Water Sign big band arrangement by Bill Fulton

Description

Jeff Lorber Big Band Chart fans will enjoy this arrangement of “Water Sign,” the jazz-funk composition by Jeff Lorber. Arranged for full big band by Bill Fulton, the chart brings Lorber’s distinctive fusion sound into a powerful large-ensemble setting while keeping the rhythmic energy and character of the original music.

Originally released on Jeff Lorber Fusion’s 1979 album Water Sign, the composition reflects the blend of jazz, funk, and contemporary electric sounds that helped define Lorber’s early work. Bill Fulton has long admired that period of jazz fusion, and this arrangement translates its energy into a setting designed for a modern big band.

Jeff Lorber Big Band Chart with a Funk-Fusion Groove

The arrangement gives the horn section an active role while the rhythm section establishes the characteristic funk foundation. Saxes, trumpets, and trombones work together with guitar, keyboards, electric bass, and drums to create a full ensemble sound.

In addition, the chart features Tenor Sax 1 and Trumpet 2, giving individual players opportunities to step forward within the ensemble. The writing balances featured material with ensemble passages, so the arrangement remains engaging for both performers and listeners.

Water Sign Jazz-Fusion Big Band Arrangement

“Water Sign” is especially well suited to ensembles that enjoy jazz-fusion repertoire. The combination of electric rhythm-section textures and traditional big band instrumentation gives directors an alternative to straight-ahead swing charts while still providing substantial horn writing.

Because the arrangement draws directly from the language of late-1970s jazz fusion, it can also add stylistic variety to a concert program. Furthermore, the energetic groove provides a strong contrast to ballads, swing selections, and more traditional jazz ensemble repertoire.

Instrumentation

• 5 saxophones
• 4 trumpets
• 4 trombones
• Guitar
• Piano/keyboard
• Electric bass
• Drums

This instrumentation gives the arrangement the weight of a traditional big band while preserving the electric character associated with Jeff Lorber’s music.

More Big Band Arrangements

Explore more big band arrangements and charts by Bill Fulton for additional jazz, funk, fusion, pop, and contemporary ensemble music.

For background on the original recording and Jeff Lorber Fusion’s music, visit the official Jeff Lorber Water Sign album page.

Instrumentation:

• 5 Saxes
• 4 Trumpets
• 4 Trombones
• Guitar
• Piano/Keyboard
• Electric Bass
• Drums