The Mooche

Duke Ellington

Transcribed by David Berger

Ellington recorded The Mooche hundreds of times. This transcription is of the original 1928 record which featured Lonnie Johnson on guitar and Baby Cox on vocal along with the entire Cotton Club orchestra. The Mooche was an instant hit and remained in the band’s book throughout Ellington’s entire career. This piece is nothing short of pure genius. Originally composed for the 1928 Cotton Club Review, it was reinterpreted nearly 50 years later by Alvin Ailey. Trumpet 1 up to Ab.

Grade 3

Medium Jungle Groove/Medium Swing

Solos: Trumpet, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Female Vocal, Guitar,

Female Scat Vocal (Alto)

Reed 1 clarinet

Reed 2 clarinet, alto sax

Reed 3 clarinet

3 Trumpets

1 Trombone

Guitar

Banjo

Piano

Bass

Drums