Song Descriptions

Click the "Song Titles" to view comments from the Yamaha Mo-Songs Forum

"So Many Stars"  (Play The Song)   Midi Format 1 File

 This is a classic Sergio Mendez medium Bossa-Nova tempo from the 1960's.  I've always wanted to arranged this song and I've used basically many of the Classic Motif 8 voices.  I have also added a few percussive samples in Giga Format along with an acoustic Guitar.  The Motif voices include The Legend Trumpet, Alto Sax (vib) Sweet Flute, Medium Brass Ensemble, Sax Ensemble, Background Strings, Romantic Trumpet, Trombone, Slap Bass and Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  I have also included "The Midi Format 1 file for study purposes.

"Bop Avenue"   (Play The Song)

I wrote this Jazz composition in March of 2005.  It has the spirit of the great Be-Bop period of Jazz.  It features The Boresendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" & "The Bass" from Bardstownaudio.com.  I have also included the great voices from the Classic Motif 8 which include; The Legend Trumpet, Sweet Flute, Sax Ensemble, Trombone and Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.

"You Are Too Beautiful"   (Play The Song)

I became quite inspired to arranged and perform this superb classic composition  called "You are Too Beautiful" after hearing John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman perform & record it on  March 7th 1963.  This is a retake of a Jazz trio score featuring "The Boresendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" & "The Bass" (Bardstownaudio samples).  The Motif Classic 8 internal (two tracks) brushes from the Dr. Jazz Kit are also included.

"Left At The Cafe"   (Play The Song)

This is a slow Bossa-Nova inspired by Kip McGinnis's "The Bass""  I composed this composition having in mind an elegant woman sitting at a small table by a cafe in a villa waiting for her date to show up.  She's the kind of lady who feels she is perfect in every way.  Unfortunately her date never shows up leaving her alone thinking why as she gazes out over  a small bay inlet somewhere in France.

The instrumentation features, The Bardstownaudio Imperial Borsendorfer Grand, "The Bass" and Bell Accordion.  The Soprano Sax is from the JOHN REKEVICS SAXOPHONE LIBRARYI out of http://www.glasstrax.com/biggagiggas/   Donnie Christian's  Shakers and Bongo samples.  I would  like to thank Kip McGinnis for the entire mix in Samplitude Professional and for rendering the Trumpet midi track.

Don't Go Pushin' Me Around"   (Play The Song)

This Jazz trio composition was composed by me in 2005 exclusively for Bardstownaudio.com.  It features the New Acoustic Bass sampled by Kip McGinnis along with Kip's Imperial Borsendorfer Grand.  I've added some Jr. Jazz Kit drums from the Classic Motif 8.  I enjoyed the combination between the bass and piano which proved to be a fine marriage among Kip's samples.

"Like A Lover"   (Play The Song)

As I move towards Orchestral Pop scoring, here is my arrangement of "Like A Lover"  You probably know this song from Brazil "66" from the 1970's.  It features the Bardstown Borsendorfer, Archtop Guitar and Pancordian (3 middle reeds)  The Solo instruments include Solo Trumpet, VSL Sopranos Sax, Motif 8 Trombone & The Pancordian taking command of the entire score.  The supporting ensembles are the 70 piece EWQLSO strings, & 4 Trombone Ensemble   The Acoustic Bass & Motif 8's Dr Jazz Kit Drums support the pulse.

"Just Friends"   (Play The Song)

In dedication to all of our wonderful colleagues in the Mo-Songs Forum where many cyber friendships have grown over this last year, here's my thanks to all of them for being supportive, objective and class act artists.  This demo features the Bardstown Bosendorfer Imperial Grand Model 290, &  Acoustic Archtop Guitar.  A new drum set produced by Donnie Christian of DS Soundware along with the trilogy acoustic bass.  Let us not forget the Motif 8 Classic Sax Ensemble still the best ensemble in my books adding the supportive undertones to the Piano performance.

"On 46th Street"   (Play The Song)

"On 46th Street" is my first original composition for 2004.  It is dedicated to all of my colleagues that have attended The High School of Performing Arts in Manhattan (NYC) and have walked this wonderful street to the school.  It is scored for many voices:  Bardstown's Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Bell Accordian & Archtop Guitar, Trilogy Bass, Dan Dean's Solo Trumpet, Trumpet Ensemble & Trombone Ensemble, EWQLSO 70 Piece String Ensemble & Woodwind Ensemble and Dr. Jazz Kit Drums (2 tracks)  

"A Leaf's Journey"   (Play The Song)

" A Leaf's Journey" is an original ballad composition I wrote in the fall o0f 2003.  I've always admired how the leaves change throughout our 4 seasons in New York.  This ballad feature the New VSL Soprano Sax in the Performance Legato patch (SXS_perf-leg_p) using the Performance Tools in the Hor-Legato setting.  Since I enjoy playing my scores in real time, this solo sax performance was created by  many takes using no additional keying.  I have always felt that a great sampled instrument can be played as a stand alone in any of its supportive patches.

