Anything Goes (F.Mantooth)

Cole Porter’s timeless 1934 theatre anthem "Anything Goes," originally introduced in the Broadway musical of the same name and later immortalized by icons like Ethel Merman and Frank Sinatra, stands as a cornerstone of the Great American Songbook. Its witty, socially satirical lyrics and infectious, propulsive melody have invited countless jazz interpretations over the decades, transitioning effortlessly from a snappy show tune into a sophisticated vehicle for modern big band improvisation. Frank Mantooth’s masterclass big band arrangement breathes fresh, contemporary life into Porter’s classic framework, injecting it with high-octane energy, sophisticated harmonic extensions, and signature post-bop voicings. Operating at a brisk, driving medium-up swing tempo, the chart opens with an attention-grabbing, rhythmically complex introduction that immediately establishes a bold, modern attitude. Mantooth utilizes rich, fourth-based chordal voicings in the brass and interlocking woodwind counterlines to subvert expectations, shifting the listener away from traditional 1930s idioms and firmly into the realm of advanced contemporary jazz composition. Throughout the chart, the melody is traded dynamically between razor-sharp saxophone solis and punchy, brass-led thematic statements. Mantooth’s scoring excels in transparency, allowing inner voices to move with independent linear motion while maintaining an overwhelming wall-of-sound impact during the climactic shout chorus. Solo opportunities are thoughtfully integrated, providing ample space for featured improvisers—typically in the tenor saxophone or piano chairs—to stretch out over harmonically stimulating changes that keep the rhythm section locked into an urgent, swinging groove. The technical demands center around crisp articulation, precise dynamic control, and a high comfort level with syncopated, bebop-inflected rhythms. Advanced high school ensembles, collegiate jazz orchestras, and professional big bands will find this chart to be an exhilarating programming choice. It offers a masterclass in ensemble balance and style, rewarding players with an intricate yet deeply satisfying musical journey that consistently brings audiences to their feet. Navigating Frank Mantooth’s sophisticated arrangement requires meticulous attention to articulation and dynamic shading from every section. The tempo should remain a steady, driving medium-up swing; avoid rushing the peaks of phrases, as the rhythmic tension relies heavily on a relaxed yet intensely focused pocket from the rhythm section. Brass players should approach high-register passages with a controlled, bright tone, utilizing disciplined fall-offs and doits that accent rather than overpower the ensemble texture. The saxophones must practice their intricate soli passages at slower tempos initially, ensuring absolute uniformity in tone and articulation before bringing it up to performance speed. Conductors should emphasize the sudden dynamic contrasts written into the score—subito pianos following aggressive ensemble punches are essential for achieving Mantooth’s signature dramatic flair. Finally, the rhythm section pianist should voice chords cleanly without cluttering the mid-range, leaving ample sonic space for the horn voicings to resonate clearly. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This chart is scored for a standard 17-piece big band instrumentation, featuring 5 saxophones (Alto 1, Alto 2, Tenor 1, Tenor 2, Baritone), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, guitar, piano, bass, and drums, and includes a comprehensive conductor score across its 51 pages. Q: What is the difficulty level of this Frank Mantooth arrangement? A: It is graded as advanced (Level 4–5), making it best suited for college jazz ensembles, advanced high school bands, and professional groups equipped to handle complex harmonies and fast tempo swings. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of this piece? A: It is a modern jazz big band adaptation of Cole Porter’s 1934 Broadway standard, reimagined through Frank Mantooth’s contemporary, post-bop compositional lens. Q: What makes this specific arrangement unique? A: Mantooth’s distinct voice shines through his use of lush, extended harmonies, fourth-based voicings, and tightly integrated counter-melodies that transform a classic show tune into a cutting-edge modern jazz chart. Q: What is the performance duration and tempo feel of the arrangement? A: The piece is designed as a high-energy, driving medium-up swing chart with an estimated performance duration of approximately 4 to 5 minutes.