When The Saints Go Marchin'In (A.Dedrick)

"When The Saints Go Marchin' In" stands as one of the most recognizable and enduring melodies in the American musical canon, a traditional gospel hymn that found an indelible home in the early jazz traditions of New Orleans. While its exact origins are debated, the spiritual gained widespread popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a staple of parades, funerals (often played in a mournful tempo on the way to the cemetery and a jubilant one on the return), and celebratory gatherings. Its simple, singable melody and powerful message of hope and redemption resonated deeply, making it a natural fit for the improvisational and communal spirit of nascent jazz. Louis Armstrong's iconic recordings in the mid-20th century cemented its status as a quintessential jazz standard, transforming it from a purely sacred tune into a secular anthem of joy and resilience, forever linking it to the vibrant energy of Dixieland and swing. Art Dedrick's masterful big band arrangement of this classic delivers a fresh, exhilarating take on the timeless melody, reimagining its traditional roots through the lens of a sophisticated medium-up swing feel. Set primarily in the key of F Major, the arrangement immediately establishes a buoyant, driving pulse in 4/4, inviting both performers and listeners into a celebratory mood. Dedrick, renowned for his pedagogical yet musically engaging charts, brings his signature clarity and robust voicings to "Saints." Expect meticulously crafted brass fanfares, crisp saxophone soli sections that interweave melodic lines with harmonic richness, and powerful ensemble shout choruses that build dynamic intensity. His approach often involves a progressive development of the theme, starting with a relatively straightforward presentation and gradually introducing more complex harmonies and rhythmic figures, culminating in a powerful, full-band statement. This arrangement is a showcase for a dynamic big band, featuring the melody passed between sections to highlight the ensemble's versatility. The initial statement might be carried by the trombones, followed by a bright saxophone soli, before the full brass section takes over with a powerful, harmonized rendition. Dedrick expertly integrates opportunities for featured solos, typically for Trumpet and Tenor Saxophone, allowing individual improvisers to explore the familiar chord changes within a swinging context. Technical challenges include precise articulation in the brass, tight rhythmic synchronization in the soli sections, and maintaining a consistent, energetic swing feel throughout. The rewarding aspect lies in the collective joy of performing such an iconic tune with a powerful, well-voiced big band arrangement that truly swings. This chart is ideally suited for advanced high school, college, community, and professional jazz ensembles looking for a spirited and well-constructed standard that will engage audiences and challenge musicians. This arrangement demands a consistent, medium-up swing feel from the outset, with a strong emphasis on rhythmic precision, especially in the brass section's syncopated figures. Conductors should emphasize a light, buoyant quarter note pulse, avoiding any tendency to rush. Articulation is key: brass players should aim for crisp, unified attacks and releases, particularly in the fanfares and shout choruses. Saxophone soli sections require careful attention to blend, balance, and rhythmic unison to achieve a seamless, driving sound. Ensure soloists are comfortable navigating the F Major blues-based changes. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to dynamic shaping, building from the initial statement to the powerful full-ensemble sections, and practicing the transitions between melodic statements and solo sections to maintain momentum. Q: What instruments are included in this arrangement? A: This big band arrangement is scored for 17 instruments, typically including Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 1 & 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1-4, Trombone 1-4, Piano, Bass, and Drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of Art Dedrick's "When The Saints Go Marchin' In" for big band? A: This arrangement is considered medium-advanced, suitable for advanced high school, college, community, and professional jazz ensembles. It requires solid instrumental technique, strong rhythmic understanding, and experience with big band phrasing. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of this arrangement? A: This is a swing-era big band arrangement of "When The Saints Go Marchin' In," a traditional American gospel hymn that became a foundational jazz standard, famously associated with New Orleans jazz and artists like Louis Armstrong. Q: What makes Art Dedrick's arrangement of "When The Saints Go Marchin' In" unique? A: Dedrick's treatment blends the traditional melody with sophisticated big band voicings, robust brass fanfares, intricate saxophone soli sections, and powerful shout choruses, all within a driving medium-up swing feel, offering a fresh yet authentic interpretation. Q: What is the typical performance duration and tempo for this piece? A: The typical performance duration is approximately 3-4 minutes, depending on the number and length of improvised solos. It is designed to be played at a medium-up swing tempo, generally around 160-180 beats per minute.