Archival Video Samples of Previous Projects

Below you will find various video examples of performances incorporating Musa Canta Music arrangements. In each case the arrangements were specifically designed - either transcribed or recomposed - for the particular performing ensemble.  All of the pieces below are ready and available for sale.
"Them That Got" was commissioned by "Big Foot" Bob Schultz to perform with the People's Jazz Band at the 2012 Flint Jazz Festival. This arrangement was another hybrid arrangement/transcription, adapted to fit the needs (and unique instrumentation) of the vocalist and the ensemble.

The following three videos are from the Potomec School in McLean, VA. Their band director required several arrangements for a uniquely staffed big band: 5 saxes, 4 trumpets, 2 trombones, tuba, vibes, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. The director was looking for music that was relevant, pedagogically sound, and that would provide ample opportunity for his students to shine in both improvisational and section writing.
"Mr. Gentle, Mr. Cool" is a Duke Ellington original transcribed from a live performance. Though originally featuring Ray Nance on violin (amongst others), this adaptation/arrangement was designed to "sound good" with the unique instrumentation provided.







"Zat You, Santa Claus" was originally performed by Louis Armstrong. This transcription/arrangement again had to meet the needs of the ensemble. The novelty piece of sorts, it provides ample room for the student vocalist to present his craft, and it provides the band with the experience of backing a vocalist in this idiom.







"Pilgrimage" is a gospel tune by renowned organist Dr. Lonnie Smith. Though quite simple in form and context, the arrangement is written to feature soloists in each section. (There is a larger brass intro not heard in this video that takes the lead trumpet up to a high "C.") Once again this transcription/arrangement, faithful to the original recording, presents the students with an opportunity to perform in a different style.
The following two videos are from the Society Deluxe Jazz Orkestra in Brazil. Paulo Godi, their music director, leads an ensemble comprised of 3 saxes, 3 brass, guitar, bass, and drums.
"Wanin' Moon" is a modern jazz tune by Nicola Conte. This original arrangement includes a newly composed counter-melody against the primary melody, with inventive backgrounds that build in intensity behind the soloists.









"Addi" is a Duke Ellington original adapted from a his "Togo Brava Suite." This version was designed as an alto saxophone feature.