Manoir de Mes Reves (Django's Castle)

Jazz Big Band Arrangement. Full Score, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, 2 Baritone Saxophones, 3 Trumpets, 2 Trombones, Bass Trombone, Bass, Drums (Optional)

This beautiful piece by Django Reinhardt and arranged by Bob Brookmeyer appeared on the first Concert Jazz Band album on Verve Records. The parts appear to be copied out quickly by Emile Charlap on customized King Brand 10 stave paper. Reed 4 was originally bass clarinet; there is a note on the part that reads 'Play on Bari,' and the part is indeed played on the baritone saxophone on the recording. The original parts had no written out drum part; the part marked 'drums' is in effect a copy of another part, and there are no drums on the original recording. A optional drum part has been included. Playing this setting with only the string bass is a wonderful challenge that we invite teachers to try, especially if the instrument has no amplification, something Mulligan disliked anyway. The parts themselves are not challenging, so middle school ensembles can study this. The challenge lies in playing the piece in tune, with everyone listening and thinking as one person. Rehearse this once the players are warmed up, and allow the magic to happen.