"It's All Minor"   (Play The Song)

It's all Minor" is an original Be-bop Big Band arrangement in the key of C-minor which features the following Motif internal voices: Organ, Jazz Tremlo Guitar, Legend Trumpet, (Combined sounds for the lead melody and first solo) the High & Medium Brass ensembles and the Sax ensemble support the fills and counter phrases.  The Bardstown Borsendorfer Piano along with the Trilogy based supplied by Bardstownaudio for the Final mix and Donnie Christian's Cup muted trumpet have their own solo choruses.  All of the percussion emanates form the Dr. Jazz Kit of the Motif 8 Work Station.  This original tune will be scored in the future for an international sound developer TBA.  The tempo is set at 150 BPM.  

"All Of Me"   (Play The Song)

Here's a brief 4 piece Jazz ensemble arrangement of "All Of Me"  It features two of Bardstownaudio.com great samples which include the Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano and the Archtop 1948 Gibson Guitar.  Kip McGinnis replaced the acoustic Bass for his Trilogy Acoustic Bass.  The percussion is from the Motif 8 Dr. Jazz Kit collection.          Key: C     Tempo Set At 140:BPM

"Where Is the Love"  (Play The Song)

Originally performed by Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway in 1972 brings us to our next Big Band Arrangement.  The score consists of The lead melody played by the Alto Sax (vib) and The Trombone (Motif internal voices)  The Solo chorus are played by Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano,   **Brand New** Donnie Christian's - Cup Muted Bb Trumpet, (Berkley College) Trombone and once again the Alto Sax (Vib).   The supporting ensembles from the Motf 8 include the High & Medium Brass & Sax Ensemble.  Another assigned ensemble includes The Sweet Flute, Legend Trumpet and Medium Brass.  The percussion is from the Dr. Jazz Kit (Motif) and Donnie Christians "Shakers"  The Bass is in Kontakt Format.  **Special Thanks To Donnie Christian for the Cup Muted Trumpet and his Shakers & Kip McGinnis for his marvelous Archtop 1948 Gibson Guitar playing down the chords and his Borsendorfer Piano.** 

"Brazilian Festival"  (Play The Song)

Brazilian Festival is an Original Latino composition having the Medium Brass, Legend Trumpet and Sweet Flute playing the lead melody. The following solos are The Archtop Gibson 1948 Guitar, Motif's Trombone, Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Bass and featuring Donnie Christian's Falling Bb Trumpet (sampled out of Berkley College) The Motif
High Brass and Sax Ensemble lend some filling support. Leading the percussion is the Dr. Jazz Kit from the Motif 8 and Donnie Christian's Bongos in the background. The Borsendorfer Piano and Archtop Guitars (2nd Guitar stroking the chords) are from Bardstownaudio.com.

The tempo is set at 180BPM in the Key of Ab

"Masquerade"  (Play The Song)

"I had a special request to do "Masquerade" from the Motifator Forum  a few weeks ago.  This Big Band arrangement includes 3 Solo Motif instruments: Trombone, Romantic Trumpet & Alto Sax (vib).  It is accompanied by The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano ) Bardstownaudio.com),  Accoustic Bass, High & Medium Brass Ensembles, Sax Ensemble and DR. Jazz Kit Drums.  The arrangement is in C-Minor with a 110 BPM tempo. 

"My Cherie Amour"  (Play The Song)

"My Cherie Amour" composed by Stevie Wonder was mixed by Kip McGinnis, sound developer and CEO of Bardstownaudio.com   I incorporated 4 of Bardstown's wonderful samples; Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Archtop and Dearmond Pick-up Gibson 1948 Guitars and The Excelsior Clarinet Accordion for a bit of Paris. For the Rhythm section I used Dssoundware Congas, Claves, Shakers and Bongos. The Trilogy acoustic bass and a few other percussive instruments (Bell tree) were used.

"Sunshine of Your Life"  (Play The Song)

Here's a fast song-arrangement (Bossa-Nova) of Stevie Wonder's "Sunshine of Your Life"

Key: C Tempo: 180 bpm Mixed at 120 bps

I had a request to mix the Giga voices with the Motif internal voices here.

