Isn't It Romantic (J.Martin)

Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart originally penned "Isn't It Romantic" for the 1932 Paramount musical film *Love Me Tonight*, where it was famously introduced by Maurice Chevalier and Jeanette MacDonald. It rapidly ascended into the pantheon of the Great American Songbook, embraced by jazz icons from Art Tatum and Chet Baker to Ella Fitzgerald and John Coltrane. The tune's sophisticated AABA form, graceful harmonic motion, and melancholic yet uplifting melody make it an enduring canvas for jazz interpretation, bridging the gap between classic Broadway operetta and modern harmonic exploration. Jim Martin frames this timeless standard as a lush, expressive medium-tempo swing ballad that balances rich, impressionistic chord clusters with traditional big band warmth. Unfolding at a relaxed, conversational quarter-note pace around 104 BPM, the arrangement projects an air of smoky sophistication and romantic introspection. Martin utilizes extended tertian harmonies—incorporating ninth, eleventh, and altered thirteenth chords—to give the brass and reed sections a distinctly modern, West Coast-leaning sheen reminiscent of the arrangements written for the Stan Kenton or Gerry Mulligan orchestras, while maintaining a smooth, danceable pulse underneath. Opening with a rubato atmospheric intro featuring open trumpet and delicate piano voicings, the chart transitions smoothly into a relaxed swing feel where the lead alto saxophone and muted trombones share the primary thematic exposition. The arrangement features a sublime harmonized sax soli in the second chorus that requires pristine intonation and fluid articulation, followed by a dynamic shout chorus that builds organically without ever sacrificing the underlying intimacy of the melody. Solo opportunities are provided for tenor saxophone and second trumpet, both supported by subtle, moving counter-lines in the background brass. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional jazz ensembles will find this 73-page manuscript deeply rewarding. While the rhythm section must maintain an elastic, feather-light ride cymbal feel and subtle comping, the horn sections are challenged by sophisticated dynamic control, blend, and subtle pitch-bending rather than sheer velocity. Conductor oversight is essential to balance the dense, multi-layered chordal voicings in the lower reeds against the shimmering high-register trumpet parts, ensuring that Rodgers' immortal melody remains the emotional focal point from the first downbeat to the final suspended chord. Balancing dense, rich harmonic voicings while maintaining a forward-moving, relaxed swing groove presents the primary technical challenge of this arrangement. Conductors should emphasize breath support and blend during the exposed sax soli to prevent the rich 9th and 13th chords from sounding heavy or out of tune. The tempo must remain steady yet elastic around 104 BPM; avoid rushing the bridge sections where the harmonic rhythm quickens. Trumpets and trombones should utilize cup or harmon mutes where indicated in the intro and backgrounds to establish a moody, noir-inspired atmosphere before opening up for the ensemble shout. Rhythm section players need to exercise restraint: the guitar and piano should use sparse, tasteful voicings, avoiding clutter behind the horn soloists, while the drummer keeps a crisp, whispering wire-brush or light stick pattern on the ride cymbal to preserve the intimate ballad feel. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this big band arrangement? A: The complete 73-page package includes a full conductor score and 17 individual instrument parts: 5 saxophones (2 altos, 2 tenors, 1 baritone), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This arrangement is rated for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands due to its sophisticated extended harmonies, requirement for precise intonation in the sax soli, and refined stylistic maturity. Q: What is the historical background and style of "Isn't It Romantic"? A: Originally composed by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1932, this arrangement frames the classic standard as a lush, sophisticated medium-tempo swing ballad rooted in the Great American Songbook tradition. Q: What makes Jim Martin's treatment of this standard unique? A: Martin infuses the chart with West Coast-influenced impressionistic harmonies, clever counter-lines, and a seamless balance between intimate, muted ensemble textures and a soaring, dynamic shout chorus. Q: What is the recommended performance tempo and duration? A: The arrangement is designed to be performed at a relaxed, swinging medium tempo of approximately 104 beats per minute, resulting in a performance duration of roughly 4 to 5 minutes depending on solo extensions.