Edition: Jazz Studio Orchestra Arrangement with Vocal

Description: Ballad - Medium

Publisher: Jazz Lines Publications

Written for the 1931 film Delicious, Somebody from Somewhere is a relatively obscure entry in the Brothers Gershwin’s extensive song catalog, but it is a somewhat brief, memorable melody that is given a typically outstanding interpretation by vocalist Ella Fitzgerald and arranger Nelson Riddle. This version was recorded for and released on 1959’s Ella Fitzgerald Sings the George and Ira Gershwin Songbook.

An ascending figure in the celli, harp, and celeste underpins some pads in the higher strings before Fitzgerald sings the verse semi-rubato beginning at measure 5. Although the tempo should ebb and flow with your singer’s interpretation, there is a consistent rhythmic underpinning in the aforementioned instruments for most of this section. An appropriately dreamy-sounding harp figure leads into a more steady, and slower, tempo for the melody at measure 23. The upper strings are largely unison with the vocalist during this portion, so your singer should keep their interpretation fairly straight in order to stay coordinated with the ensemble.

Speaking of the ensemble, a half instrumental chorus begins after the first melody statement concludes at measure 39. Riddle employs a basic call and response pattern that begins in the lower registers of the violas and celli before being handed off to the higher reaches of the violins. Fitzgerald returns at measure 47 for the second half of the chorus, with some slightly altered string harmonies. The final few measures of the melody slow down dramatically before a typically lush concluding figure in the strings brings the performance to a close.

This publication was based on Nelson Riddle’s pencil score - this is not a transcription.

 

Full Score
Vocal
3 Violins
Viola
Cello
Harp
Guitar
Celeste
Acoustic Bass
Percussion: Bells
Drum Set

Vocal Key: Ab