Solos and or leads include: (Motif voices) Alto Sax (vib), Trombone, & Romantic Trumpet.
Giga Voices include,  Bardstownaudio.com  Archtop Gibson 1948 and DeArmond Archtop Guitar, Borsendorfer Piano and
Dan Dean's Bass.

Motif Ensembles include: Sax Ensemble & Medium Brass
Motif Supportive Voices include: Sweet Flute & Legend Trumpet

2 tracks of Dr. Jazz Drum Kit is also included.

"How High The Moon"  (Play The Song)

This is a 24 bit version of a request to do a Be-Bop standard by Charlie Parker called "How High The Moon" in the original key of "G".  This is a very syncopated arrangement featuring the Jazz Quartet of: The  Borsendorfer Piano, Accoustic Bass, Archtop 1948 Gibson Guitar and Drums.  The Solos include: Piano Guitar and Bass.  This is a fast tempo set at 180 BPM.  Also included is Donnie Christian's Drum Kit.  

"Skylark"  (Play The Song)

Here's a sweet arrangement of Hoagy Carmichael & Johnny Mercer's "Skylark" (great tune, great chords in the bridge)

I became very inspired to score this arrangement with THREE of Kip McGinnis's Giga Samples including "The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano,  Gibson 1948 L7 Archtop, Guitar (thumb) & finally first the first time, "The Excelsior Symphony (Clarinet) Accordion.  
All 3 samples from Bardstownaudio.com are artfully featured playing solo and or lead.

The other Giga library of instruments iinclude
"The Garritan Strings", Dan Dean's Bass (Pzm) and finally from the Motif 8 internal "The Dr Jazz Kit" brushes.

"It Could Happen To You"   (Play The Song)

Here's Vanhusen's classic "It Could Happen To You"  The clarity between The Borsendorfer and The Archtop Guitar demonstrates great sampling accomplishments out of BardstownAudio.com  I have also included a Solo Acoustic String Bass.  The Motif Internal voice is from Dr; Jazz Kit.

"Take The "A" Train   (Play The Song)

Here's a great Duke Ellington Big Band standard scored for the Motif 8 internal sounds as well as the Giga Library of sounds.                                                         The Solos include:  Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax, Trombone, Jazz Guitar, Piano.  Supportive Ensembles: Hi and Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble, Bass and 2 tracks    of Drums.

"Disney Medley"   (Play The Song)

After Visiting Disney World in Orlando Florida on June 27th 2003, I found myself in tears while watching the Disney Parade marching down "Main Street" in the               "Magic Kingdom".  No matter what age your are, Disney is part of everybody's roots.  This is a first take of The Disney Medley .. (Revisions may follow) Here's my brief tribute to Walt Disney featuring the following the songs: Beauty & The Beast (Alto Sax (vib) Lead Solo & Chorus) .. A Brief phrase from "Never Never Land" .. Bridge (Romantic Trumpet) right into "Someday My Prince Will Come" (Featuring the entire Brass Section with Lead Trombone) Let's not forget The Sax Section, Sweet Flute and Harmonica.  The Giga Instruments include BardstownsAudio's Imperial Borsendorfer Grand Piano, Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (Pz) and the Wonderful "Garritan Strings"
Two Tracks of Drums are from the Dr. Jazz Kit

"Watch What Happens"  (Play The Song)

This latest Bossa-Nova of "Watch What Happens" features  3 sampled instruments from Bardstownaudio.com; Imperial Grand Piano,                    Archtop (Gibson 1948) Guitar, (thumb) & The Desmond Gibson L7 Archtop Guitar (Thumb).  Also included is the Giga sample of                                    Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz) The Motif 8 internal voices include; The Sweet Flute, Harmonica & 3 drum tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit.                

"Meditation"   (Play The Song)

Here's a very sweet Bossa-Nova called Meditation.  This score features Bardstownaudio.com  Archtop (Gibson 1948) Guitar (thumb) & The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano.  I tried to create a Paul Desmond articulation for the Alto Sax (vib).  Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz) covers the heart beat groove for the arrangement along with 3 tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit.  The Gibson - 1948) Archtop Guitar is one of the most beautiful guitars for this genre. 

"All The Things You Are"   (Play The Song)

After hearing a rendition on Kip McGinnis's website of "All The Things You", I immediately became inspired to make my own statement.  This Jazz arrangement features Bardstownaudio's  Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz).  Other solo instruments include the Motif 8 internal instruments: Trombone, & G-Tremlo-Guitar and 2 tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit.  The Sax Ensemble and the Medium Brass are used for the intro and ending.

