Big Band – Sheet Music & Scores

“I still love recording and still love the stage, but like my dad, I have the most fun when I am in front of that glorious orchestra or that kick-butt big band.” Natalie Cole, American Singer, daughter of Nat King Cole

Big Band music is immortal. From its origins in New Orleans in the 20s, through complete world domination in the 30s and 40s, the genre has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is still hugely popular world-wide today.

The big band, also known as the ’jazz orchestra’, is a jazz ensemble made up of wind instruments and a rhythm section. The line-up usually consists of 5 saxophones, occasionally a clarinet or two, 4 trombones, 4 or 5 trumpets, piano, guitar, double bass and drums. But the music and the musical forces can vary a great deal, depending on the line-up, style and genre.

Some of the biggest names in the history of the big band include Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw & Ella Fitzgerald. As the big band developed through the swing era, into be-bop and modern jazz, through artists like Miles Davis & Dizzy Gillespie, the repertoire became much wider, with modern big bands playing all sorts of styles, including Latin Music for Big Band, Big Band Jazz Fusion, Pop Music for Big Band and even Big Band Rock.

Some swinging links for big band fans

• Jazz for Big Band
• Swing for Big Band
• Latin Music for Big Band
• Songs for Big Band
• Easy Pieces for Big Band
• Small Big Band Sheet Music & Scores