Bill Dobbins Jazz Arranging and Composing A Linear Approach

The intent of this book is to illustrate a clear and economical conception of arranging and composing in a jazz idiom. I think of this conception as linear. The aim of this conception is to give each instrument in the ensemble a line which is as melodic as possible. Sometimes this aim can be achieved through traditional technics of arranging or melody harmonization. Often, however, two or more technics may be combined to obtain a richer, more colorful sound. Sometimes it may be possible to give each horn a tuneful and melodically independent line while, at the same time, creating a strong sense of harmonic movement.

I think it is important to give each instrument a good line for two reasons. First, when each musician in the ensemble has a part which makes musical sense and is fun to play, everyone will be able to play the music with much more enthusiasm and conviction. Second, when the individual lines move in a clear and convincing manner, the fabric of the music is stronger and richer. I discovered these fundamental ideas through studying the music of the greatest jazz composer of all: Duke Ellington.