Somewhere in September – Original Jazz Composition by Bill Fulton

Description

Somewhere in September is an original jazz composition by composer and arranger Bill Fulton. Fulton also created this Somewhere in September composition as a little big band arrangement for four horns and rhythm section. The piece appears on his 2009 album About 12:00am and combines contemporary jazz harmony, melodic writing, and room for improvisation.

This is one of my favorite original compositions. The music features interesting harmonic movement and carefully shaped voice leading without becoming unnecessarily difficult. As a result, musicians can concentrate on phrasing, dynamics, ensemble balance, and improvisation.

Original Composition and 4-Horn Jazz Arrangement

As both composer and arranger, I designed the piece so the melodic and harmonic ideas work naturally within a compact horn section. The arrangement uses alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, and trombone. Together, these four voices create a surprisingly full ensemble sound. Meanwhile, guitar, piano, bass, and drums provide a flexible rhythm-section foundation.

The harmony gives soloists interesting material to explore while remaining accessible. At the same time, the written ensemble passages bring out the character of the original composition. Therefore, Somewhere in September works well for concerts, jazz clubs, school ensembles, and professional little big bands.

Instrumentation

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

Contemporary Jazz Composition for Little Big Band

The Somewhere in September composition offers many of the colors associated with a larger jazz ensemble while keeping the instrumentation practical. In particular, the four-horn writing allows the saxophones, trumpet, and trombone to function as a unified section. However, individual lines still retain clarity and independence.

For groups that enjoy contemporary jazz harmony, melodic ensemble writing, and open solo opportunities, this original Bill Fulton composition provides a distinctive addition to the book. The chart gives musicians interesting material to play while remaining inviting for an audience.

You can explore more little big band arrangements by Bill Fulton. For an expanded horn section, see the 6-horn version of Somewhere in September.

Somewhere in September on About 12:00am

Somewhere in September appears on Bill Fulton’s 2009 album About 12:00am. The recording showcases Fulton as a composer, arranger, producer, and keyboardist. You can hear more of his music on the Bill Fulton audio page or explore additional recording credits in the Bill Fulton discography.

You can also hear About 12:00am on Apple Music.

Genre

Jazz

Instrumentation:

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

Genre: jazz