Origins Suite follows the evolution of the jazz style from a West-African polyrhythm, to a 1930's style swing and finally a 1980's funk/fusion groove. Featuring solos for guitar, alto sax, trombone, tenor sax, trumpet and drum set, this composition was originally written for some of Craig's former students who formed an 8-piece band, "Back Beat."

Tranquility is an Alto Saxophone solo feature. It has two contrasting sections, a 6/8 gospel style ballad combined with a bridge that changes into a 4/4 afro-cuban soul groove. With solo space for Alto Sax and piano, the big band arrangement features the use of flugelhorns throughout except for a full ensemble soli section over the bridge.

An infectious shuffle groove with melody lines in saxes and trumpets, with a counter melody in trombones makes this a fun chart for every part. There are 16 bar blues changes for all, plus a fun soli section before the tune modulates from Eb to F.

Written for my Alma Mater, Downers Grove South HS, this "Purdie" Shuffle groove features a duet between Soprano and Tenor Sax, which develops into a full ensemble section, solos, and then a breakdown and horn soli with ample drum set solo space. Check out youTube videos of Bernard Purdie as he demonstrates his unique drum beat.