It's A Raggy Waltz — Big Band Arrangement by D.Wolpe

EnsembleBig Band
ArrangerD.Wolpe
ComposerD.Brubeck
InstrumentationAlto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums
StyleSwing
Score & PartsIndividual parts only (no conductor score). 1 separate part
Pages54 pages
Price$29.99

About This Arrangement

It's A Raggy Waltz is a big band arrangement by D. Wolpe that brings Dave Brubeck's iconic 9/8 time signature to a larger ensemble. This chart captures the playful, syncopated feel of the original, making it a unique addition to any big band library. The arrangement maintains the distinct rhythmic character that made Brubeck's composition a jazz standard.

This download includes 54 pages of individual instrument parts in a single PDF. No conductor score is included.

Playing a piece like "It's A Raggy Waltz" with a big band offers a fantastic opportunity for the brass and sax sections to really dig into the rhythmic interplay. The arrangement challenges the ensemble to maintain precision and swing feel within the unusual time signature, which is great for developing rhythmic sophistication. It's a chart that will stand out in a concert program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are included in this arrangement of "It's A Raggy Waltz"?
This big band arrangement includes parts for 2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, Baritone Sax, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums. It provides a complete set of individual instrument parts for a standard big band lineup, allowing your ensemble to perform this classic piece.
What is the difficulty level of this big band chart?
This arrangement of "It's A Raggy Waltz" is suitable for intermediate to advanced big bands. The rhythmic complexity of the 9/8 time signature requires a solid understanding of jazz rhythm and ensemble precision, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced players.
Does this download include a full conductor score?
No, this download does not include a full conductor score. The PDF provided contains only the individual instrument parts for the big band. Conductors will need to work from the parts or create their own score if one is desired for rehearsal purposes.
What is the style or genre of "It's A Raggy Waltz"?
"It's A Raggy Waltz" is firmly rooted in the jazz genre, specifically known for its distinctive waltz feel in a 9/8 time signature. It's a classic example of cool jazz with a playful, syncopated swing that makes it stand out from more traditional swing charts.
How many pages are included in the download, and what do I receive?
The download for "It's A Raggy Waltz" consists of 54 pages. You will receive a single PDF file containing all the individual instrument parts for the big band arrangement. This provides everything needed for each musician to play their respective part.

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