Baubles Bangles And Beads (B.May)

"Baubles, Bangles And Beads" emerged from the 1953 Broadway musical *Kismet*, a show celebrated for adapting classical melodies into popular songs. The original composition by Robert Wright and George Forrest ingeniously reimagined the second theme of the Scherzo movement from Alexander Borodin's String Quartet No. 2 in D major, composed in 1881. This transformation blended operatic grandeur with Broadway flair, quickly establishing the tune as a jazz and pop standard. While the *Kismet* setting often maintained Borodin's original 3/4 waltz rhythm, jazz interpretations, such as this arrangement, typically convert it to a moderate four-beat accompaniment, highlighting its beguiling melody and advanced harmonic structure. Peggy Lee's 1953 recording was a best-seller, and Frank Sinatra's rendition on his 1959 album *Come Dance with Me!* further cemented its place in the jazz canon. This arrangement by the legendary Billy May captures the sophisticated swing and vibrant energy characteristic of the mid-20th century big band era. Set in a bright, medium swing tempo, the piece radiates a joyful and slightly exotic mood, reflecting its origins in *Kismet*'s Arabian Nights-inspired setting. The overall feel is one of confident, polished exuberance, driven by May's signature rhythmic propulsion. The vocal lead is paramount, carrying the primary melodic statements with clarity and expressive phrasing, supported by lush, harmonically rich ensemble writing. The arrangement is primarily in a bright major key, with May's characteristic modulations adding harmonic interest and dynamic shifts throughout. Billy May's distinctive arranging style is immediately recognizable in this chart. Known for his "slurping saxes" – a glissando effect achieved by the saxophone section – and his masterful brass writing, May crafts a sound that is both powerful and nuanced. Expect intricate soli sections for both saxophones and brass, showcasing May's ingenious voicings that often feature close harmony and unexpected resolutions. The arrangement likely incorporates a dynamic interplay between the vocal line and the ensemble, with instrumental interludes and perhaps a full-band shout chorus building to an exciting climax. May's charts are celebrated for their clever use of counterpoint and rhythmic figures, making this a rewarding piece for musicians who appreciate sophisticated big band writing. Performing this arrangement offers a rewarding experience for a skilled big band. The vocalist is featured prominently, requiring strong vocal command and interpretive flair. Instrumentalists will find technical challenges in the precise articulation required for May's brass figures and the tight ensemble playing demanded by his soli sections. There are likely featured solo opportunities, often for a trumpet or saxophone, providing a chance for improvisation within May's harmonic framework. The piece’s dynamic contrasts and rhythmic complexity contribute to its rewarding nature, making it a standout selection for college, community, and professional jazz ensembles looking to capture the authentic sound of a classic big band vocal chart. This Billy May arrangement of "Baubles, Bangles And Beads" thrives on a precise, driving medium swing feel. Conductors should emphasize a buoyant, unhurried pulse, avoiding any tendency to rush, particularly during the intricate soli passages. The brass sections require meticulous attention to articulation and dynamics; May's trademark punchy figures demand crisp attacks and controlled releases. Pay close attention to the "slurping saxes" effect, which should be executed as a unified, expressive glissando rather than individual slides, adding a distinctive May-esque flair. Rehearsal should focus on balancing the vocal lead against the powerful ensemble, ensuring the singer is always prominent without sacrificing the band's energy. Soloists should be encouraged to embrace the harmonic sophistication of the tune while maintaining the overall stylistic integrity of the arrangement. Dynamic shaping throughout the piece is crucial to build excitement, especially leading into and out of any shout choruses. Q: What instruments are included in this arrangement? A: This big band vocal arrangement typically includes parts for a vocalist, 5 saxophones (2 altos, 2 tenors, 1 baritone), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, and a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums). Some arrangements may include optional doublings for woodwinds. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This arrangement is suitable for advanced high school, college, community, and professional big bands. It presents technical challenges in brass articulation, saxophone soli precision, and maintaining a consistent, driving swing feel. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of "Baubles, Bangles And Beads"? A: "Baubles, Bangles And Beads" is a jazz standard originating from the 1953 Broadway musical *Kismet*. Its melody is adapted from Alexander Borodin's String Quartet No. 2, and this Billy May arrangement transforms it into a classic mid-20th century big band swing style. Q: What makes Billy May's arrangement of this piece unique? A: Billy May's signature touches include his "slurping saxes" glissando effect, intricate and powerful brass voicings, and a sophisticated harmonic approach that maintains a bright, swinging energy throughout the piece. Q: What is the typical performance duration or tempo for this arrangement? A: This arrangement is designed for a bright, medium swing tempo. Depending on any improvised solos and the conductor's interpretation, a typical performance duration would likely be between 3 and 5 minutes.