(Level III) The Star-Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key, arranged by Scott Arcangel. This charts sticks to the traditional melody and phrasing of the US National Anthem, with several meter changes that allow the phrases to breathe. Starting out as a traditional brass chorale with a slight reharmonization, the saxophones join in and alto 2 takes the lead on a gospel-tinged bridge. It closes out with a broad, full-ensemble finale that is sure to bring any audience to its feet. Very playable by jazz ensembles of any level, lead trumpet up to high C above staff. Written for and performed by the West Point Band’s Jazz Knights. (8 Brass)


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SCOTT ARCANGEL is currently the pianist and musical director of the West Point Band’s Jazz Knights, one of the Army’s premiere jazz ensembles.  As musical director of the Jazz Knights, Scott has had the opportunity to collaborate with a number of world-class musicians and composers.  Prior to joining the West Point Band, Scott studied with the renowned faculty of the University of North Texas.  Scott’s music has been performed by big bands, high school and college jazz ensembles, and by numerous small groups.  He is active as a performer and educator, having given clinics on arranging, improvisation, and ensemble performance at various colleges, festivals and music conferences.  He has studied composition and arranging with Bret Zvacek, Anita Brown and Michael Abene.