Here’s an ever-growing list of great resources that will really help you help your students.
Starting or building a combo program?
Then you have to check out the Real Easy Books, published by Sher Music. There are different books for the different transpositions, and the books usually include some basic arrangements, plus grooves and ideas for the rhythm section. There are currently three volumes AND a Latin volume. They also offer a drum supplement book.There are some great tunes in these books, and some of them are suitable for more advanced groups as well.
Need warmups? Ask Mike! (Kamuf!)
My buddy Mike Kamuf (an amazing composer, by the way!) was a superb middle school director. I’ve seen several of his clinics at various conferences, and they’re always spot on. His warmups are available on his website, and definitely worth a look.
For Middle School/Emerging Jazz Band Directors
Bob Athayde was a very successful music educator at Lafayette middle school for many years (see the link to his bio, below.). He has assembled an excellent list of recommended middle school charts that I think you’ll find very useful. These are also appropriate for B bands or emerging jazz programs.
He also does clinics anywhere in the U.S., FOR FREE! His travel, lodging, and clinician fee are all generously covered by the Julia Burke Foundation, so you school pays nothing. This is an incredible opportunity for you and your students! For info on these clinics, contact Bob directly.
Stay tuned for more!