"I Get A Kick Out Of You"   (Play The Song)

This is a driving up tempo big band arrangement of  a classic Cole Porter composition.  The tempo is set for 180 bpm and features the "Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" & Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz).  The Motif Solo Instruments include the "Romantic Trumpet",      "Alto Sax", (vib) "Trombone", & the "G-Tremlo-Guitar".  The supporting brass and reed ensembles are the High & Low Medium Brass, Sax ensemble  and 2 tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  The score is in the key of Eb & all instruments are played in real time.

"Rainy Days & Monday"   (Play The Song)

I was inspired to write this song-arrangement on the spur of the moment due to the fact that New York City had a succession of many days of rain at the end of the month of May. There wasn't much to do but look outside the windows with hands under your chin.  The Giga Library of Instrument include a Solo Chorus of The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Garritan Strings and Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz).  The Motif 8 internal sounds include: Sweet Flute, Solo Alto Sax (vib), Solo Romantic Trumpet, Solo Trombone, Soft Brass Ensemble, Celeste, Harmonica, G-Tremlo-Guitar and 2 tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  The score encompasses 3 key signature changes: C, Eb and finally concludes in A major.

"Girl From Ipanema"  (Play The Song)

By Request Only - "The Girl From Ipanema"

This Score features The Lead & Solo Alto Sax (vib) commanding the performance followed by the G-Tremlo-Jazz Guitar taking a chorus and finally The "Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" taking the last solo chorus. The Motif Internal instruments include: Alto Sax (vib), Sweet Flute, Legend (muted) Trumpet, Medium and Soft Brass Ensembles, Sax Ensemble, Flemenco Guitar, G-Tremlo-Jazz Guitar and two tracks of Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  The Giga Library of Instruments include Bardstownaudio.com (Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano) Dan Deans Acoustic Bass,(pz) and the fabulous Garritan Strings on the counter melodies.

"Laughter In The Rain"  (Play The Song)

Neil Sedeka's "Laughter In The Rain" is one of the sweetest tunes released in 1974..  It's the kind of tune that depicts two young lovers strolling though the streets of their city.  This big band arrangement features the following Giga Library instruments: The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano & Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz).  The Motif 8 Instruments include: Lead & Solo:  "Romantic Trumpet" & "Alto Sax" (vib), "G-Tremlo Guitar" and "Trombone".  It is all supported by  The "Sax Ensemble",  "High & Low Medium Brass" & Two Tracks Of Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  The arrangement features a complete Brass section interlude with a chomping Bari-Sax.  It concludes with a fade out while the screaming Alto Sax (vib) takes it home.

"Satin Doll"   (Play The Song)

Here's A Big Band Arrangement of Billy Strayhorn's "Satin Doll" performed by many Big Bands including Duke Ellington and others.  The Giga Library of Instruments includes "The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" & Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz). The Motif Internal voices include Lead and Solo: "Legend (muted) Trumpet", "Alto Sax", (vib) "Romantic Trumpet", "Trombone". It is supported by The "Sax Ensemble",  "High & Low Medium Brass" & Two Tracks Of Dr. Jazz Kit Drums.  I found this score to be a challenge with the percussion and in executing the fills needed to support the dynamics in the Brass ensembles. 
Everything was played and scored in real time.

"Saxman's Swing"   (Retired)

This is an original Jazz composition that I wrote while on the road in 1977. I scored it for big band with the following instruments.  The Giga instruments included "The Bosendorfer Imperial Grand Piano and Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz). The Motif Internal sounds include Alto Sax (vib), Romantic Trumpet, Trombone, High & Low Brass Ensembles,  Sax Ensemble, G-Tremlo Guitar and Two tracks of Drums (Dr. Jazz Kit)  Everything is played in real time.

"Fire & Rain"  (Play The Song)

Fire & Rain features the fabulous Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano as the solo and lead instrument commanding the small Jazz Ensemble with the "Garritan Strings" and Dan Dean's Bass (pz).  The Motif 8 internal instruments include the "Sweet Flute", "Alto Sax", (vib) "Romantic Trumpet", "Medium Brass Ensemble", "Sax Ensemble", "Gtmelo-Jazz Guitar", "Legend (muted) Trumpet", "18 String Guitar" and two tracks of DR. Jazz Kit Drums.  This song-arrangement is based on my own personal interpretation of James Taylor's composition consisting of alternate chord changes as well as changes in the melody structure.

