I'll Be Around (B.Holman)

Alec Wilder's timeless ballad, "I'll Be Around," emerged in 1942, quickly establishing itself as a beloved jazz standard. Wilder, a unique composer known for seamlessly blending jazz and classical sensibilities, crafted this piece with a melodic line described as "smooth and strong," featuring "leaping intervals" that are audacious yet natural. The song's origin story is famously spontaneous: Wilder conceived the title in a taxi, jotted it on an envelope, and later composed the tune in just twenty minutes, though the lyrics took longer. While the Mills Brothers had the first hit version in 1943, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard pop charts, Frank Sinatra is often credited with singing the definitive version, and he became a significant champion of Wilder's work. This enduring piece, structured in a classic AABA form, embodies a quietly poetic sentiment of unwavering presence, making it a staple in the Great American Songbook and a favorite among vocalists and instrumentalists alike. Bill Holman's arrangement of "I'll Be Around" transforms this poignant ballad into a bright, medium-swing big band feature, showcasing his signature ingenuity. Holman, a legendary figure in jazz arranging, is celebrated for his ability to reimagine well-known melodies, creating compelling new works that often sound like original compositions based on a familiar theme. His distinctive style is characterized by unique counterpoint, innovative extensions to standard jazz forms, and a sophisticated sense of humor, all while maintaining exceptional playability. This particular chart is a Grade 5 arrangement, indicative of its advanced nature, and is specifically highlighted as a wonderful trombone feature. Holman's treatment of "I'll Be Around" is a masterclass in big band orchestration. The arrangement opens with a captivating introduction that immediately sets a sophisticated, swinging mood before the melody emerges. The primary melodic statements are often carried by the trombone section, showcasing lyrical soli passages that demand precision and blend. A standout feature is the extensive solo space provided for trombone, allowing a featured soloist to explore the rich harmonic landscape Holman has crafted. True to Holman's style, expect intricate sectional writing, dynamic contrasts, and unexpected harmonic twists that keep both performers and listeners engaged. The chart's rewarding nature lies in its musical depth and the opportunity it provides for a band to truly dig into a classic standard through the lens of one of jazz's most innovative arrangers. This arrangement is ideally suited for college, university, community, and professional big bands. Its Grade 5 difficulty reflects the technical demands and musical maturity required to execute Holman's complex voicings, rhythmic intricacies, and extended harmonies effectively. Bands with strong lead players in all sections, particularly a skilled trombone soloist, will find this chart highly rewarding. Performing this arrangement offers an excellent opportunity to delve into the nuanced world of Bill Holman's writing, enhancing ensemble precision, musicality, and an understanding of advanced big band techniques. Conductors should emphasize a consistent, bright medium-swing feel from the outset, ensuring the rhythm section establishes a solid, driving pulse without rushing. The key technical challenge lies in the intricate counterpoint and close voicings characteristic of Bill Holman's writing, particularly within the saxophone and brass sections. Encourage musicians to listen across sections to achieve optimal balance and blend, focusing on precise articulation to clarify the interwoven lines. The extended trombone solo requires a soloist with strong improvisational skills and a clear, expressive tone. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to shaping the dynamic contours, from subtle whispers to powerful shout choruses, ensuring every musical phrase contributes to the overall narrative. While no specific mutes or special techniques like plungers or doits are explicitly required, musicians should be prepared for nuanced brass phrasing and controlled releases. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This big band arrangement is scored for 20 instruments, including Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 1 & 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1-4, Trombone 1-4, Guitar, Piano, Bass, and Drums. It also includes a comprehensive conductor score. Q: What is the difficulty level of "I'll Be Around (B.Holman)"? A: This arrangement is rated Grade 5 (Advanced), indicating it is suitable for experienced college, university, community, and professional big bands. It requires strong technical proficiency and musical maturity from all sections. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of this arrangement? A: This is a jazz standard arranged in a bright medium-swing style. The original song was composed by Alec Wilder in 1942, and this arrangement by Bill Holman reimagines it for a contemporary big band sound. Q: What makes Bill Holman's arrangement of "I'll Be Around" unique? A: Holman's arrangement is renowned for its sophisticated harmonic language, intricate counterpoint, and innovative big band voicings. It features extensive solo space for trombone and showcases Holman's signature ability to transform a classic ballad into a vibrant, swinging chart. Q: What is the typical performance duration or tempo for this piece? A: While specific duration can vary with interpretation, this arrangement is designed as a bright medium-swing, typically performed at a tempo that allows for both lyrical expression and energetic drive. The performance duration is generally in the 4-6 minute range, common for a big band feature.