Shout chorus

Definition

A shout chorus is a lively and energetic section in a big band arrangement where the full ensemble plays together, typically featuring syncopated rhythms and powerful, accentuated melodies. This part serves as a climactic moment in a piece, often allowing soloists to showcase their improvisational skills against the backdrop of the full band. The shout chorus is characterized by its call-and-response structure, adding a vibrant and dynamic feel to the performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The shout chorus often occurs after a series of solos in a big band performance, acting as a powerful conclusion or peak to the piece.
2. In a shout chorus, musicians typically play in unison or harmony, with brass instruments leading the melody while rhythm sections provide a strong backbeat.
3. It’s common for shout choruses to include written parts that allow for some degree of improvisation by soloists, encouraging individual expression within the ensemble.
4. The energy of a shout chorus can drive audiences to dance or respond enthusiastically, making it a crucial element in live performances.
5. Shout choruses have roots in early jazz and swing music but evolved significantly through big band leaders like Duke Ellington and Count Basie.

Review Questions

• How does the shout chorus enhance the overall experience of a big band performance?
  • The shout chorus enhances the big band performance by creating a high-energy climax that captures the audience's attention. Its upbeat nature often follows individual solos, bringing the entire ensemble together in an explosive and synchronized moment. This collective sound not only showcases the talents of each musician but also fosters a lively atmosphere that engages listeners, making it a memorable part of the performance.
• Discuss the structural elements that characterize a shout chorus and how they differ from other sections in big band arrangements.
  • A shout chorus is characterized by its use of unison melodies, strong accents, and syncopated rhythms that distinguish it from more subdued sections of big band arrangements. While other parts may focus on intricate harmonies or solo improvisation, the shout chorus emphasizes collective power and energy. The call-and-response format often utilized in this section allows for interaction between different instrument groups, creating an exciting dynamic not typically found in quieter passages.
• Evaluate the impact of historical figures like Duke Ellington and Count Basie on the development of the shout chorus in jazz music.
  • Duke Ellington and Count Basie significantly shaped the evolution of the shout chorus through their innovative arrangements and distinctive styles. Ellington introduced complex harmonies and orchestrations that elevated the musical sophistication of shout choruses, while Basie's emphasis on rhythm and swing created an infectious energy that made his choruses iconic. Their contributions not only popularized this element within big band music but also set standards for future jazz ensembles, influencing countless musicians who sought to capture that same vibrant spirit in their performances.

Related terms

big band: A large jazz ensemble typically consisting of 10 or more musicians, featuring sections of brass, woodwinds, and rhythm instruments, known for its swing and dance music.

arrangement: The process of adapting a piece of music for performance by a specific group of musicians, outlining instrumentation, harmonies, and structure.

improvisation: The spontaneous creation of music during performance, often seen in jazz where musicians create melodies and solos on the spot.