Compositions

Big Band Chart Descriptions
Email: mastymusic17@gmail.com
(203) 494-0358

Many of my big band compositions are available through ejazzlines
Abrasive to You
Level: Medium Difficult
Yes, the pun is intended! This straight-ahead swing chart is inspired by Gershwin’s classic Embraceable You. It features a conversation between drums and unison ensemble, a swingin’ shout chorus, and solos for trumpet, tenor sax, and anyone else you’d like to feature. Some woodwind doubles (Alto Saxes double on flute - Tenor Saxes double on clarinet). Lead trumpet to written F6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.

Aerobics Blues
Level: Medium
Here’s a great medium tempo blues that is a wonderful vehicle for featuring any number of soloists. It features soprano and tenor sax playing a very interesting melodic line, some tricky unison band licks that will definitely keep your band “in the shed,” and a shout chorus with some fresh harmonic twists. Lead trumpet to written D 6. Not yet recorded.

Bug Juice
Level: Medium
This swingin’ shuffle was commissioned by Laurel Music Camp for the occasion of their 75th Anniversary. This very playable chart also features a section with a 12/8 feel that makes for great contrast. An open solo section gives you plenty of options and you’ll love the “bluesy” interplay between sections in the shout chorus. Lead trumpet to written C 5. Not yet recorded.

Calm Before the Storm
Level: Medium Difficult
This lush ballad features a contrapuntal section with 5 independent lines and a gorgeous ensemble passage to close things out. There is an open piano solo that may be played as written, or give your pianist a chance to stretch. Solos for trombone and flugel horn and exquisite woodwind writing complete the package. All saxes double, but optional sax parts are provided. Trumpet to written E 6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.

Changes Over Time
Level: Medium
Feature your alto saxophonist on this beautiful ballad. A lyrical melody coupled with some interesting harmonic twists provide a challenging vehicle for a mature soloist. The alto is featured throughout along with a tutti ensemble passage that brings the chart to a dramatic finish. Trumpet to written E 6. As recorded by the John Mastroianni Quartet on Live at the Silvermine.

Four of a Kind
Level: Medium-Difficult
This medium tempo jazz waltz features a trio of soprano sax, tenor sax, and trombone. The trio states the melody and is prominent in the solo section as well. Major triads with changing bass notes and pedal points with colorful chords above them give the piece an intriguing harmonic flavor. It also provides a vehicle for the rhythm section to explore various permutations of the harmonic rhythm. Lead trumpet to written D 6. Not yet recorded.

His Dreams
Composed by Joe Lovano; arranged by John Mastroianni
Level: Medium Difficult
John has arranged this beautiful jazz waltz composed by Joe Lovano especially for a performance with Joe as soloist. It features tenor or soprano sax with optional space for piano and bass as well. There are wonderful sonorities in the brass passages and the entire band shines in the development of the chart. Check out the awesome themes stated by the bari sax, bass, and bass trombone. Lead trumpet to written C# 6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.

Interstate Parking Lot
Level: Difficult
Here’s a tour de force that will challenge any mature band. It features some straight 8th feels, but predominantly samba and swing grooves. This is a great vehicle for the rhythm section and horns to really show of their chops. Enjoy the trading fours between sections of the band followed by an ensemble soli with no rhythm section. Solos for tenor sax, soprano sax, and trombone. Not for the faint of heart! Lead trumpet to written E 6. As recorded by the Sonny Costanzo Jazz Orchestra.

Just Lookin’
Level: Medium-Difficult
This medium swing tune gives your saxophone section a chance to shine with a swingin’ soli that incorporates some group improvisation. The chart opens and closes with drums playing the melody and the shout chorus makes clever use of melodic fragments of the tune. You’ll love the interplay between sections throughout. Lead trumpet to written D 6. As recorded by the John Mastroianni Quartet on Live at the Silvermine.

Last Stop, Grand Central
Level: Difficult
Here’s a real barn burner! The chart alternates between a fast swing and a 12/8 Afro-Cuban groove. The initial statement of the melody features 2 altos and 2 trumpets. There are many interesting contrapuntal lines and a screamin’ shout chorus. Solos for trumpet, alto, and piano. Lead trumpet to written F 6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.

A Lonely Thought
Level: Medium Difficult
Here is a slightly esoteric ballad that features a lyrical flugel horn solo and a free section that allows the tenor saxophone to stretch out a bit. The chart also features lovely woodwind writing and a soaring lead trumpet solo over the final ensemble shout. Any mature ensemble will enjoy the opportunities for freedom of expression. Lead trumpet to written G 6. Not yet recorded.

Nasty Masty
Level: Difficult
Here’s a burning minor blues that will showcase and challenge any advanced ensemble. This chart provides more than ample solo space and is a wonderful vehicle for the drummer who plays the melody at the top of the chart. Muted brass work creates some cool sonorities and a rousing shout chorus takes you home. Thanks to my college buddy Marshall for the nickname and inspiration. Lead trumpet to written D 6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.

A Quiet Bossa
Level: Medium-Difficult
This sometimes not so quiet bossa really gives the rhythm section the opportunity to incorporate some different straight 8th note feels. It features the unique combination of soprano sax and trombone with solo space for each. There are many wonderful colors and textures in this piece as well as many beautiful ensemble sections. Doubling is required in the reed section. Lead trumpet to written G 6. Not yet recorded.

Someday
Level: Medium
This chart feature alto sax and integral ensemble backgrounds. It begins with a rubato section for alto and piano, moves to a double time swing in the solo section, and returns to the ballad feel at the end. Inspired by my teacher, the incomparable Phil Woods! Lead trumpet to written D 6. As recorded by the John Mastroianni Quartet.

Waltzin' With Wolves
Level: Medium-Difficult
This medium tempo jazz waltz features a trio of soprano sax, tenor sax, and trombone. The trio states the melody and is prominent in the solo section as well. Major triads with changing bass notes and pedal points with colorful chords above them give the piece an intriguing harmonic flavor. It also provides a vehicle for the rhythm section to explore various permutations of the harmonic rhythm. Lead trumpet to written D6. As recorded by the New England Jazz Ensemble.