Little Brown Jug

Standard jazz ensemble (playable by 3 saxes, 3 brass plus rhythm section) with opt. tuba & vibes

First released in 1954, this setting of the 19th-century folk song popularized by Glenn Miller in 1939 begins with an 8-bar marcato intro before settling into the familiar swing groove. The thematic build is gradual and dramatic - saxes alone, then saxes with trombones, then saxes, trombones and trumpets together - and the finishing shout is loud and strong. All rhythm section parts are fully notated, brass ranges are very accessible (G5 trumpet, F4 trombone), and no improvisation is required. Duration 2:05