Here's That Rainy Day (B.Curnow)

"Here's That Rainy Day," composed by Jimmy Van Heusen with lyrics by Johnny Burke, first graced the stage in 1953 as part of the short-lived Broadway musical *Carnival in Flanders*. Despite the show's brief run, this poignant ballad quickly transcended its origins to become one of the most enduring and widely recorded jazz standards of the mid-20th century. Its melancholic charm and sophisticated harmonic structure, often moving from a major tonic to distant tonal regions, resonated deeply with musicians and audiences alike, mirroring the lyric's theme of unexpected heartbreak and wistful reflection. The song's status as a jazz standard was cemented by iconic recordings from artists such as Frank Sinatra, whose 1959 rendition is considered definitive, and Bill Evans, known for his introspective piano interpretation. Bob Curnow's masterful big band arrangement of "Here's That Rainy Day" transforms this intimate ballad into a rich, expansive orchestral statement. Curnow, renowned for his work with the Stan Kenton Orchestra and his innovative arrangements of contemporary fusion and rock for large ensembles, brings his signature blend of harmonic depth and textural clarity to this classic. His approach often features intricate voicings, compelling counterpoint, and a keen ear for ensemble balance, drawing on influences from earlier Kenton arrangers like Pete Rugolo and Bill Holman. This arrangement is crafted as a slow, expressive ballad, typically in 4/4 time and often performed in the key of G major in instrumental jazz settings. The arrangement showcases Curnow's ability to maintain the original's emotional core while expanding its sonic palette. The melody is sensitively carried by various sections, often featuring the lead alto saxophone or flugelhorn, allowing for both individual expression and lush ensemble textures. Soli sections are meticulously crafted, providing challenging yet rewarding interplay between the horn sections, while the rhythm section lays down a supple, unhurried foundation. Performance challenges include achieving precise blend and balance within the dense harmonies, maintaining a consistent, expressive slow swing feel, and navigating the nuanced dynamic shifts that underscore the piece's introspective mood. The rewarding aspect lies in the collective creation of a deeply moving and sophisticated musical experience. This arrangement is ideally suited for advanced high school, collegiate, community, and professional big bands. Its sophisticated harmonic language and demands for expressive phrasing make it an excellent vehicle for developing musical maturity and ensemble cohesion. Bands capable of executing complex voicings and maintaining a refined ballad tempo will find this piece a standout in their repertoire, offering both a challenge and a profound artistic reward. To truly capture the essence of this Bob Curnow arrangement, conductors should emphasize a cohesive, unhurried slow swing feel, ensuring the rhythm section provides a steady, yet flexible, foundation. The primary technical challenge lies in achieving precise intonation and blend within the rich, often close-voiced harmonies, particularly in the saxophone and brass sections. Encourage musicians to listen across sections, tuning carefully to chord tones. Dynamics are crucial; the piece calls for a wide range of expression, from delicate pianissimos to full, resonant fortissimos, often within short phrases. Articulation should be smooth and legato, with careful attention to phrase shaping. Soloists (typically alto saxophone or flugelhorn) should focus on melodic interpretation and emotional depth rather than technical flash, allowing the poignant melody to unfold naturally. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to sectional tuning of sustained chords and practicing seamless transitions between ensemble and solo sections. **Q: What instruments are included in this arrangement?** A: This arrangement is scored for a standard 17-instrument big band, including Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones (including Bass Trombone), Piano, Bass, Drums, and Guitar. **Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement?** A: This arrangement is considered advanced, suitable for high school, collegiate, community, and professional big bands. It requires strong ensemble playing, precise intonation, and mature musical interpretation. **Q: What is the musical style and historical context of "Here's That Rainy Day"?** A: "Here's That Rainy Day" is a classic jazz standard, originally composed by Jimmy Van Heusen in 1953. It is a melancholic ballad that became famous through iconic jazz vocal and instrumental recordings, representing the rich tradition of mid-20th century American popular song. **Q: What makes Bob Curnow's arrangement of this piece unique?** A: Bob Curnow's arrangement is distinguished by its sophisticated harmonic voicings, intricate counterpoint, and rich orchestral textures that expand upon the original ballad while preserving its emotional depth. It showcases his characteristic blend of traditional big band writing with contemporary sensibilities, often featuring expressive soli sections and nuanced dynamic contrasts. **Q: What is the typical performance duration and tempo for this arrangement?** A: As a slow ballad, the typical performance duration for this arrangement is approximately 4-6 minutes, depending on improvisation and interpretive choices. It is performed with an unhurried, expressive slow swing feel.