'S Wonderful   (Play The Song)

In memory of my mother who passed away on April 23rd 2003, this is a wonderful Gershwin Standard called 'S Wonderful.  It features the Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz) and the Brush Kit From the Dr. Jazz Kit of the Motif 8 internal sounds.  It is a short selection having the Jazz trio render the arrangement and tune.

"On and On"  (Play The Song)

Here's a slow bossanova  of "On and On" scored for large ensemble. It features The Lead Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar, Trombone, Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax (vib) - in its extreme range.  It is all supported by the Sweet Flute, 18 String Guitar, High and Medium Brass Ensembles, Sax Ensemble and two tracks of DR. Jazz Kit Drums.  The Giga Library includes The Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano, Dan Dean's, Acoustic Bass (pz) and The Garritan Strings. 

"Killer Joe"   (Play The Song)

One of my favorite Benny Golson's Jazz composition (Performed By Quincy Jones) is this next big band arrangement called "Killer Joe".  It features the following Giga library of instruments, the Borsendorfer (#291) Imperial Grand Piano, Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz)  & The Apocalypse Demon Voices.  The Motif 8 internals include, The Sax Ensemble, Medium and High Brass Ensemble, Legend (Muted Trumpet), Sweet Flute and two tracks of drums (Dr. Jazz Kit)  The Solo instruments include and are part of the Motif 8 internals are "Romantic Trumpet", Trombone & Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar. (A ripping solo if I might add)

"It's Too Late"   (Play The Song)

Here's a real Jazzy Song-Arrangement of Carol King's "It's Too Late".  This arrangement features Lead Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar, Alto Sax (vib), Trombone & Romantic Trumpet. It is supported by The following Giga Library of instruments, Borsendorfer (#291) Imperial Grand Piano, Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass (pz)  & The Apocalypse Now Male Chorus. The Motif 8 internals include, The Sax Ensemble, Medium and High Brass Ensemble and two tracks pf drums (Dr. Jazz Kit)

"How My Heart Sings"   (Play The Song)

Here's my 10 piece Jazz Ensemble of Dave Brubeck's "How My Heart Sings.  My favorite rendition is of the late Bill Evans.  I scored it  for Lead Piano (Borsendorfer), Alto Sax (vib) and Trombone.  It is supported by the Sax Ensemble, Medium Brass.  Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass and drums.  This is in a Jazz Waltz Tempo - 160 beats per minute.

"My Romance"   (Play The Song)

In honor Of Jim Stang's great Programming and Tweaking of his Trumpet4Alan and Trombone4Alan, I have arranged a little swing
number called "My Romance". It features the Best Sampled Piano in my book, The Borsendorfer (Model #290) Imperial Grand Piano created by WWW.Bardstownaudio.com (Ask For Kip). The Solos following the Borsendorfer Imperial Grand Piano are Jims "Trumpet4Alan" and his "Trombone4Alan" Everything is supported by Dan Dean's Accoustic Bass and Two Tracks of Dr Jazz Kit Drums.

"Betcha By Golly Wow"   (Play The Song)

One of the finest  Stylistics rock ballads is my next song-arrangement.  It is scored for large ensemble and features "The Romantic Trumpet",  "Trombone",  "JimsTenor4Alan". (Reprogrammed by Jim Stang) & Alto Sax (vib).  It is all supported by "The Garritan Strings", Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass, High & Low Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble, Sweet Flute, Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar, Strum Guitar & Two Tracks of Drums (Dr. Jazz Kit).  The score features a very lyrical (Quasi-Chicago) interlude played by the Hi and Lo Brass Ensembles.

"The Times Of Your Life"     Play The Song)

Paul Anka has always written many great melodies. Here's an arrangement of a very dear song of his called "The Times Of Your Life" A.K.A. The Kodak Theme. This song arrangement is a combination of GigaStudio 160 and the Motif 8 internal sounds featuring The Alto Sax (vib), Trombone and Romantic Trumpet. It is all supported by "The Garritan Strings", Dan Dean's Acoustic Bass, High & Low Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble, Sweet Flute & Two Tracks of Drums (Dr. Jazz Kit)

"Something"     (Retired)

The is a large ensemble arrangement of a wonderful Beatles Classic called "Something".  It features the wonderful Alto Sax (vib), The Garritan Strings, Jazz Giga Bass, High & Medium Brass Ensembles, Sax Ensemble, Trombone, Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar & Two Tracks of Drums.  The Romantic Trumpet has the Second Solo. Let's not forget "The Bosendorfer Imperial Grand Piano" 

"Yardbird Suite"   (Retired)

This Big Band Arrangement of "Yardbird Suite" written by the late Charlie Parker & Gerry Mulligan represents an old jazz standard for the beboppers.  This is the first Jazz-Arrangement which includes two wonderful Giga library files (Borsendorfer 9 1/2 foot Imperial Grand Piano and the Jazz Bass.  Also included are the Motif 8 internal sounds consisting of  the High and Medium Brass Ensembles including the Sax Ensemble, Trombone & Romantic trouble blowing the choruses &  two tracks of percussion.  The Trombone leads the Sax Section with the opening melody adding a nice touch to the layer of sounds.

