Upshift

Bring back the 1960s' Rhythm & Blues sound with this funky chart. The bluesy chord progression will remind listeners of such classics as "Unchain My Heart" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." Optional written solos are provided for Electric Piano and Alto Sax, with chord symbols included for those preferring to improvise. Let your rhythm section groove!

Program Notes

This funky Rhythm & Blues chart is driven by a syncopated bass line reminiscent of James Jamerson of Motown Studio fame. As the title suggests, Upshift intensifies as it progresses from a simple call-and-answer motive to thickly harmonized full brass backed by flashy unison sax lines. Optional written solos are provided for Electric Piano and Alto Sax, with chord symbols included for those preferring to improvise.

Grade Level: 4
Copyright: 2023
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 5:00
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Series: Ruby Jazz Series
Category: Jazz Ensemble

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDFs

• Upshift.pdf

Instrumentation

Flute [optional]
Alto Saxophone 1
B-flat Clarinet 1 [optional]
Alto Saxophone 2
B-flat Clarinet 2 [optional]
Tenor Saxophone 1
Tenor Saxophone 2
Baritone Saxophone

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
B-flat Trumpet 3
B-flat Trumpet 4

Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Trombone 4

Electric Guitar [optional Synthesizer]
Electric Piano
Electric Bass [optional Keyboard Bass]
Drums
Vibraphone [optional]