Dontbethatway Guitar (Thompson)

Swing into action with this vibrant small ensemble arrangement of "Don't Be That Way," expertly crafted by Thompson for a 9-piece jazz group. This chart captures the infectious energy of classic big band swing, distilled into a format perfect for smaller performing units. Originally popularized by Benny Goodman and composed by Edgar Sampson, Benny Goodman, and Mitchell Parish, "Don't Be That Way" is a foundational piece in the swing repertoire, known for its driving rhythm and memorable melodies. Thompson's arrangement for Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Piano, Bass, Drums, and a prominent Guitar part, provides an accessible entry point for ensembles seeking to perform this timeless standard. The difficulty is rated as easy, making it suitable for high school jazz bands, college combos, community ensembles, or professional groups looking for a polished, ready-to-play chart. This arrangement maintains a lively tempo feel characteristic of big band swing, encouraging a buoyant and rhythmic performance. Harmonic voicings are designed to be clear and supportive, reflecting the classic swing era sound without overly complex modernizations.