Nagasaki big band arrangement by Bill Fulton

Description

Bill Fulton breathes new life into the American jazz classic “Nagasaki” with his dynamic big band arrangement. Featuring a lineup of soprano saxophone and three clarinets, accompanied by three trumpets, two trombones, and a tuba, this rendition captures the essence of the Tin Pan Alley hit from 1928. With the addition of piano, banjo, bass, drums, and optional percussion, Fulton’s arrangement promises a vibrant and spirited performance that pays homage to the timeless appeal of this beloved jazz standard.

Nagasaki big band jazz arrangement by Bill Fulton brings fresh energy to the classic 1928 jazz standard by composer Harry Warren and lyricist Mort Dixon. In particular, this arrangement combines early jazz character with a colorful large-ensemble sound. Moreover, the unusual instrumentation creates textures that differ from those of a conventional modern big band.

The instrumentation features soprano saxophone, three clarinets, three trumpets, two trombones, and tuba. In addition, piano, banjo, bass, and drums complete the rhythm section, while optional percussion can add another layer of color. As a result, the ensemble has a distinctive sound with strong contrasts between the reeds, brass, and rhythm section.

Nagasaki Big Band Jazz Arrangement Instrumentation

Specifically, this arrangement uses the following instrumentation:

• Soprano saxophone
• 3 clarinets
• 3 trumpets
• 2 trombones
• Tuba
• Piano
• Banjo
• Bass
• Drums
• Optional percussion

Because of this instrumentation, the combination of clarinets, soprano saxophone, brass, and tuba gives the chart a strong connection to the sound world of early jazz. Meanwhile, the banjo adds rhythmic definition and period character. Furthermore, the different instrumental families provide plenty of opportunities for contrasting ensemble colors. Consequently, the arrangement offers a bright and distinctive alternative to the standard five-saxophone big band sound.

A Classic Jazz Tune Arranged for Big Band

“Nagasaki” was written in 1928 by Harry Warren and Mort Dixon and subsequently became part of the early jazz repertoire. Over the years, the tune has been performed and recorded by numerous jazz musicians and ensembles. For additional background, you can read more about the composition and its history at JazzStandards.com.

Bill Fulton’s treatment approaches the tune as an energetic ensemble feature. Rather than relying on standard big band instrumentation, the arrangement uses its distinctive combination of reeds and brass to create a colorful orchestral palette. In addition, the tuba and banjo reinforce the early-jazz character of the piece. At the same time, the expanded ensemble provides the weight and excitement associated with large-group jazz.

Performance Possibilities for the Nagasaki Big Band Jazz Arrangement

This Nagasaki big band jazz arrangement can work well for jazz concerts, themed programs, and ensembles looking to add an early-jazz selection to their repertoire. Because the instrumentation differs from that of a typical modern big band, the chart also provides an opportunity to feature clarinet players. Additionally, it allows an ensemble to explore another side of large-ensemble jazz writing.

Throughout the chart, the instrumentation allows the melody, accompaniment, and ensemble figures to move through contrasting instrumental colors. Therefore, the arrangement can provide both musical variety and a change of texture within a concert program. Furthermore, its combination of early-jazz instrumentation and large-ensemble writing can help create contrast alongside more conventional big band selections.

Explore More Big Band Arrangements

If you are building a concert or recording program, explore more big band arrangements and charts by Bill Fulton. Alternatively, you can browse little big band arrangements for music written for smaller horn sections.

Finally, for questions about this arrangement, instrumentation, or other music in the catalog, please contact Bill Fulton Music.

Instrumentation:

• Soprano sax
• 3 Clarinets
• 3 Trumpets
• 2 Trombones
• Tuba
• Piano
• Banjo
• Bass
• Drums
• Percussion (optional)

Genre: dixieland