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Bart Marantz NPR/KERA Jazz Education Interview Click below to listen to the interview Click below to read the article
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Reviews "Treasure Hunt" By: Bob Mintzer Instrumentation: Big Band Publisher: Kendor Music, Inc. Grade: 5 Swing =112 This medium/advanced original is from the very distinguished pen of Bob Mintzer. "Treasure Hunt" showcases tenor sax, trumpet and drums, but they must be strong players on their respective instruments and understand our jazz heritage to pull this challenging chart off. If you decide to perform this piece be prepared to rehearse! "Treasure Hunt" is in both the swing and Latin styles and is nine minutes and fifty seconds of solid music! It will take an advanced band to play the McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison, Elvin Jones rhythm section style written for them. Going from swing to Latin is a challenge in itself. With the almost ten minute duration it is suggested that sectionals take place as part of the total preparation for performance. Don't be caught unaware by Mintzer's writing which at times is deceptively easy-looking. When your ensemble tries to "play" a Minztzer chart they will soon realize that this writing is quite complex and will take careful and studied rehearsal time. But, if the challenges are faced and the piece is well-prepared it will keep the audience on the edge of their seats to the very last note. Top note for trumpet is written B above the staff. Marantz |