Anything Goes (N.Pierce)

Cole Porter’s timeless 1934 masterpiece "Anything Goes," originally introduced on Broadway and immortalized by decades of jazz icons, occupies a revered place in the Great American Songbook. Capturing the sophisticated yet effervescent spirit of the mid-20th century, this standard bridges the gap between classic Tin Pan Alley songwriting and dynamic big band jazz. Through the visionary lens of clarinetist and bandleader Woody Herman, the tune undergoes a high-octane transformation, reflecting the driving, hard-swinging ethos that made the Herman herds legendary across the globe. Herman’s library is famously celebrated for its electrifying blend of brass-heavy power, sophisticated reed writing, and relentless forward momentum, turning familiar Broadway fare into blistering modern jazz vehicles. Driven by a bright, relentless medium-up swing tempo in 4/4 time, this arrangement crackles with infectious theatrical energy and sophisticated harmonic color. The mood is celebratory, brash, and relentlessly optimistic, evoking the smoky glamour of mid-century jazz clubs combined with the sheer kinetic force of a full powerhouse ensemble. The woodwind section—consisting of alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones—establishes an agile, interlocking harmonic foundation that frames the blazing brass lines. Herman’s signature arranging style shines through razor-sharp shout choruses, dense extended chord voicings, and sudden dynamic shifts that keep both the performers and the audience on the edge of their seats from the opening downbeat to the final chord. Melodic duties are shared dynamically across the entire ensemble, moving fluidly from punchy brass statements to intricate sax solis that demand absolute precision and rhythmic unison. Featured solo space allows frontline players to stretch out over standard changes, injecting individual improvisational flair into the tightly structured framework. Technical challenges primarily center around maintaining a crisp, driving swing articulation at faster tempos, navigating rapid-fire modulations, and balancing the dense, brass-heavy textures so that inner voices remain audible. The ultimate reward lies in executing the explosive, high-energy shout chorus, which builds to a breathtaking climax characteristic of the finest Herman big band charts. Advanced high school, collegiate, community, and professional jazz orchestras will find this chart to be an exceptional addition to their repertoire. Because of its demanding tempo, intricate ensemble passages, and requirement for mature stylistic cohesion, it serves as an ideal centerpiece for festival performances or competitive settings. Advanced bands will relish the opportunity to sink their teeth into Woody Herman’s classic aesthetic, mastering the intricate interplay between swinging groove and ferocious big band power. Navigating Woody Herman’s treatment of "Anything Goes" requires rigorous attention to rhythmic placement and articulation clarity. Conductor and players must establish a locked-in, forward-leaning swing feel from the outset, avoiding any tendency to drag at faster tempos. The key technical hurdle lies within the rapid-fire sax solis and dense brass counterlines; musicians should practice these passages utilizing metronome subdivisions to ensure absolute synchronization. Pay close attention to dynamic contrast—subtle, whispered comping behind the soloists must instantly transform into a roaring, unmuted wall of sound during the major ensemble peaks. Special stylistic devices such as crisp staccato accents, controlled falls, and dynamic swells are essential for capturing the authentic Herman big band bite. Rehearsals should begin under tempo, isolating the rhythm section's ride cymbal and hi-hat interplay before layering in the complex horn voicings. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This chart is scored for an 8-instrument big band instrumentation, featuring Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, and a fully integrated rhythm section across 43 comprehensive pages of manuscript. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This arrangement is designated for advanced ensembles, making it best suited for college jazz bands, top-tier high school groups, and professional or community big bands with strong technical proficiency. Q: What is the style and historical context of this piece? A: Rooted in Cole Porter’s 1934 Broadway standard, this chart filters the classic melody through the electrifying, high-energy swing era and modern big band traditions championed by Woody Herman. Q: What makes this particular Woody Herman arrangement unique? A: It features Herman’s signature blend of sophisticated reed voicings, relentless swing momentum, and a blistering shout chorus that transforms a traditional Broadway tune into a powerhouse jazz vehicle. Q: What is the expected performance tempo and duration? A: The arrangement is set to a bright, driving medium-up swing tempo designed to showcase ensemble agility, typically resulting in a performance duration of approximately 3 to 4 minutes depending on solo extensions.