Edition: Jazz Studio Orchestra Arrangement with Vocal

Description: Ballad - Medium

Publisher: Jazz Lines Publications

Recorded for her 1961 album 'Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Harold Arlen Songbook,' this Billy May arrangement for studio orchestra is a simple yet effective frame for Fitzgerald's lovely performance.

The arrangement begins with a descending string line to set up the vocalist's entrance at measure 4. Throughout the melody, the string accompaniment should maintain a subdued volume level, as the fullness of May's voicings provide a natural depth to the ensemble's sound.

At the end of the form, the ensemble repeats back to measure 5. On the repeat, the first part of the melody is handled by an alto saxophone solo, exquisitely handled on the original recording by Benny Carter. The vocal re-enters on the repeat at measure 20, and continues to carry the melody throughout the rest of the arrangement. The proceedings come to a close with a re-statement of the introduction at measure 41, concluding with a rubato vocal solo to set up the final lovely chord.

This arrangement is for studio orchestra with vocal and alto saxophone soloists. This is not a transcription; it has been prepared from Billy May's original parts.

Full Score
Vocal
Solo Alto Saxophone
4 Violins
2 Violas
2 Celli
Harp
Guitar
Piano
Bass
Drums