven saxophone soli, showcasing intricate bebop-inflected lines that pay homage to the original's rigorous counterpoint. The climactic shout chorus builds with irresistible momentum, driven by crisp syncopated brass stabs and a swinging rhythm section groove, ultimately culminating in a high-energy, brass-heavy finale that brings the house down. Designed with advanced high school, collegiate, and professional ensembles in mind, this 31-page publication offers a masterclass in ensemble blend, precision articulation, and stylistic versatility. While the rhythm section must maintain an unwavering, feather-light swing feel to preserve the ragtime essence, the horn sections are tasked with executing crisp, articulated figures that demand clean execution. Featured solo space allows a standout soloist to stretch out over swinging changes, making it a stellar showcase piece for any competitive festival or standard concert program. Achieving success with this chart requires striking a delicate balance between classic ragtime precision and relaxed, driving swing. The rhythm section is the anchor; the piano and guitar should emulate a light, stride-inspired yet modern comping style, avoiding heavy chordal hits that bog down the tempo. Horn players must pay meticulous attention to dynamic contrasts, ensuring that staccato accents are sharp and dry without sounding harsh. The saxophone soli demands absolute unity in intonation and phrasing—practice these passages slowly at first, locking in the articulation before pushing toward performance tempo. Conductors should emphasize the playful, tongue-in-cheek nature of the composition, encouraging the ensemble to lean into the sly chromaticism and sudden dynamic drops that give W.Marcus’s chart its distinct personality. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This complete 17-instrument big band arrangement includes parts for Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, four trumpets, four trombones, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and a comprehensive conductor score across 31 pages. Q: What is the difficulty level of this chart? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced intermediate to advanced, making it ideal for high-level high school, collegiate, and community big bands that possess strong section cohesion and solid reading skills. Q: How does this version differ from traditional ragtime? A: While retaining Scott Joplin's legendary melody and form, W.Marcus reframes the piece in a swinging 4/4 jazz context, incorporating extended jazz harmonies, a sophisticated saxophone soli, and a powerhouse shout chorus. Q: What is the recommended performance tempo and feel? A: The piece is set at a bright, buoyant medium swing (around quarter note = 132-144 BPM), requiring an energetic, driving feel that marries traditional ragtime syncopation with modern big band swing phrasing. Q: How long is the performance duration of this arrangement? A: When performed at the indicated tempo with all repeats and solo sections observed, the arrangement runs approximately 3.5 to 4 minutes, making it an ideal festival feature or concert opener.