Ziggy Stardust (David Bowie) Big Band Chart | Bill Fulton Music

Description

🎧 Ziggy Stardust big band demo

This Ziggy Stardust big band arrangement by Bill Fulton brings David Bowie’s classic song into a full big band setting with male vocal. The chart combines the character of the original song with the power, color, and range of a traditional jazz orchestra.

Written for five saxes, four trumpets, four trombones, and rhythm section, the arrangement gives the ensemble a substantial big band sound while keeping the vocal at the center of the performance. It works well for concert programs, pops performances, themed shows, and ensembles looking for familiar rock repertoire presented in a large-ensemble format.

Ziggy Stardust Big Band Arrangement Instrumentation

The arrangement uses standard full big band forces:

• 2 alto saxophones
• 2 tenor saxophones
• Baritone saxophone
• 4 trumpets
• 4 trombones
• Guitar
• Keyboard
• Bass
• Drums
• Male vocal

This instrumentation gives the chart plenty of tonal variety. The saxophone section provides warmth and flexibility, while the brass sections add weight and impact. Meanwhile, guitar, keyboard, bass, and drums maintain the rhythmic foundation needed for the song’s rock character.

David Bowie for Full Big Band and Vocal

Bill Fulton’s Ziggy Stardust big band arrangement adapts the song for a large ensemble without turning it into a conventional swing chart. Instead, the writing allows the band to support the vocal with a broad palette of ensemble textures while preserving the identity of the Bowie composition.

As a result, the arrangement can add contrast to a jazz concert or vocal big band program. It can also appeal to audiences who know Bowie’s music but may not expect to hear it performed by a full horn section.

A Rock Classic Reimagined for Big Band

“Ziggy Stardust” became one of the signature songs associated with David Bowie’s early-1970s glam-rock period. This arrangement offers directors and singers a way to present that material through a completely different instrumental setting.

Before purchasing, listen to the Ziggy Stardust big band demo to hear the overall approach. You can also browse more big band arrangements by Bill Fulton for additional vocal and instrumental charts.

Big Band Charts by Bill Fulton

Bill Fulton writes arrangements for professional, educational, and performance ensembles in a range of styles. If you are building a program around contemporary songs, vocal features, jazz standards, or pop repertoire, explore the complete Bill Fulton Music catalog for more arrangements and original music.

Instrumentation:

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

Genre: jazz