Blackbird is an arrangement of the classic Beatles tune. This song has always been very special to me, both in its meaning and in the emotions it conveys. My arrangement should be extremely high energy, in contrast to the original recording. Drums play a crucial role in this regard, setting the tone with a four bar intro.

The band should take care to adhere to all articulations and dynamics. Every note should have motion. The solo section should have an arc, though it must begin at a moderate level of intensity. Make sure to count your rests! The bass solo will provide a considerable challenge; consider working this out in a separate rehearsal. The two bars before letter M should grow immensely, as it leads into a screeching shout section. Lead trumpet can optionally gliss up to a high A in bar 178. The energy remains up through the end up the piece. There is no ritardando at the end.

Enjoy playing this arrangement of Blackbird! It makes for a great opener!

Instrumentation: 17-Piece Big Band — 5 Saxophones (2 Alto Saxes, 2 Tenor Saxes, 1 Baritone Sax), 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Rhythm Section (Piano, Electric Bass, Drums, Guitar)