Don't Be Cruel — Big Band Arrangement by J.Nowak

EnsembleBig Band
ArrangerJ.Nowak
InstrumentationAlto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums
StyleSwing
Score & PartsIndividual parts only (no conductor score). 1 separate part
Pages38 pages
Price$29.99

About This Arrangement

Don't Be Cruel is a big band arrangement by J. Nowak that brings a classic rock and roll tune into the jazz ensemble setting. This chart has a driving, energetic feel, perfect for a band looking to add a familiar, upbeat number to their book. It's a solid choice for engaging an audience with a tune they already know, but with a fresh, big band sound.

This download includes 38 pages of individual instrument parts in a single PDF. No conductor score is included, so this is best suited for a band leader who is comfortable working directly from the parts or has a strong ear for the arrangement.

Arranging a rock and roll hit like "Don't Be Cruel" for big band requires a good understanding of both genres. This chart provides a fun challenge for the brass and sax sections, often featuring tight ensemble figures and a strong rhythmic foundation from the rhythm section. It's a great way to bridge the gap between different musical tastes in a performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are included in this arrangement of "Don't Be Cruel"?
This big band arrangement of "Don't Be Cruel" includes parts for 2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, Baritone Sax, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums. It's a standard big band instrumentation, providing a full sound for the ensemble.
What is the difficulty level of this "Don't Be Cruel" chart?
This arrangement of "Don't Be Cruel" is suitable for an intermediate to advanced big band. The rock and roll feel translated to a big band setting offers a fun challenge, particularly for the brass and saxophone sections with its energetic figures.
Does this download of "Don't Be Cruel" include a full conductor score?
No, this download of "Don't Be Cruel" does not include a full conductor score. It contains only the individual instrument parts, so the band leader will need to work directly from those or have a strong understanding of the arrangement.
What style or genre is this "Don't Be Cruel" arrangement?
This arrangement of "Don't Be Cruel" is a big band take on a classic rock and roll song. While the original is rock and roll, the arrangement leans into a swing or energetic jazz-pop style, making it a lively addition to a jazz ensemble's repertoire.
How many pages are in the "Don't Be Cruel" download and what does it include?
The "Don't Be Cruel" download consists of 38 pages. It includes all the individual instrument parts for the big band, specifically for 2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, Baritone Sax, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums.

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