Duke Pearson

Although the big band version of this piece is probably more widely known, Duke Pearson's "New Girl" was first recorded in nonet form on his 1965 album "Honeybuns." The smaller instrumentation does nothing to limit the brilliant intricacy of Pearson's arrangement. In fact, the big band version is largely the same arrangement, with only some minor harmonic adjustments to accommodate for a larger ensemble.
The piece begins with an almost whimsical introduction, featuring a descending line in the woodwinds underpinned by some simple but warm harmonies from the brass. The lilting melody comes in at measure 9, initially stated in unison by Johnny Coles' trumpet, James Spaulding's alto, George Coleman's tenor, and Les Spann's flute. Pearson's arrangement begins to open up harmonically in measure 21, with Coles eventually soaring over a swelling ensemble before leading off into the solo section. The melody is never directly re-stated, as Pearson opts for a roaring, brilliantly orchestrated shout section to follow up the solo section. Surprisingly enough, the otherwise harmonically warm piece ends on a somewhat dissonant, even mysterious note. Despite its unexpectedness, the ending serves as a perfect way to wrap things up.
On the original recording, there are three soloists: Coles on trumpet, Coleman on tenor saxophone and Pearson on piano. The trumpet and tenor saxophone solos are accompanied by backgrounds. The piano solo does not have any backgrounds, but leads into the shout chorus. The transcription has been done for the band's original instrumentation of trumpet, flute, alto (which doubles briefly on flute), tenor, baritone (which doubles briefly on clarinet), trombone, piano, bass and drums. An optional guitar part has also been included. We sincerely hope you enjoy playing this tune as much as we enjoyed preparing it for you!

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