"God Bless The USA"   (Retired)

Here's a big band arrangement of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA" This song-arrangement is dedicated to a beloved family member of ours who perished on September 11th 2001 on the 104th floor of the North Tower.  The solos include the "Guitar Tremlo-Jazz Guitar, "Trombone", "Alto Sax" (vib) and the "Romantic Trumpet"  having a huge lead in this score. I have included the Background Strings, Sweet Flute, Strum Guitar, Organ: 16+8+5&1/3, High and Medium Brass Ensembles including the Sax Ensemble, Power Grand, Stand-up Bass and two tracks of percussion. 

"With a Little Help From My Friends"  (Retired)

In keeping with the "Beatles" tradition, Here's a Big Band Arrangement of "With A Little Help From My Friends" A Slow & sweet Background String, Harmonica, & Sweet Flute introduction and closing statement encompasses the outer perimeters of this song-arrangement. The Main solo instruments include "Jazz: Gtmelo-Guitar",  "The Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax (vib) and the vibrant Trombone. The entire arrangement is backed by the High and Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble, Power Grand, Stand up Bass" and I also included the Organ: 16+8+5&1/3 for an extra layer. As with the introduction, the song concludes with a slight variation of the intro having a slight accelerando in the Background Strings and the "Solo Harmonica". 

"Moon River"   (Play The Song)

Here's a classic Mancini standard "Moon River".   I was toying with the idea of having this big band arrangement as a Bossa-Nova  while contemplating the groove either being a ballad, Jazz Waltz or a Latin feel.  The original is in 3/4 time but here we have it in 4/4 featuring the Sweet Flute, Legend (muted trumpet), Trombone and finally the Alto Sax (vib) brings it home.   The score is supported by the High & Medium Brass, G-Trmlo Guitar, Sax Ensemble, Power Grand, Stand Up Bass & two tracks of percussion.

"Here, There & Everywhere"   (Play The Song)

A Classic Beatles Ballad called "Here, There and Everywhere" composed by Lennon/McCartney has always been a meaningful song in the lives of all profound relationships. This arrangement is more interpretive in nature which allowed me to utilize many colors and supportive themes thus allowing a bit more originality to the score The supporting lead instruments include the "Sweet Flute", G-Trmlo Guitar and an extensive Alto Sax (vib) solo. The chordal & Rhythmic support and counter melodies are accredited to the "Background Strings",  "Soft Brass", "High Brass", "Power Grand Piano", "Stand Up Bass" and two tracks of assorted percussive instruments. 

"Four Brothers"   (Play The Song)

Here's a 7 piece ensemble Jazz arrangement of Jimmy Giuffre's "Four Brothers" featuring Lead Jazz Guitar, Alto Sax, Trombone, Vibraphone, Power Grand Piano, Standup Bass and Drums. For the record the the brothers were Herbie Steward, Zoot Sims, Jimmy Giuffre and Stan Getz.  It is interesting to note how the Motif 8 can actually handle and emulate the feel of a smaller Jazz ensemble of the 1940's  thru the present. I have always wanted to arrange this Jazz standard and here it is as an upbeat tempo.

"Macarthur Park"   (Retired)

Macarthur Park (A masterpiece) composed by Jimmy Webb is a legend and ranks as one of the finest compositions of all times. I have always wanted to tackle this melody by arranging it for Big Band which features Lead Trombone, 
Alto Sax (vib) Solo, Jazz Guitar, and Romantic Trumpet. The Sax, Medium Brass and Brass, High Brass, Background String Ensembles, Sweet Flute, Bass, Congas and Drums.  

"Your Song"   (Play The Song)

This next big band arrangement "Your Song" was composed by Elton John. There are many interpretations of the melody and chord structure and I've offered my own with two lyrical transitions. The arrangement features the Alto Sax, (vib) Romantic Trumpet, Trombone and a return of the Alto Sax vib) The Sax Ensemble, Medium & High Brass Ensembles with the Sweet Flute, Stand Up Bass and two tacks of assorted Drums lend all of the support, fills
and harmonies.

