Heading Home

by Eric Jacobson, arr. by Sam Fettig

Jazz Ensemble Grade 3

ABOUT THE SONG

Heading Home, an original by Eric Jacobson, is an extended 16 bar blues in a boogaloo groove. It has a catchy melody that features a riff-break in the final two measures. The turnaround progression begins in measure 9, with a root movement in whole steps, making this piece a unique and refreshing departure from your typical blues. 

ABOUT THE ARRANGEMENT

This arrangement begins with a unison declaration of the riff that will later conclude the head. The rhythm section then sets up the infectious boogaloo groove. Saxes play the head first at measure 13, while the brass play riff-oriented backgrounds the second time. That brings us to the open solos at measure 33, with backgrounds cued. 

Following that is a battle of solis beginning in measure 55. Each section tries to convince us that their soli is the hippest - until they all come together to play the familiar riff-break.

A full ensemble treatment of the head/melody is followed by an ending that seems reluctant to say goodbye to the familiar riff-break.

Heading Home is a great opportunity to have some fun and stretch out. We hope you enjoy!