Jazz Composition Question

[Shakin-Slim]

So I've been wondering about different horns in jazz heads. Let's take Mingus' Goodbye Pork Pie Hat for example. Are the different horns playing different melodies that compliment each other and create harmony or are they usually the same, note for note. I've got a head coming along over some chords, using guitar pro, so far just bass and trumpet. Sounding good. When I try to add a sax part, it sounds bad whether I do the same notes or harmony. Hmmm...

[Shakin-Slim]

...

[ding_man]

Are your horns transposed?

[Shakin-Slim]

I'm using guitar pro and they give you a concert C when you put a C on the stave for that instrument, for every one.

[Kobaia]

well. there is counterpoint. where 2 or more voices play melodies that compliment each other.
then you have unison lines also called soli. where 2 or more voices play the same note.

[bassbrad]

Horn and string parts can get very complex but a good place to start is thinking of texture and working out the parts thru chord voiceings. Since you likely have the gtr and trpt playing the melody try having the sax play in thirds or fifths or playing just roots. You also have to be aware of the other notes being played by the other instruments and be aware of what register or octave each instrument is in. Also what sounds good on a computer will not always sound good played by a group of horns and visa versa. Harmonized horn parts will drive you mad, luckily my wife is an experienced player in sections and she helps me arrange horn parts.

[dtiii]

I just posted this link in another thread. It's a worthwhile investment for sure.

http://www.amazon.com/Contemporary-A.../dp/0882844857

Also, try transcribing an arrangement that you like. You'll learn much by seeing how others have done it.