Don't Be That Way (J.Bambridge)

Edgar Sampson’s timeless swing anthem "Don’t Be That Way," originally penned in 1934 and immortalized as the iconic opening theme of Benny Goodman’s legendary 1938 Carnegie Hall Concert, stands as a masterwork of the swing era. Combining infectious rhythmic drive with sophisticated melodic contours, Sampson’s composition captures the effortless cool and high-energy exuberance of the 1930s big band landscape. While the tune remains a staple of the Great American Songbook, this specific rendition is filtered through the virtuosic, brass-forward sensibility of master trumpeter and bandleader Doc Severinsen, offering a thrilling rebirth of a classic idiom designed to push modern big bands to their expressive limits. Driven by an infectious, buoyant medium-up swing groove in 4/4 time, this arrangement exudes an irrepressible sense of joy, swagger, and theatrical flair. The harmonic framework crackles with bright, extended chord voicings that honor the original Benny Goodman arrangement while injecting the sparkling, high-register brilliance and dynamic punch synonymous with Severinsen’s Tonight Show Band legacy. The emotional trajectory builds steadily from a sultry, understated groove into a cascade of cascading brass flourishes and searing woodwind lines, capturing both the sophisticated elegance of the retro swing era and the explosive electricity of contemporary big band jazz. Severinsen’s chart is distinguished by its meticulous architectural design, featuring tightly interwoven sax solis, crisp call-and-response dynamics between the brass and reeds, and a towering, high-octane shout chorus that demands absolute precision. The arrangement brilliantly exploits the full dynamic range of the 17-piece ensemble, utilizing punchy staccato figures, gliding smears, and rich harmonic tension to keep both performers and audiences utterly engaged. The melody is deftly tossed across sections, allowing the alto and tenor saxophones to showcase their lithe agility while providing ample space for featured soloists to stretch out over authentic, swinging changes. Tailored for advanced college ensembles, professional repertory orchestras, and elite high school big bands possessing strong section leaders, this chart requires mature swing phrasing, impeccable intonation, and robust endurance—particularly in the trumpet section. Performers will find immense artistic satisfaction in navigating the intricate counterpoint and driving momentum, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any formal concert program or festival performance. Success with this arrangement hinges on achieving an authentic, relaxed medium-up swing feel where eighth notes are properly swung without ever becoming stiff or overly dotted. The rhythm section must anchor the groove with a relentless, driving ride cymbal pattern and a locked-in bass line that breathes with the horns. Brass players should pay careful attention to articulation markings, ensuring that short notes are crisp and accented notes carry appropriate weight without distorting tone quality. Stylistic devices such as falls, doits, and cup or bucket mutes must be executed with uniformity across sections to match the polished, television-ready aesthetic of Severinsen’s charts. During rehearsals, conductors should isolate the dense sax soli to ensure absolute blend and intonation before integrating the rhythm section, and carefully pace the brass section's endurance leading into the climactic shout chorus. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this big band arrangement? A: This 17-instrument arrangement includes a full standard big band instrumentation featuring Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpets 1 through 4, Trombones 1 through 4, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums, accompanied by a comprehensive conductor score across its 86 pages. Q: What is the difficulty level of this specific chart? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced, making it best suited for collegiate ensembles, professional big bands, and elite high school bands with strong lead players and experienced rhythm section members. Q: What is the historical background of "Don't Be That Way"? A: Originally composed by Edgar Sampson in 1934, the tune gained immortal status when Benny Goodman used it to open his historic 1938 Carnegie Hall concert, defining the pinnacle of the swing era. Q: What makes Doc Severinsen's arrangement unique compared to other versions? A: Severinsen’s treatment elevates the classic swing standard by incorporating high-octane brass flourishes, intricate dynamic contrasts, and a brilliant, high-register energy reflective of his legendary big band style. Q: What is the recommended tempo and performance duration for this piece? A: The chart is designed to be performed at a brisk, driving medium-swing tempo that typically yields a total performance duration of approximately 3 to 4 minutes depending on solo extensions.