Concerto de Aranjuez

Concierto de Aranjuez – Jazz Band Arrangement

Arranged by Graham Hickey

Experience Concierto de Aranjuez like never before in this thrilling jazz band arrangement! This version transforms Joaquín Rodrigo’s iconic work into a high-energy swing masterpiece, featuring lush harmonies, powerful brass moments, and electrifying solos.

The piece opens with a hauntingly beautiful flugelhorn chorale—a nod to the soulful interpretation featured in Brassed Off. Set at a slow 80 BPM, the four flugelhorns create a rich, expressive introduction, setting the mood with warm, lyrical phrasing.

But don’t get too comfortable—because the tempo kicks into a blazing 180 BPM swing! The energy ignites as a solo flugelhorn takes the lead, soaring over an intricate yet driving rhythm section. The melody passes through the band, with sectional interplay between saxes, trumpets, and trombones, each bringing fresh energy and dynamic contrast.

As the piece builds, the full trumpet section takes center stage, delivering bold, brassy statements before the entire band erupts in a full-ensemble fortissimo section—a moment of sheer power and excitement. The swing feel is relentless, the syncopation is sharp, and the brass punches hit with exhilarating precision.

Just when the intensity reaches its peak, the music eases back into the slow, expressive theme, returning to the flugelhorn for a heartfelt, delicate close—mirroring the poignant ending that made Brassed Off so unforgettable.

This arrangement is a showstopper, blending the beauty of the original Concierto de Aranjuez with the fire and excitement of big band swing. A must-have for any jazz band looking to captivate audiences with contrast, emotion, and pure energy!