Choosing Jazz Literature

Most music educators can probably remember several moments as young musicians when they realized they had just played or heard an amazing composition. Educators must recall how playing amazing music affected them as young musicians and then seek to provide the same experiences for their students. This chapter discusses the selection of appropriate literature for jazz ensemble study and performance. Finding a great combination of program selections is a fun challenge, and readers will find ways to research the many choices available. The chapter includes helpful information regarding many facets of literature selection, including narrowing the search, using resources to research possible selections, realistically evaluating the teaching situation, selecting music to match the band, selecting repertoire to represent a variety of styles, instrumentation and doubling considerations, and budget considerations.