It's All Right With Me (C.Porter)

Cole Porter's timeless standard "It's All Right With Me," originally penned for the 1953 musical *Can-Can*, quickly transcended its Broadway origins to become a cornerstone of the jazz repertoire. Its sophisticated harmonic progression, characterized by a series of descending dominant seventh chords and a memorable, angular melody, made it an instant favorite among vocalists and instrumentalists alike. While Frank Sinatra's iconic 1955 recording with Nelson Riddle's arrangement is often cited as definitive, the tune's inherent swing and lyrical depth have inspired countless interpretations by jazz giants from Chet Baker to Ella Fitzgerald, solidifying its status as a true jazz standard. The piece embodies the elegant and witty musicality of the mid-20th century American Songbook, offering a blend of romanticism and understated swagger that remains perennially appealing. C.Porter's big band arrangement of "It's All Right With Me" reimagines this classic with a vibrant, medium-up swing feel, set in the key of F major. The arrangement immediately establishes a sophisticated, driving energy, maintaining the original's inherent charm while infusing it with contemporary big band sensibilities. The mood is one of confident swing and joyful interplay, suitable for a concert opener or a featured instrumental showcase. The chart opens with a tight, harmonically rich saxophone soli that immediately grabs attention, setting the stage for the full ensemble's dynamic entrance. Throughout the piece, C.Porter masterfully employs extended harmonies and intricate counterlines, adding layers of complexity and interest without sacrificing the tune's melodic clarity. This arrangement showcases C.Porter's signature approach to big band writing: a meticulous balance of ensemble power and individual expression. The melody is primarily carried by the lead alto saxophone, often doubled or harmonized by the trumpet section, creating a bright and assertive sound. There are ample opportunities for improvisation, with featured solo sections for tenor saxophone and trumpet, allowing soloists to stretch out over the familiar changes. The chart builds dynamically, leading to a powerful shout chorus that features the full brass section in a compelling call-and-response with the saxophones, culminating in a driving ensemble finish. Technical challenges include precise articulation in the brass figures, maintaining a consistent swing feel at a medium-up tempo, and navigating the harmonic richness of the saxophone solis. The rewarding aspect lies in the sheer joy of executing a well-crafted big band chart that truly swings. "It's All Right With Me" by C.Porter is ideally suited for advanced high school, collegiate, and community big bands, as well as professional ensembles seeking a fresh, yet authentic, take on a jazz classic. The arrangement demands a solid rhythm section, strong lead players in both the saxophone and trumpet sections, and an ensemble capable of nuanced dynamics and precise execution. Its blend of traditional swing elements with modern big band voicings makes it an excellent teaching tool for exploring advanced harmony and ensemble cohesion, while also providing a thrilling performance experience for both musicians and audiences. This arrangement of "It's All Right With Me" thrives on a consistent, driving medium-up swing feel, typically around ♩=180-192. Emphasize a light, buoyant quarter-note pulse in the rhythm section, avoiding any heaviness. Brass players should focus on crisp, unified articulation, particularly in the syncopated figures, ensuring clear attacks and releases. The saxophone soli sections require careful attention to blend and intonation, with inner voices maintaining their harmonic clarity. Encourage soloists to embrace the tune's harmonic sophistication, utilizing extended scales and arpeggios over the changes. Dynamic contrasts are crucial; build energy gradually towards the shout chorus, then pull back slightly before the final push. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to achieving a tight ensemble sound in the shout chorus and ensuring the rhythm section provides a solid, unwavering foundation throughout. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This arrangement includes parts for 19 instruments: Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2, Trumpet 3, Trumpet 4, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Trombone 3, Bass Trombone, Guitar, Piano, Bass, Drums, and includes a full Conductor Score, totaling 27 pages. Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This arrangement is considered advanced, suitable for collegiate, community, and professional big bands. It requires strong lead players, precise ensemble articulation, and a rhythm section capable of maintaining a consistent medium-up swing feel. Q: What musical style and historical context does this arrangement represent? A: This arrangement is a big band jazz standard, based on Cole Porter's classic tune from the 1953 musical *Can-Can*. It embodies the sophisticated swing and harmonic richness characteristic of the mid-20th century American Songbook. Q: What makes C.Porter's arrangement of "It's All Right With Me" unique? A: C.Porter's arrangement stands out for its vibrant medium-up swing feel, sophisticated saxophone solis, and powerful shout chorus. It blends traditional big band elements with contemporary voicings, offering a fresh yet authentic interpretation of the classic. Q: What is the approximate performance duration and tempo of this arrangement? A: The approximate performance duration is around 4-5 minutes, depending on the length of improvised solos. The recommended tempo is a medium-up swing, typically in the range of ♩=180-192.