Reed section

Definition

The reed section refers to the group of woodwind instruments that utilize reeds to produce sound, commonly found in big band settings. This section typically includes instruments like the clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone, which contribute to the overall texture and harmonies of big band arrangements. The reed section plays a vital role in blending melodies with brass instruments and providing counterpoint in ensemble performances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The reed section often serves as a bridge between the brass and rhythm sections, enhancing the overall sound with its unique timbre.
2. In a big band, the arrangement may feature specific parts written for each reed instrument, allowing for individual solos or harmonized lines.
3. Saxophones are particularly prominent in the reed section due to their versatility and ability to blend well with both brass and rhythm sections.
4. The use of reeds gives woodwind instruments their characteristic sound, which is crucial for the swing feel often associated with big band music.
5. Reed players often use various techniques like flutter-tonguing or growling to add expressive elements to their performances in big band contexts.

Review Questions

• How does the reed section contribute to the overall sound and structure of a big band arrangement?
  • The reed section contributes significantly to a big band's sound by adding rich harmonic layers and melodic lines that complement the brass section. Each reed instrument, such as saxophones and clarinets, has its own unique tone that helps create a full and varied texture. This section can also provide counter-melodies or harmonize with the brass, enhancing the ensemble's complexity. By blending these sounds together, the reed section plays an essential role in defining the character of big band music.
• Discuss how specific arrangements can highlight the strengths of the reed section within a big band performance.
  • Arrangements can be crafted to showcase the unique capabilities of the reed section by writing parts that highlight their expressive range and technical skills. For instance, arrangements may include passages that allow for individual saxophone solos or feature intricate harmonies among reed instruments. Additionally, dynamic contrasts can be used to create moments where the reed section shines brightly against a backdrop of brass and rhythm sections. This not only emphasizes their contribution but also enhances the overall musical experience for listeners.
• Evaluate the impact of the reed section's unique sound on the development of jazz during the big band era compared to earlier jazz styles.
  • The unique sound of the reed section had a profound impact on jazz during the big band era by introducing richer textures and new harmonic possibilities that were less prevalent in earlier jazz styles. The blend of saxophones with other woodwinds allowed for more intricate arrangements that supported complex melodies and provided a greater variety of dynamics. This development not only helped define the sound of big bands but also paved the way for innovations in jazz composition and improvisation. The prominence of reeds in this period signified a shift towards more sophisticated orchestration, which continued to influence jazz evolution in subsequent decades.

Related terms

Big Band: A large jazz ensemble that typically consists of sections of brass, woodwinds, and rhythm instruments, popular during the swing era.

Arrangements: The way in which music is organized for different instruments and voices within an ensemble, determining the roles each instrument plays.

Woodwinds: A family of instruments that produce sound through the vibration of air in a tube, including flutes, clarinets, and saxophones.