John Clayton credits stylistic influences from Quincy Jones and Billy Byers on this swinging minor blues. Utilizing a wide dynamic range, subtleties in the rhythm section, and variations in texture from just a few instruments to the full-out...

John's arrangement of this jazz classic was written specifically to feature Milt Jackson with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra; however, just about any instrument can play the head at the beginning of the chart. The full ensemble shout chorus at...

Monk was a master of composing unconventional and angular melodic lines. John Clayton provides a jagged yet stimulating chart that features dueling trumpets and an exciting full band shout chorus. From the recording “Explosive! - Milt Jackson...

From the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra CD Groove Shop, here is John's uptempo and energetic take on this Hoagy Carmichael favorite. Perfect as an opener, this explosive chart features tenor sax as well as dynamic parts for the full...

There's always time for the blues. This original by John Clayton (and recorded by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra on “Heart and Soul”) is set in a bluesy and relaxed tempo and provides lots of room for soloists to...

Trombones front and center on this one! Recorded by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra on Absolutely, here is a fabulous chart that features a relaxed “two” feel in the beginning, then gradually gathers steam all the way to the end. A...

Recorded on the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra CD “Explosive!,” this dynamic and swingin' setting of the standard Since I Fell for You was designed to showcase master vibraphonist Milt Jackson (heard on this excerpt). Also featured is...

Written for the Ellington orchestra by saxophonist Johnny Hodges, this catchy riff-based tune swings hard from beginning to end. After the hard-hitting opening, solos are exchanged by tenor, trombone, trumpet and piano. In typical Clayton-Hamilton...

This monster chart from John Clayton was written specifically for his clinic presentation at the IAJE convention where it was rehearsed and premiered in January 2005. After the rhythm section sets the tone, the trumpets state the first...

The funky stylings of Horace Silver are featured in this energetic arrangement from the acclaimed CD “Live at the MCG” recorded by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. A trumpet and tenor duet starts us off, followed by ensemble punches...

Feature the vibes (or piano) with this creatively arranged standard that was written specifically for vibes legend Milt Jackson (heard on this excerpt). The melody is bookended by plaintive statements for solo alto sax, and the ensemble provides a...