Basie's Count (B.Paige - P.Stone)

Bring the iconic swing of Count Basie to your big band with "Basie's Count," expertly arranged by Bert Paige and Pol Stone for Woody Herman. This 23-page jazz chart captures the vibrant energy and sophisticated harmonies characteristic of the swing era, perfect for achieving an authentic big band sound. While the composer remains unknown, the arrangement by Paige and Stone masterfully evokes the Basie orchestra's signature style, featuring a medium tempo feel that encourages a relaxed yet propulsive groove. Expect classic jazz voicings, walking bass lines, and swinging drum patterns that are foundational to the genre. Your ensemble will appreciate the dynamic interplay between sections, with clearly delineated ensemble passages and opportunities for improvisation that are central to big band performance. This arrangement of "Basie's Count" is ideal for both educational and professional big bands. Its medium difficulty makes it accessible for advanced high school and collegiate ensembles, while still offering enough musical depth to satisfy seasoned professional groups.