Ascending

Commissioned by the Gates Chili High School Jazz Ensemble in Rochester (NY), this winning original alternates between a Latin and straight 8th-note feel, and draws from the ascending melodic minor scale and its related modes for source material. It's a sophisticated chart with moderate range demands and notated rhythm section parts. Soloists can navigate the 16-measure solo using just a single scale over hip jazz chords. Duration 6:55.