Kyle's Conundrum - Martin Behnke

Timberline Jazz Ensemble - Grade 4

So here's a big high-energy funk piece for my oldest son Kyle. It is, like he is, way too complex, sometimes too loud (and sometimes not) and demands lots of attention to precision, clarity, and articulation. It travels over lots of ground, is a lot of fun, and ultimately works things out, albeit (in the chart) with an "Ives-ian" question mark to close.  The opening--very active--phrases are a dialogue between the saxes and piano, then the trombones.  Solo changes are provided for alto, trumpet, and trombone, but can be opened for others if desired. This is a high energy, sometimes loud (and sometimes not) chart with lots of contrasts, and it demands lots of attention to the usual musical issues--tone, balance, blend, intonation, and especially precision, clarity, and articulation.  You and your band are gonna' like this piece, and so will your audiences.  

Grade JE-4.  Style, Tons-o-fun Funk.  Tonality, F Mixolydian.  Trumpet to written C.