Arranging and composing for big bands

Arranging and composing for big bands involves creating music tailored for large jazz or orchestral groups, typically with multiple saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section. An arranger adapts existing melodies or ideas into a full, balanced score, deciding who plays what and when, specifying harmony, rhythm, and dynamics. Composing involves writing new music from scratch. Both require understanding each instrument’s capabilities and how to blend them harmoniously, shaping the overall sound and mood. This process transforms a simple tune into a dynamic, textured performance suitable for a large ensemble, emphasizing clarity, balance, and musical storytelling.