Diane (B.May)

"Diane," originally penned by Erno Rapee and Lew Pollack in 1927, emerged as the poignant theme song for the silent film "7th Heaven." While initially conceived as a waltz, its enduring melody and harmonic richness quickly established it as a jazz standard, embraced by artists who reimagined its character. Early popular success came with the Nat Shilkret Orchestra in 1928, but its transformation into a jazz staple was cemented by interpretations like the Miles Davis Quintet's 1956 recording, which notably shifted it from a waltz to a mid-tempo 4/4 swing. This evolution highlights the piece's adaptability and its capacity to transcend its origins, offering a lyrical foundation for diverse musical explorations. This Billy May arrangement of "Diane" embodies the arranger's characteristic blend of sophistication and swing. May, a master of big band orchestration, was renowned for his "swooping" saxophone glissandos and meticulous brass writing, often infused with a witty and sometimes tongue-in-cheek sensibility. In this chart, expect to encounter May's signature voicings, which create a rich, full-bodied sound. The arrangement likely features flowing saxophone soli sections, showcasing his distinctive glissando effects, balanced by crisp, powerful brass interjections. While "Diane" is a lyrical piece, May's treatment would elevate it with dynamic contrasts, potentially building to a vibrant shout chorus that is both exhilarating and harmonically inventive, all while maintaining a smooth, medium swing feel. The arrangement is designed for a full 17-piece big band, offering a rewarding experience for musicians and audiences alike. The melody is typically carried by the saxophone section, often in unison or close harmony, creating a warm and inviting texture. Solos are strategically placed to allow key instrumentalists to shine, providing moments for improvisation within May's expertly crafted harmonic framework. Technical challenges include precise articulation in the brass, particularly in any intricate soli passages, and achieving a cohesive, blended sound within the saxophone section's glissandos. The true reward lies in performing May's intricate counterpoint and experiencing the seamless flow of his orchestration, bringing to life a classic standard with his unique, swinging flair. This arrangement is ideally suited for college-level jazz ensembles, community big bands with experienced players, and professional groups seeking a polished, classic big band sound. Its detailed scoring provides ample opportunity for musical expression and ensemble refinement. Conductors should emphasize a relaxed, medium swing feel throughout, ensuring a consistent rhythmic pulse without rushing. Key technical challenges include achieving the characteristic "slurping saxes" glissando, which requires careful coordination and breath control within the saxophone section to execute smoothly and in unison. Brass players, particularly trumpets, should focus on precise attacks and releases, maintaining a bright, focused tone, especially in any accented figures or shout chorus sections. Encourage trombones to articulate cleanly, providing a solid harmonic foundation. Dynamics are crucial; guide the band through May's nuanced crescendos and diminuendos to build and release tension effectively. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to balancing the intricate voicings, ensuring that no single voice overpowers another, and perfecting the transitions between melodic statements and ensemble sections. **Q: What instruments are included in this arrangement?** A: This big band arrangement of "Diane (B.May)" is scored for 17 instruments, including Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 3 & 4, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1-4, Trombone 1-4, Piano, Bass, Drums, and Guitar. **Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement?** A: This arrangement is considered to be of an intermediate to advanced difficulty level, suitable for experienced high school, college, community, or professional big bands. It requires strong section playing, precise articulation, and a good understanding of swing style. **Q: What is the musical style and historical context of "Diane (B.May)"?** A: "Diane" is a jazz standard originally composed by Erno Rapee in 1927. This arrangement by Billy May transforms the piece into a classic big band jazz style, reflecting the sophisticated and swinging sound popular during the mid-20th century. **Q: What makes Billy May's arrangement of "Diane" unique?** A: Billy May's signature style, characterized by "swooping" saxophone glissandos, intricate brass voicings, and a sophisticated swing feel, makes this arrangement distinctive. It offers a vibrant and dynamic interpretation of the classic standard. **Q: What is the typical performance duration or tempo for this piece?** A: Given its medium swing feel, a typical performance of this arrangement would likely fall in the range of 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the inclusion and length of improvised solos. The tempo should be a comfortable, unhurried medium swing.