"Teach Me Tonight"  (Retired)

"Teach Me Tonight" features the Alto Sax (vib) accompanied by the Medium Brass, High Brass, Sax Ensemble,
Background Strings, Sweet Flute, Stand-Up Bass and Drums.  I was inspired to write this arrangement after hearing the marvelous Al Jareau perform it in Las Vegas.

"Time After Time"   (Play The Song)

This Big Band Arrangement features the Romantic Trumpet playing the entire lead and solo accompanied by the Medium Brass Ensemble, Sax Ensemble, Sweet Flute, Power Grand Piano, Stand-up Bass and Drums.  It has a few lyrical and bluesy transitions moving it along for color and layers.

"What Matters Most"   (Play The Song)

Here's a small ensemble arrangement of My favorite Vocalist and Guitarist "Kenny Rankin" called  "What Matters Most" (composed by Kenny Rankin) It features (2) Power Grand Pianos, Stand up Bass, Sweet Flute and G-Trmlo-Guitar Leads, Back Ground Strings, French Horn Ensemble and Light Drums. 

"Don't You Worry About A Thing"  (Retired)

"Don't You Worry About A Thing" (composed by Stevie Wonder) I scored it for big band with a Latin feel over two drum tracks of DR. Jazz Kit. It features the Alto Sax (vib), Romantic Trumpet, and Trombone solos. The Medium Brass leads the melody with the Sax and High Brass Ensembles filling the grooves. The G-Trmlo-Guitar adds an additional color with the Power Grand Piano filling in a few phrases.

"Whisper Not"  (Retired) 

"Whisper Not" is a great Jazz standard composed by Benny Golson. This Big Band arrangement features
many solo instruments in the following order: Alto Sax, (vib) Romantic Trumpet, G-Trmlo-Guitar and Trombone. 
The ensembles include, Sax Ensemble, Medium Brass ensemble and the High Brass Ensemble. 

"It Might As Well Be Spring"  (Play The Song)

It might As Well Be Spring is a wonderful song composed by Rodgers & Hammerstein in 1945.
I was always inspired by the way Maynard Ferguson did this song and here is my own arrangement and rendition.

I scored this big band arrangement for 13 Midi tracks which included the Power Grand, Stand up Bass, Sweet Flute,
Alto Sax, (vib) G-Trmlo-Guitar, Romantic Trumpet, Background Strings, Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble, Legend Trumpet, Celeste, Wire Brushes, & Ride Cymbal. There are lots of layers and colors to listen to here.

"Bernies Tune"  (Retired)

Here is a big band arrangement of "Bernies Tune" from the "Bebop" period of Jazz.  It features the JazzGTmelo Guitar, Trombone, Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax (Vib) and The Power Grand.  The Guitar is in control & the Trumpet are in control of the main solos while the Medium Brass and High Brass Ensembles along with the Sax Ensemble truly add swing to the arrangement.  The Stand up Bass and Drums are the rhythmic support.

"All the Way"  (Play The Song)

This next big band arrangement  (Ballad) of "All the Way" composed by Sammy Cahn (1957) being one of Frank Sinatra's prime composers features the Romantic Trumpet followed by the Alto Sax (Vib) solo chorus.  It begins with the Background Strings and the Sweet Flute setting the mood.  The Power Grand and Stand up Bass set the tempo. The Sax and Medium Brass ensembles lend a hand to the melodic fills along with the strings in the upper register.  The Legend Trumpet adds a treble layer to to the brass ensemble for color.  It concludes with an echo, fade and flutter from the Strings and the Sweet Flute.

"That's All"  (Play The Song)

Pull up a soft chair and get a drink, this is a ballad..

This Ballad Called "That's All" composed and written by Bob Haymes & Alan Brandt 1952 the year I was born is my first 2003 big band arrangement. It features the JazzGTmelo Guitar, Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax (vib) and finally the Trombone. The ensembles include the Medium Brass, Sax Ensemble and Background Strings. Addtionally I added a Baritone Sax and the Legend (Muted) trumpet. The stand up Bass is included with very light drums. I have always adored this melody and I know TWO other people in this world that the song is very special too.

"Jordu"  (Retired)

An old Jazz Classic called “Jordu” written by Duke Jordan and performed by Max Roach and Clifford Brown is my last big
Band arrangement (for year 2002) featuring 3 solo instruments; Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax (vib) and the G-Tremlo Guitar. The ensembles include the Med Brass (for the trombones), the High Brass for the trumpets and the Sax Ensemble. The rhythm section includes the drums, Bass and Congas. I’d like to point out that I did a slight variation on the chordal structure of the bridge.

