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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 “Next Season" Written and Arranged By: Thomas Matta Instrumentation: Big Band Publisher: Kendor Music *Jazz Journey Series / For Proficient Ensembles Grade 4 1/2 Freely with Even Eights q = 126 $52.00 This flowingly modern even-eighth groove was inspired by Maria Schneider’s “Last Season” and was commissioned by the Rock Valley Community College Jazz Ensemble, Ken Stein, Director. The piece, about 10 minutes long will be a success in performance if certain guide lines are a heard to. First, be as expressive as possible with every element of this original work. This piece is written by Thomas Matta, who has been a successful composer/performer for many years’ and states, “In order to give this music life, you must first get beyond the printed page.” There are dynamic markings that are essential to this work and he suggests that you “make the most out of each gesture.” Anyone who knows Maria Schneider’s work knows that this is what Maria’s work is all about. The opening and closing chorales should be molto expressive, and the soloist should be given complete interruptive freedom. A loose Bossa feel is intended, but the rhythm section should feel free to develop the groove as their taste dictates. Pay careful attention to blending the various instrumental combinations, perhaps by experimenting with varying their dynamic levels amongst the instruments. By doing so, it is possible to achieve a resulting “sum sound” that is grander then the individual voices. This is a very long piece; about 10 minutes in length and the piano parts have special instructions for page turns so as to get your rhythm section flowing as smoothly as the piece is written. “Next Season” is a very good and heart felt composition arranged to make it fitting for the person it is suppose to reflect. In today’s big band arena there are few who come to the table with the spirit and depth of Maria Schneider. Once played, “Next season” will be performed all year around. Top note for trumpet is written E above high C Bart Marant
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