Cat 'n' Mouse (Jazz Band Gr. 4)

Cat 'n' Mouse tips its hat to classic 1970s television themes, blending solo-sax swagger with punchy big-band hits and iconic drum fills. Its harmonic framework began as a playful reworking of the Christmas carol Deck the Halls, reshaped and reenergized into a vibrant feature for developing and advanced alto players— one that celebrates the chase!

Genre: Jazz Ensemble | # of Players: Standard
Series: Jazz Repertoire Series
Level: 4 | Duration: 3:30

Instrumentation
Transposed Score (A4 spiral bound)

Alto Saxophone 1
Alto Saxophone 2
Tenor Saxophone 1
Tenor Saxophone 2
Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet 1
Trumpet 2
Trumpet 3
Trumpet 4

Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Bass Trombone

Guitar
Piano
Bass Guitar
Drum Kit
Congas

Program Notes

Cat ‘n’ Mouse is a playful, high-energy jazz chart that puts the alto saxophone section front and center. Driven by a sense of chase and mischief, the two alto parts trade lines, echo motifs, and weave around one another in a spirited game of musical pursuit. The “cat and mouse” character emerges through lively melodic exchanges, virtuosic bursts, and moments of close duet interplay. Both players share the melodic lead throughout, supported by solo opportunities and dynamic ensemble writing that heightens the drama of the chase.

The work tips its hat to classic 1970s television themes, blending solo-sax swagger with punchy big-band hits and iconic drum fills. Its harmonic framework began as a playful reworking of the Christmas carol 'Deck the Halls,' reshaped and reenergized into a vibrant feature for developing and advanced alto players— one that celebrates the chase!