TubeNet

I need some suggestions on some small ensemble music. I have been tasked by my father-in-law to find some music for grandma's 80th birthday party to be played by her adult grandchildren (my wife and her siblings and cousins). He would prefer something in a big band style if possible. Here is what I have to work with:

1 very talented violin
1 ok violin/viola (if we can get our hands on a viola)
2 decent trombones
me: tuba, euphonium, trombone or drum set

I'm defiantly capable of transposing/rewriting a part to fit the needs, I'm just having trouble finding a decent arrangement that isn't too difficult or to childish sounding. I've been combing through the Sibelius Score Exchange website for a few hours with little luck. I did find a nice arrangement of "Just a Closer Walk with Thee," but I think he wants a little more big bandish sound if possible.

Thanks.

How about brass quintet music?

I'm going to use the string quartet version of "Just a Closer Walk with Thee" and transpose the viola part for the trombones so we'll do 1st violin, 2nd violin, trombone, and me on tuba. If the sax cousin decides to participate then I'll double him on the 2nd violin part. Not ideal, but it will bring a big smile to grandma's face and in the end that's what matters.

Not to splash cold water on your plans, but have you considered that playing what some [N Orleans, in particular] would call a funeral tune for an 8o-yo might be a bit of a downer? Just sayin'!

scottw wrote:Not to splash cold water on your plans, but have you considered that playing what some [N Orleans, in particular] would call a funeral tune for an 8o-yo might be a bit of a downer? Just sayin'!

I had not thought of it that way, but I'll still bet that my wife's grandmother would get a big kick out of that one.