Mean Machine — Big Band Arrangement by D.Sebesky

EnsembleBig Band
ArrangerD.Sebesky
ComposerM.Ferguson
InstrumentationAlto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums, Rhythm Section
StyleSwing
Score & PartsIndividual parts only (no conductor score). 1 separate part
Pages41 pages
Price$29.99

About This Arrangement

Mean Machine is a big band arrangement by D. Sebesky, originally composed by M. Ferguson, known for its high-energy, driving feel. This chart delivers a powerful, brass-heavy sound that was characteristic of many big bands in the latter half of the 20th century. It definitely has a strong, straight-ahead swing groove that will get your rhythm section locked in.

This download includes 41 pages of individual instrument parts in a single PDF. No conductor score is included. You'll have everything your sections need to get this chart up and running.

This chart is a great choice for bands looking to dig into some classic big band repertoire with a strong, assertive character. It’s the kind of piece that pushes the ensemble to play with conviction and precision, making it a solid selection for a concert opener or a powerful feature number. The arrangement really showcases the full power of a big band.

Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are included in the Mean Machine arrangement?
This arrangement of Mean Machine 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 designed to deliver a full and powerful sound, typical of many professional ensembles.
What is the difficulty level of this big band chart?
This chart is suitable for intermediate to advanced big bands. While not overly complex harmonically, it requires a solid rhythm section and strong brass and sax sections to execute the driving feel and powerful dynamics effectively. It's a challenging but rewarding piece for a performing ensemble.
Does the Mean Machine PDF download include a full conductor score?
No, this download for Mean Machine does not include a full conductor score. It contains 41 pages of individual instrument parts only. Band leaders will need to work from the individual parts to rehearse and conduct the ensemble.
What style or genre is the Mean Machine arrangement?
Mean Machine is a high-energy big band chart firmly rooted in the swing genre. It features a powerful, driving groove and a brass-heavy sound that was characteristic of many jazz orchestras. It's a great example of a straight-ahead, assertive big band piece.
How many pages are in the Mean Machine download and what does it contain?
The Mean Machine download contains 41 pages in a single PDF. This PDF includes all the individual instrument parts for the big band arrangement. You will receive all the necessary parts for each musician in your ensemble.

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