I Get A Kick Out Of You (B.May-T.Dorsey)

Cole Porter’s timeless 1934 masterpiece "I Get a Kick Out of You," originally introduced in the Broadway musical *Anything Goes*, cemented its status as a cornerstone of the Great American Songbook through countless vocal and instrumental interpretations. While immortalized by legendary vocalists like Ethel Merman and Frank Sinatra, the tune also proved fertile ground for instrumental jazz innovators. This definitive big band interpretation captures the height of mid-century swinging sophistication, filtering Porter's sophisticated harmonic framework through the distinctively punchy, brass-forward aesthetic of the post-swing era. Driven by an infectious, bright medium-up swing groove in 4/4 time, this chart radiates high-octane energy and theatrical flair. The arrangement balances sparkling, witty melodic statements with a relentless, driving momentum that evokes the glamour and nocturnal excitement of 1950s supper clubs and television variety specials. Billy May’s signature arranging footprint is unmistakable throughout the score, characterized by his inimitable use of slurred, blues-infused saxophones, roaring brass sections, and rhythmically surprising accents that keep both the performers and the audience on the edge of their seats. May approaches the standard with a brilliant structural arc, cleverly subverting standard chorus forms through dynamic contrast and sparkling counterlines. The 8-instrument instrumentation—featuring a tightly knit horn section of Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet, and Trombone alongside rhythm—is voiced with incredible economy and punch, achieving a massive, room-filling sound despite its compact size. The woodwinds frequently execute intricate, cascading solis that interlock seamlessly with brass stabs, while the brass utilize hallmark stylistic devices like plunger effects and dramatic falls to inject personality into every phrase. A powerhouse shout chorus builds inexorably toward a thrilling climax, demanding crisp articulation, dynamic precision, and absolute rhythmic synchronicity from the entire ensemble. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles will find this arrangement an exceptionally rewarding addition to their repertoire. While the chart demands a mature grasp of swing subdivision, precise section blend, and agile execution from the lead players, its infectious energy guarantees an unforgettable audience response. Directors will appreciate how effectively the score highlights individual section strengths while maintaining a cohesive, high-impact ensemble sound that showcases the gold standard of big band arranging. Navigating this chart successfully requires a rigorous approach to articulation and stylistic consistency. The tempo should sit comfortably in a bright medium-swing pocket (around quarter note = 160–168 BPM); rushing the beat will dilute the swagger inherent in May’s writing. * **Rhythmic Precision:** The eighth-note feel must be properly swung with an articulated, lightweight triplet feel in the lighter passages, contrasting sharply with heavy, accented downbeats during the aggressive brass punches. * **Brass Effects:** Trumpets and trombones must execute falls, doits, and optional plunger work with absolute unity of shape and release; ensure the mutes match across the section where indicated. * **Saxophone Section:** The saxes need a light, agile approach for the fast scalar passages, blending their tone to sound like a single unified voice beneath the brass leads. * **Rehearsal Strategy:** Isolate the rhythm section first to lock in the driving ride-cymbal and bass line foundation before layering in the horn sections. Pay close attention to dynamic markings; the contrast between whispered background figures and roaring ensemble climaxes is what brings this arrangement to life. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: The chart is scored for an 8-instrument ensemble comprising Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet, and Trombone, alongside a full rhythm section. Q: What is the difficulty level of this Billy May arrangement? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced, making it best suited for college, professional, or advanced high school big bands with strong lead players and experienced rhythm section musicians. Q: What is the historical style and background of this piece? A: Based on Cole Porter’s 1934 Broadway standard, this chart reflects the swinging, high-energy mid-century jazz style famously championed by arranger Billy May during the peak big band and studio eras. Q: What makes this specific arrangement unique? A: It features Billy May’s trademark arranging devices, including slurred saxophone solis, witty brass counterlines, dynamic dynamic shifts, and an explosive shout chorus that reinterprets a classic vocal standard into a purely instrumental powerhouse. Q: What is the performance duration and recommended tempo for this chart? A: The arrangement runs approximately 3 to 4 minutes and is designed to be performed at a bright, driving medium-swing tempo around 160–168 BPM.