And The Angels Sing (Arr. Noni Bernardi (J.Farley) B.Goodman) voc

"And The Angels Sing," a timeless swing era classic, rose to prominence in 1939 as a signature tune for Benny Goodman and his Orchestra. Originally composed by Ziggy Elman, with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, the piece became an instant sensation, forever etched in the annals of big band history by Elman's distinctive trumpet solo and Martha Tilton's captivating vocal performance. This arrangement by Noni Bernardi (J. Farley) masterfully re-imagines the exuberant energy of that golden age, offering a faithful yet fresh interpretation of a true jazz standard. It embodies the quintessential medium-up swing feel of the late 1930s, characterized by its infectious rhythmic drive, bright brass fanfares, and a joyous, uplifting mood that perfectly captures the optimism and sophistication of the era. Bernardi's (J. Farley's) treatment of "And The Angels Sing" is a vibrant homage to the original while showcasing a keen understanding of modern big band voicing. The arrangement is set in the bright key of F Major, maintaining the original's effervescent character. Expect rich, full-bodied brass voicings, particularly in the trumpet section, which frequently employs a powerful, open sound reminiscent of the Goodman band's punchy delivery. The saxophone section features lush, harmonized lines that provide a warm counterpoint to the brass. A standout feature is the meticulously transcribed and orchestrated trumpet solo, directly referencing Ziggy Elman's iconic original, allowing a soloist to channel that legendary performance. The arrangement builds through dynamic contrasts, leading to a powerful shout chorus that truly encapsulates the big band sound, driving towards a climactic finish that will leave audiences exhilarated. The vocal part, designed for a female vocalist, carries the primary melodic weight through the initial choruses, requiring a singer with a clear tone and a strong sense of swing. Following the vocal, the arrangement provides ample opportunity for the ensemble to shine. Beyond the featured trumpet solo, there are opportunities for well-crafted soli sections, particularly in the saxophones, that demand precision and blend. Technical challenges include maintaining a consistent, driving swing feel at a medium-up tempo, executing clean brass attacks, and achieving balanced voicings across all sections. The arrangement's reward lies in its ability to transport both performers and listeners back to the heyday of swing, delivering an authentic and exhilarating big band experience. This arrangement is ideally suited for college and advanced high school jazz ensembles, as well as community big bands and professional groups seeking an authentic and engaging swing chart. Its 51 pages indicate a comprehensive and detailed score, providing a substantial and rewarding performance piece. Bands with a strong brass section and a capable vocalist will find this chart particularly gratifying, offering a perfect blend of historical reverence and contemporary playability. It’s a superb choice for concerts, dances, or any occasion where a classic, high-energy swing number is desired. This arrangement of "And The Angels Sing" thrives on a consistent, driving medium-up swing feel, ideally around 180-200 BPM. Emphasize a light, buoyant quarter note pulse with a strong eighth-note swing. Brass attacks should be precise and unified, particularly in the fanfares and shout choruses, aiming for a bright, open sound. The iconic trumpet solo, closely transcribed from Ziggy Elman's original, requires a soloist with strong articulation and a confident, expressive tone; encourage listening to the original recording for stylistic nuances. Ensure the vocalist maintains a clear, forward projection over the ensemble, articulating the lyrics with a natural swing inflection. Rehearsal time should focus on balancing the rich voicings, especially between the brass and saxophones, and achieving seamless transitions between sections. Pay close attention to dynamic contrasts, building energy towards the final shout chorus for maximum impact. No special techniques like plungers or doits are explicitly notated, but stylistic falls and scoops can be added tastefully by the brass for authenticity. Q: What instrumentation is included in this arrangement? A: This big band vocal arrangement typically includes parts for 5 saxophones (2 altos, 2 tenors, 1 baritone), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, piano, bass, drums, and a dedicated vocal lead sheet. Q: What is the difficulty level of "And The Angels Sing (Arr. Noni Bernardi (J.Farley) B.Goodman) voc"? A: This arrangement is rated as Medium-Advanced. It requires experienced players with strong technical proficiency, good ensemble blend, and a solid understanding of swing articulation and style. Q: What musical style and historical context does this arrangement represent? A: This arrangement embodies the classic Swing era sound of the late 1930s, specifically referencing Benny Goodman's iconic big band. It captures the vibrant energy and sophisticated voicings of that golden age of jazz. Q: What makes Noni Bernardi (J.Farley)'s arrangement of this piece unique? A: Bernardi's (J.Farley's) arrangement is distinctive for its faithful yet fresh interpretation, featuring rich, authentic brass voicings, meticulously transcribed iconic solos, and a dynamic build that captures the original's exhilarating spirit while offering modern playability. Q: What is the typical performance duration and tempo for this piece? A: The typical performance duration for this arrangement is approximately 3-4 minutes, played at a medium-up swing tempo, generally ranging from 180 to 200 beats per minute.