Get Out Of Town (J.Berry)

Cole Porter originally penned "Get Out Of Town" for the 1938 Broadway musical *Leave It to Me!*, where it was introduced by Mary Martin. It rapidly transcended its theatrical origins to become a cherished vehicle for jazz improvisers across the Great American Songbook tradition. Characterized by its driving, minor-key urgency and sophisticated chromatic movement, the composition captures the sophisticated melodic craftsmanship of the late 1930s while offering a flexible harmonic framework that later bebop and modal jazz musicians found endlessly inspiring. Notable interpretations by artists ranging from historical vocalists to modern instrumental big bands have cemented its status as a dramatic staple of the jazz repertoire, prized for its inherent tension and theatrical flair. John Berry’s dynamic big band adaptation translates Porter’s restless theatrical energy into a hard-driving, modern-swing vehicle tailored for contemporary ensembles. Set in a driving minor feel with an infectious medium-up tempo groove, the arrangement balances sleek, angular ensemble lines with lush, cinematic harmony. The mood is taut, suspenseful, and relentlessly energetic, evoking the smoky atmosphere of a classic noir film score blended with high-octane modern big band punch. Berry utilizes rich chord extensions and tight chromatic voice-leading in the brass to heighten the underlying tension of Porter's original melody, creating a stark contrast between whispered, muted backgrounds and explosive, full-ensemble shout choruses. The melodic narrative shifts fluidly across the ensemble, opening with a moody woodwind and low-brass introduction before the lead alto saxophone and trumpets take charge of the primary theme. Solos are strategically integrated to provide an improvisational focal point, backed by crisp, rhythmic comping figures that push the soloists forward without cluttering the texture. Technical demands center on clean articulation in the saxophone section during fast-moving unison passages, precise breath support for sustained brass voicings, and a rhythm section that can maintain a rock-solid, driving pulse beneath shifting metric accents. The arrangement rewards meticulous attention to dynamic contrast, particularly in how the band negotiates the sudden swells leading into the climactic shout chorus. Advanced high school, collegiate, and community jazz orchestras will find this chart an ideal centerpiece for festival programs or formal concerts. While accessible to bands with solid section-playing skills, it offers enough sophisticated harmonic color and rhythmic interplay to challenge advanced players. Directors will appreciate how naturally the chart lies under the fingers, allowing ensembles to focus less on mechanical execution and more on style, swagger, and collective ensemble cohesion. Executing John Berry's arrangement of "Get Out Of Town" successfully requires a disciplined approach to minor-key swing phrasing and dynamic control. The tempo should be kept brisk and purposeful—avoid rushing, as the underlying tension relies entirely on the rhythm section’s heavy, insistent ride cymbal pulse and crisp hi-hat on beats two and four. Horn players must pay close attention to short, clipped articulation markings on eighth-note runs to prevent the complex lines from blurring. Cup and straight mutes in the trumpet and trombone sections should be used where indicated to achieve that authentic, shadowy noir coloration during the verse statements. Rehearsals should initially isolate the rhythm section to lock in the foundational groove before layering in the saxophones and brass. Pay meticulous attention to the dynamic drop immediately following the main ensemble peaks; the sudden shift from fortissimo to mezzo-piano creates the dramatic tension that makes this specific arrangement so uniquely compelling on stage. Q: What instruments and parts are included in the 34-page score and parts set? A: The standard 17-instrument big band instrumentation includes Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 1 & 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drum Set. Q: What is the difficulty level of this John Berry arrangement? A: This arrangement is graded as medium-advanced, making it well-suited for skilled high school jazz bands, collegiate ensembles, and professional community big bands looking for a substantive challenge. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of the piece? A: Written originally by Cole Porter in 1938, this arrangement presents the composition in a driving, modern minor-key swing style that highlights the dramatic, theatrical roots of the tune. Q: What makes this specific arrangement by John Berry unique? A: Berry's chart stands out due to its cinematic tension, clever use of muted brass textures, and a high-octane shout chorus that brilliantly reimagines Porter's sophisticated Broadway harmony for a full jazz orchestra. Q: What is the performance duration and recommended tempo for this arrangement? A: While performance time varies slightly based on improvised solo choruses, it typically clocks in at around 3 to 4 minutes when played at the recommended medium-up swing tempo.