"Stella By Starlight"  (Play The Song)

Here's a Big Band Arrangement of "Stella By Starlight" (Composed by Victor Young) featuring three solo instruments, the Romantic Trumpet, Alto Sax, (Vib) and the Trombone. The instrumentation also includes the Legend Trumpet, Med Brass ensemble, Sax ensemble and also a multi-voiced Trombone section supported all by the Power Grand, Stand-Up Bass and drums. (Congas included)

"A Foggy Day"  (Retired)

This second take of Foggy Day needed an overhaul in the percussive track to clean out a few undesirable snare drum hits and a revision in the congas. It's nice to know a professional drummer who can critique your work from time to time..

Thanks Ed!

A Foggy Day written by George Gershwin was loads of fun to work on. This is a big band arrangement featuring the follow solos in order:

Power Grand Piano
Trumpet romantic
Trombone
Alto Sax (Vib)

Somebody in this forum requested a big band arrangement to include a piano solo, so I've included it in this arrangement.

Ensembles include:

High Brass
Trombones
Sax Ensemble

Also included:

Drums
Slap Bass

"Soon It's Gonna Rain"  (Retired)

It seems to be a small trio and ballad week for me.

So here it goes:


Power Grand + Stand-up Bass - Very light Drums.
Syncopated melody with closed voiced chords - left hand

"Whatever We Imagine"  (Play The Song)

I have decided to dedicate this arrangement in the memory of one of the most gift saxophonists of all time who lost his life on Dec. 5th 2002 in a tragic car accident on the Eastern end of Long Island Bob Berg ... 1951-2002
He was a classmate of mine from the HS of Performing Arts in Manhattan on 46th ST. (in the 1960's) He will be missed deeply by the entire Jazz Community. www.bobberg.com


"Whatever We Imagine" originally recorded by James Ingram is a wonderful melody chock full
of linear chord changes. Many thirds and sevenths find themselves at the root of the chords adding
colorful dynamics and inner voice movements. A well constructed melody such as this, allows the arranger to easily write many counter-melodies.

I arranged this song for Solo Piano & Stand-up Bass, followed by the Sweet Flute, Alto Sax (Vib) and the Background
Strings This is a nice example of what one can do
using Sonar XL 2.1 when it comes to an arrangement being solely
Accapella or no tempo to consider.

"Wave"   (Play The Song)

Here's a pretty Latin - Boss nova arrangement of Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Wave" I scored it for a smaller ensemble.  It features Scarbee's RSP '73' Fender Rhodes, Bardstownaudio Archtop Guitar, Acoustic Bass, Motif Sax Ensemble and Drums.

"What A Wonderful World"   (Play The Song)

This next arrangement inspired by one of Tony Bennett's (which I had the opportunity of performing with him & "The Four Lads" in Las Vegas at the Riviera in 1977) called "Something" where he holds a baby close to his heart reminds me of the simplicities of life our gifted artists harvest each day.

This arrangement features the Ballad Keys Piano, Stand-up Bass, and drums along with the Alto Sax (Vib) leading the melody, Sweet Flute and Medium brass and background string ensemble.

**Follow up**

The "Ballad Keys" piano was replaced by the Power Grand because I noticed that when you add the background strings and a apply the sustain pedal from time to time with the Ballad Keys piano, the polyphony of the MO just melts away.
This in turn caused a very choppy string sound instead of a true legato effect in the supporting counter melody in the arrangement. I'd like to thank KYLE for pointing the string issue out to me.

This arrangement feature the Alto Sax (vib). There's is no breath controller or WX-5 employed here. (Just the fingers and keys)

"The Way You Look Tonight"   (Retired)

Here's an arrangement of "The Way You Look Tonight" inspired by Steve Tyrell - lead vocal of "Toy Story"
I've featured the terrific internal Alto Sax (VIB) playing the melody followed by "Jazz GTmelo guitar" and the "Sweet Flute" flute on the solo improvs. (The BC-3 was not used in this arrangement.
The Power Grand, Stand-up Bass and drums added the rhythmic and chord support here. I'm looking to add a very light string part a bit later on.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"  (Retired)

This arrangement of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" features the great Trombone in Pre-set 2 taking the melody with brief  improvisations. The great Alto Sax (vib) from Pre-set 2 takes a whirl at the bridge followed by a Harmonica Solo (GM). I used the Piano-String from Pre-set 1, stand up bass and light drums as the support. I also included a few light sweet flutes & Celeste and the background strings. The Solo Trombone closes the tune.

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