Organizing charts for an 8-piece mini big band offers the opportunity to create a big, lush sound with a streamlined setup. Here’s a guide to crafting arrangements that highlight the unique strengths of each section and maximize your ensemble’s impact.
1. Understand Your Lineup
In an 8-piece band, a common setup might include:
4 horns (e.g., trumpet, trombone, alto sax, and tenor sax)
4 rhythm section players (piano, guitar, bass, drums)
This arrangement allows for richer harmonies in the horn section while keeping the rhythm section tight and flexible. With 8 players, you have a wider range to explore full harmonies, counterpoints, and even distinct sectional voices.
2. Build on Four-Part Harmonies
With four horns, arranging close, four-part harmonies becomes easier, allowing the band to replicate the lushness of a full big band section. This setup also provides more flexibility for solos and call-and-response patterns within the horn section. Arrangements can feature three-part harmonies with one horn playing a melody line or counterpoint for added complexity.
3. Use Dynamic Counterpoint
Counterpoint is essential in adding movement and creating fullness without additional players. For example, the saxes can play interlocking lines beneath a brass melody, or a trumpet and tenor sax can handle the melody while the trombone and alto sax create a secondary melodic or rhythmic layer. This interplay enhances the band’s sound and keeps arrangements lively and engaging.
4. Explore Doubling for Texture
If some players are proficient in doubling, use it to expand the tonal palette. Doubling on clarinet, flute, or even muted instruments gives extra layers and can add a unique character to each piece. This technique is especially effective in ballads or Latin-inspired charts, where a variety of timbres can evoke a larger ensemble feel.
5. Emphasize the Rhythm Section’s Role
The rhythm section is crucial in an 8-piece band—they drive the groove and provide harmonic support. Alternating solos between the pianist and guitarist can keep the rhythm section active without overshadowing the horns. The drummer and bassist can also adapt to different styles within each piece, such as switching between swing, Latin, or funk grooves, to add variety and keep each song dynamic.
6. Leverage Dynamic and Textural Contrasts
In an 8-piece setting, dynamic contrasts and textural shifts add excitement and energy to the music. Begin with solos or duet sections, bringing in the full band for crescendos or the main theme, which creates an impactful contrast. Utilizing softer sections with just the rhythm section, or fewer horns, and gradually building to a full band sound provides a dramatic arc that mimics the excitement of a larger ensemble.
7. Pick Repertoire that Maximizes Group Potential
Choose or adapt pieces that allow for both ensemble hits and small group interplay. Arrangements that leave space for individual expression—through solos or trading phrases—will help keep the audience engaged and give each band member a chance to shine. Focus on jazz standards or swing tunes that naturally fit the group’s energy and allow for dynamic variation.
8. Incorporate the Band’s Input
With an 8-piece group, collaboration is key to a tight performance. Allowing room for creative suggestions from each member, especially when arranging solos or adding fills, fosters a stronger bond within the group. Everyone feels invested in the music, which translates to a more cohesive sound and dynamic performance.
With an 8-piece band, you can create a big band experience with a modern, compact twist. By balancing harmony, counterpoint, and dynamic contrast, your ensemble can deliver a powerful sound that captivates the audience.
Hopefully this gives more insight into our 8 piece mini big band. We are grateful to our arrangers Harry Smallenburg and Rock Davis and other guest arrangers from time to time and for special projects.
Angela Mae O’Neill