Nighthawks little big band arrangement by Bill Fulton

Description

Nighthawks – 3/4 Funk Little Big Band Chart

Nighthawks is a 3/4 funk little big band chart composed and arranged by Bill Fulton. Driven by an unusual funk groove in three, this original composition combines elements of jazz, funk, and jazz waltz writing. As a result, it gives a small horn ensemble a distinctive rhythmic sound that stands apart from a conventional swing or straight-eighth chart.

The piece was originally written for a television pilot in the early 1990s. Although the show was not picked up, the composition survived and later became part of Bill Fulton’s repertoire. In 2009, Nighthawks appeared on the album About 12:00am.

A Funk Groove in 3/4 Time

The defining feature of this 3/4 funk little big band chart is its rhythmic feel. Rather than treating 3/4 as a traditional jazz waltz, the arrangement uses the meter as the foundation for a funk-oriented groove. Therefore, the rhythm section has an important role in establishing the character of the piece.

Meanwhile, the horn writing adds color and ensemble energy without requiring a full-size big band. Alto saxophone doubles on flute, while tenor saxophone, trumpet, and trombone complete the four-horn section. Guitar, piano, bass, and drums provide the rhythm section.

Flute and Piano Features

Nighthawks also includes featured moments for flute and piano. The flute adds a contrasting color to the four-horn instrumentation. In addition, the piano feature gives the keyboard player an opportunity to step forward within the arrangement.

Because of its unusual combination of meter, groove, and instrumentation, Nighthawks can work well as a change of pace in a jazz concert or festival program. It is especially suited to ensembles looking for contemporary material beyond standard swing repertoire.

Instrumentation

• Alto Sax / Flute
• Tenor Sax
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• Guitar
• Piano / Keyboard
• Bass
• Drums

Explore More Little Big Band Charts

If you are looking for more music written for compact horn sections, browse the Little Big Band Arrangements and Charts collection. You can also explore the Bill Fulton Music website for additional arrangements, original compositions, and music-production credits.

For more background on funk as a musical style, visit the Funk overview on Wikipedia.

Genre

Jazz waltz, funk, jazz.

Instrumentation:

• Alto sax/Flute
• Tenor sax
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• Guitar
• Piano/Keyboard
• Bass
• Drums

Genre: jazz waltz