Doin' Everything With You (C.Mangione)

"Doin' Everything With You," composed by the renowned flugelhornist Chuck Mangione, first appeared on his 1976 album *Main Squeeze*. This piece emerged during an era when Mangione was bridging the gap between traditional jazz and more accessible, melodic pop-jazz, a style that would soon make him a household name with hits like "Feels So Good." Mangione's compositions are celebrated for their infectious hooks, lyrical melodies, and sophisticated harmonic structures, moving instrumental jazz into broader popular appeal without sacrificing musical depth. His work represents a significant contribution to the jazz landscape of the 1970s, showcasing the flugelhorn's warm, mellow tone as a primary solo voice and laying groundwork for what would become smooth jazz. Musically, "Doin' Everything With You" embodies a relaxed, medium-tempo groove, often characterized by a gentle, flowing feel that invites both introspection and a subtle, irresistible sway. While the original recording might lean into a contemporary jazz or crossover jazz aesthetic, this big band arrangement by C. Mangione elevates its inherent orchestral qualities. The mood is generally optimistic and uplifting, evoking a sense of warmth and ease, typical of Mangione's signature sound. The piece often features a lyrical melody, carried primarily by the flugelhorn in the original, but here thoughtfully distributed among the saxophone and trumpet sections, creating rich, interwoven textures. C. Mangione's arrangement for big band skillfully expands upon the original's melodic and harmonic foundations. Expect sophisticated voicings in the brass and saxophone sections that highlight the piece's inherent beauty, often employing close harmony and lush countermelodies. The arrangement features compelling soli sections that allow the various instrument groups to shine, building dynamic interest. There are ample opportunities for featured solos, typically for trumpet or alto saxophone, allowing improvisers to explore the piece's consonant harmonic landscape. Technical challenges primarily revolve around achieving a cohesive ensemble sound, maintaining precise articulation in the lyrical passages, and executing dynamic contrasts with sensitivity. The reward lies in performing a piece that is both musically gratifying and deeply engaging for audiences, showcasing the band's ability to deliver a polished, emotive performance. This arrangement is well-suited for college, community, and professional big bands. Its accessible melodic nature makes it an excellent choice for developing ensembles to work on blend, balance, and expressive phrasing, while its harmonic richness and solo opportunities provide plenty of challenge for more advanced groups. The 19-instrument scoring offers a full, vibrant sound, making it a substantial addition to any big band's repertoire and a fantastic vehicle for exploring the enduring legacy of Chuck Mangione's accessible yet sophisticated jazz. Conductors should establish a relaxed, medium-swing feel from the outset, emphasizing a gentle lilt rather than a driving intensity. Focus on achieving a warm, blended sound, particularly in the saxophone and brass soli sections, ensuring precise attacks and releases to maintain the lyrical flow. Pay close attention to dynamic markings, as subtle shifts are crucial for conveying the piece's emotional depth. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to balancing the interwoven melodic lines and ensuring that the rhythm section provides a steady, supportive foundation without overpowering the ensemble. Soloists should be encouraged to embrace a melodic and expressive approach, drawing inspiration from Mangione's own lyrical flugelhorn style. While no special techniques like plungers or doits are explicitly required, musicians should be prepared for nuanced phrasing and sensitive articulation throughout. Q: What instruments are included in this big band arrangement? A: This arrangement is scored for 19 instruments, including Flute, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2, Trumpet 3, Trumpet 4, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Trombone 3, Bass Trombone, Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums, and Percussion. Q: What is the difficulty level of "Doin' Everything With You (C.Mangione)" for big band? A: This arrangement is suitable for college, community, and professional big bands. It offers accessible melodies for developing ensembles to refine blend and phrasing, while its harmonic sophistication and solo sections provide engaging challenges for more advanced groups. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of this piece? A: "Doin' Everything With You" is a jazz standard composed by Chuck Mangione, originating from his 1976 album *Main Squeeze*. It embodies the melodic, accessible jazz-pop style that Mangione popularized in the 1970s, bridging traditional jazz with broader appeal. Q: What makes C. Mangione's big band arrangement of "Doin' Everything With You" unique? A: This arrangement expands on the original's lyrical qualities with sophisticated voicings, compelling soli sections, and rich countermelodies across the brass and saxophone sections. It provides ample opportunities for featured solos and highlights the piece's inherent orchestral potential. Q: What is the typical tempo and overall feel of this arrangement? A: The arrangement maintains a relaxed, medium-swing tempo. The overall feel is warm, optimistic, and lyrical, encouraging a flowing and expressive performance.