Our Loves Is Here To Stay (J.Martin)

George Gershwin’s timeless masterpiece, "Our Love Is Here To Stay"—with lyricist Ira Gershwin completing it shortly before George’s untimely passing in 1937—stands as one of the final and most poignant contributions to the Great American Songbook. Immortalized by jazz legends from Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald to Oscar Peterson and Frank Sinatra, the composition encapsulates the sophisticated harmonic language of the late golden age of American popular song. Originally introduced in the 1938 film *The Goldwyn Follies*, it quickly transcended its cinematic origins to become an essential vehicle for jazz improvisation, celebrated for its cyclical changes and emotionally resonant melody that moves seamlessly between major and minor tonalities. Jim Martin’s sophisticated big band interpretation honors this rich legacy while offering a fresh, texturally nuanced approach tailored for a 6-instrument horn frontline (Alto Saxophone 1, Flute, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, alongside a versatile rhythm section framework spanning 21 meticulously engraved pages). The arrangement opens with an evocative, rubato introduction featuring the flute and lead alto saxophone weaving atmospheric counterpoint before settling into a relaxed, buoyant medium-swing groove. Martin utilizes lush, extended voicings reminiscent of the West Coast cool school, balancing thick, four-part sax solis with transparent, linear accompaniment figures in the lower reeds. The emotional trajectory shifts gracefully from introspective warmth to an uplifting, swinging climax, evoking both nostalgic melancholy and irrepressible optimism. Throughout the chart, melody and counter-melody are distributed thoughtfully across the saxophone section, with the flute providing a bright, shimmering upper-extension color that floats effortlessly above the ensemble. Improvised solo space is strategically integrated following the main melodic statement, providing a supportive background vamp that encourages modal exploration without overcrowding the soloist. Technical demands center primarily on stylistic cohesion, intonation within tight section voicings, and maintaining a relaxed, driving macro-pulse at a moderate tempo. Performers must navigate subtle dynamic shifts and smooth articulation phrasing to capture the sophisticated, late-night club atmosphere that defines Martin’s scoring style. Advanced high school ensembles, collegiate jazz orchestras, and professional regional big bands will find this chart to be an exceptional centerpiece for concert programming. Its sophisticated harmonic palette offers ample educational value for developing students mastering chromatic voice-leading, while its refined arrangement style guarantees a rewarding, emotionally resonant experience for seasoned performers and audiences alike. Achieving success with Jim Martin’s arrangement of "Our Love Is Here To Stay" requires meticulous attention to balance and stylistic uniformity, particularly within the 6-instrument reed section where flute and saxophones blend. The ideal tempo is a relaxed medium swing around quarter note = 112 BPM; dragging the beat will cause the lush extended harmonies to stall, while rushing destroys the inherent warmth of the groove. Conductors should pay close attention to the dynamic contrast between the intimate, rubato intro and the main swing section. Ensure that the rhythm section maintains a feather-light ride cymbal pattern and an understated walking bass line that never forces the pulse. In the saxophone soli sections, balance is critical—ensure the lead alto and flute lines project clearly while inner voices maintain strict intonation on altered dominant chords. Articulations should lean toward a legato-swing approach with gentle tenutos on downbeats, avoiding overly aggressive accents. Rehearsals should begin by isolating the chordal voicings a cappella to lock in the rich harmonic color before integrating the rhythm section's counter-lines. Q: What specific instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This chart is scored for a 6-instrument frontline consisting of Alto Saxophone 1, Flute, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, and Tenor Saxophone 2, supported by a full rhythm section across a 21-page score and parts set. Q: What is the difficulty level of this Jim Martin arrangement? A: It is pitched at an advanced-intermediate to advanced level (grades 4-5), primarily due to the intricate blend required between the woodwinds, sophisticated extended harmonies, and the demand for mature stylistic phrasing. Q: What is the historical style and musical context of this piece? A: Based on George Gershwin’s 1937 classic, this arrangement reimagines the legendary jazz standard through a modern, sophisticated big band lens, emphasizing lush textures and a relaxed swing feel. Q: What makes this particular arrangement by Jim Martin unique? A: Martin’s unique integration of flute as a primary color alongside a dual-alto and dual-tenor saxophone frontline creates a distinctive, airy sonority that sets it apart from traditional five-sax big band orchestrations. Q: What is the recommended performance duration and tempo for this chart? A: The arrangement is designed to be performed at a relaxed medium-swing tempo of approximately 112 BPM, resulting in a performance duration of roughly 4 to 5 minutes depending on solo choruses.