Black Cow - Walter Becker — Big Band Arrangement by J.Higgins

EnsembleBig Band
ArrangerJ.Higgins
Composer- Funk
InstrumentationAlto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Rhythm Section
StyleFunk
Score & PartsIndividual parts only (no conductor score). 1 separate part
Pages44 pages
Price$29.99

About This Arrangement

Black Cow is a big band arrangement by J. Higgins, bringing a classic funk tune to a large ensemble setting. This chart has a smooth, laid-back funk groove, characteristic of the original recording, making it a great addition to a contemporary big band book.

This download includes 44 pages of individual instrument parts in a single PDF. No conductor score is included.

Walter Becker's work with Steely Dan defined a certain sophisticated sound in the 70s and 80s. This arrangement captures that vibe, providing a solid, playable chart that will get a band locked into a tight funk feel. It's a great way to introduce younger players to the genre or to add a familiar, yet challenging, tune to a seasoned band's repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are included in this arrangement of Black Cow?
This big band arrangement of Black Cow includes parts for 2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, Baritone Sax, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums. It's a full big band instrumentation designed to capture the original funk feel.
What is the difficulty level of this Black Cow chart?
This chart is suitable for intermediate to advanced big bands. While the groove is accessible, the specific voicings and ensemble work require a band that can lock into a tight funk feel and handle contemporary big band writing. It's a rewarding challenge.
Does this download of Black Cow include a full conductor score?
No, this download does not include a full conductor score. You will receive 44 pages of individual instrument parts in a single PDF. This allows each musician to have their specific part readily available for rehearsal and performance.
What style or genre is this arrangement of Black Cow?
This arrangement of Black Cow falls squarely into the funk genre. It maintains the cool, sophisticated funk vibe of the original recording by Walter Becker, making it a great choice for bands looking to explore contemporary grooves and soulful melodies.
How many pages are in the Black Cow download, and what does it contain?
The Black Cow download contains 44 pages in total, all within a single PDF file. This includes all the individual instrument parts for the big band, ready for printing and distribution to your ensemble members.

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