We And Us (E.Wilkins)

Composed and structured during the height of the modern big band era, "We And Us" stands as a brilliant testament to the compositional and arranging genius of Ernie Wilkins. Best known for shaping the aggressive, swinging "New Testament" sound of the Count Basie Orchestra and writing charts for Dizzy Gillespie and Harry James, Wilkins brought his trademark punchy, blues-infused sensibility to this medium-fast swing original. Originally published in 1980, the work encapsulates the sophisticated yet accessible writing style that defined Wilkins's later career, blending classic Kansas City drive with sharp bop-inflected harmonies. It captures a vibrant, confident energy that bridges traditional swing with contemporary jazz ensemble demands, making it a hip and engaging addition to any serious concert program. Musically, the piece unfolds at a driving medium-fast swing tempo in 4/4 time, characterized by an infectious groove and a buoyant mood. The harmonic framework utilizes rich extended chords and clever chromatic voice-leading while keeping the core blues-oriented momentum intact. Wilkins structures the arrangement to alternate between tightly knit, highly conversational ensemble passages and wide-open spaces for soloists. The emotional landscape ranges from cool, understated urban sophistication during the sectional interplay to an exuberant, high-octane release of energy during the main climactic statements. Ernie Wilkins's distinctive approach shines through the transparent yet powerful orchestration, where no voice is wasted. The arrangement features characteristically crisp sectional solis, clever counterpoint between the brass and reeds, and driving shout choruses that build organically. Wilkins distributes the thematic material dynamically across the full 17-instrument big band, allowing different sections to converse naturally. The saxophones benefit from supple, linear writing that demands agile articulation, while the brass parts utilize precise rhythmic stabs and warm, fat harmonic pads that emulate the classic Basie roar without requiring excessive upper-register strain. Performing this chart offers a rich educational and artistic reward, relying heavily on tight section blend, rhythmic precision, and authentic swing articulation. Melody statements are traded deftly between the woodwinds and brass, supported by a rhythm section groove that must push forward relentlessly. Solos are seamlessly integrated into the form, providing designated instrumentalists ample room to stretch out over swinging changes. Advanced high school, college, and professional jazz ensembles will find this arrangement exceptionally well-suited for developing stylistic maturity, light-touch swing subdivision, and dynamic contrast. Success with this medium-fast swing chart hinges on maintaining a relaxed yet intensely driven subdivision. The rhythm section is the anchor: the drummer should ride the cymbal with a clear triplet feel while keeping hi-hat chicks crisp on beats two and four, avoiding any rushing as the ensemble crescendos. Horn players must pay close attention to short-long articulation markings, ensuring that eighth notes are swung naturally rather than dotted artificially. In the ensemble passages, balance is paramount; the saxophones need a light, agile approach during linear lines, while the brass should blend their background punches cleanly beneath any featured soloists. Watch out for sudden dynamic shifts—Wilkins frequently drops the full band down to a whisper before exploding into a brass shout chorus. No specialized plunger mutes or unconventional extended techniques are required, allowing the ensemble to focus entirely on intonation, crisp swing phrasing, and cohesive stylistic execution. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This standard 17-instrument big band arrangement includes parts for 2 alto saxaxes, 2 tenor saxes, baritone sax, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, guitar, piano, bass, and drums, spanning a comprehensive 34-page publication. Q: What is the difficulty level of this chart? A: Assigned a grade level of 3, this arrangement is well-suited for proficient high school groups, college bands, and community jazz ensembles looking to hone their medium-swing style without extreme technical hurdles. Q: What is the stylistic and historical background of the piece? A: Written by legendary arranger Ernie Wilkins—renowned for his foundational work with the Count Basie Orchestra—this medium-fast swing original was published in 1980 and reflects the hip, blues-drenched bop aesthetic of its composer. Q: What makes this Ernie Wilkins arrangement unique? A: It showcases Wilkins's signature "punchy" voicing style, offering a masterful balance between sophisticated harmonic textures and infectious, foot-tapping groove writing that keeps both performers and audiences engaged. Q: What is the performance duration and tempo of the piece? A: The chart is performed at a medium-fast swing feel and has a compact, high-impact duration of approximately 2 minutes and 4 seconds.