Accentuate The Positive (M.Collins)

Written by legendary songwriting duo Johnny Mercer and Harold Arlen in 1944, "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive" captured the wartime public's need for optimism, quickly becoming a defining standard of the American Songbook and a major hit for Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters. Rooted in the swing era's intersection of pop and jazz, the tune blends an infectious, blues-inflected melody with a syncopated rhythm that has invited countless jazz interpretations over the decades, ranging from vocal features to driving instrumental romps. Bouncing forward with an irresistible, bright medium-swing groove in 4/4 time, Myles Collins’s chart radiates an uplifting, high-energy mood driven by clever harmonic twists and sparkling brass interplay. The arrangement opens with a witty, conversational intro before launching into a vibrant thematic statement that immediately establishes a buoyant, toe-tapping atmosphere. Collins expertly balances nostalgic swing-era charm with contemporary big band sophistication, utilizing rich extended harmonies, snappy counter-melodies, and dynamic rhythmic hits that keep both the performers and the audience thoroughly engaged from the downbeat to the final chord. Collins approaches the classic material with a keen ear for section color and textural contrast, alternating between lush, harmonized sax solis and punchy, brass-led shout choruses that build relentless momentum. The arrangement features crisp call-and-response figures between the trumpets and trombones, while the rhythm section is given ample room to drive the ensemble with an authentic, propulsive walking bassline and crisp hi-hat accents. Standout moments include a cleverly orchestrated modulation and a high-octane shout chorus that showcases the full dynamic range of the modern big band without ever muddying the clarity of Arlen’s iconic melody. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional community big bands will find this 53-page score to be an exceptionally rewarding addition to their repertoire. While the overall technical demands are approachable for proficient ensembles, precision in the articulation of short swing eighth notes and tight section blend are essential to capturing the chart's sparkling, optimistic character. It serves as an ideal festival opener, a crowd-pleasing concert closer, or a brilliant showcase for bands looking to refine their stylistic versatility and swing feel. Achieving an authentic performance of this Myles Collins arrangement hinges on maintaining a relaxed yet driving medium-swing feel, avoiding any tendency to rush the tempo. The rhythm section is the anchor; the drummer should keep a steady, feather-light ride cymbal pattern with crisp chicks on beats two and four, while the bassist locks in a solid, unhurried quarter-note pulse. Brass players must pay close attention to marked articulations, utilizing crisp staccatos and controlled, subtle falls where indicated to emulate classic mid-century big band style without overplaying. Rehearsals should initially focus on sectional balance, ensuring the inner-voice harmony in the saxophones and trombones doesn't obscure the lead trumpet line during exposed melody statements. Pay meticulous attention to dynamic contrasts between the punchy ensemble hits and the lighter, swinging background figures, allowing the humor and optimism of the arrangement to shine through organically. Q: What instrumentation and parts are included in this 53-page publication? A: The arrangement is scored for a standard big band instrumentation, featuring 5 saxophones (with double parts typically for alto and tenor), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, and a full rhythm section including piano, guitar, bass, and drums, along with a full conductor's score. Q: What is the designated difficulty level for this chart? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced intermediate to advanced, making it best suited for accomplished high school, collegiate, and professional community jazz orchestras with strong section read capabilities. Q: How does this chart fit into the broader historical context of jazz standards? A: It reimagines Johnny Mercer and Harold Arlen’s 1944 morale-boosting classic, transforming a vocal novelty hit into a sophisticated instrumental showcase that honors the tradition of mid-century swing while incorporating modern big band arranging sensibilities. Q: What distinguishes Myles Collins's arrangement from standard stock charts of this tune? A: Collins elevates the material through inventive harmonic reharmonizations, sophisticated counterpoint, dynamic section solis, and a brilliantly structured shout chorus that provides a fresh, contemporary energy while respecting the original melody. Q: What is the recommended performance duration and tempo feel? A: While performance time varies slightly based on chosen solo rotations, the chart is designed to run approximately 3 to 4 minutes at a comfortable, swinging medium tempo of around 120 to 126 beats per minute.