They Cant Take That Away From Me (A.Dedrick)

George Gershwin's timeless ballad, "They Can't Take That Away From Me," emerged from the Golden Age of Hollywood, debuting in the 1937 film "Shall We Dance" where it was introduced by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. This enduring melody quickly cemented its status as a quintessential American Standard, beloved for its lyrical poignancy and sophisticated harmonic structure. It encapsulates the romantic sentimentality of the pre-war era, becoming a staple in the repertoires of jazz vocalists and instrumentalists alike, with iconic recordings by Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Louis Armstrong, among countless others. Its enduring appeal lies in its elegant simplicity and the universal theme of cherished memories, making it a foundational piece in the jazz canon. Art Dedrick's arrangement of this beloved standard presents a sophisticated medium swing interpretation, perfectly capturing the song's inherent charm while infusing it with classic big band flair. Set primarily in the key of F major, the arrangement maintains a relaxed, conversational tempo that allows the melody to breathe and the rich harmonies to unfold gracefully. Dedrick, known for his accessible yet musically rewarding charts, crafts an arrangement that evokes a warm, nostalgic mood, reminiscent of the classic Basie or Miller big band sounds. The energy is consistently smooth and flowing, building subtly through dynamic contrasts rather than abrupt shifts, ensuring a cohesive and emotionally resonant performance. Dedrick's distinctive approach is evident in his masterful voicings and thoughtful orchestration. The melody is initially presented by the lead alto saxophone, often doubled by the trumpet section, creating a lush, blended timbre. Subsequent choruses feature the full ensemble, with beautifully crafted soli sections for the saxophones that showcase Dedrick's signature close-harmony writing, providing both warmth and clarity. A prominent feature is the inclusion of a written-out solo for the tenor saxophone, offering a lyrical improvisation that fits seamlessly within the arrangement's character. The chart avoids a bombastic shout chorus, opting instead for a more refined, building intensity through layered brass and saxophone figures that culminate in a satisfying, full-ensemble statement of the theme before a gentle, sustained ending. This arrangement is ideally suited for high school and college jazz ensembles, as well as community bands seeking a polished and rewarding performance piece. While demanding precision in ensemble blend and articulation, its moderate technical requirements make it an excellent vehicle for developing musicality, phrasing, and dynamic control within a big band context. The clear melodic lines and well-voiced harmonies provide an accessible entry point for younger musicians to engage with a classic jazz standard, while offering enough depth to satisfy more experienced players. Its timeless appeal and Art Dedrick's expert craftsmanship ensure it will be a cherished addition to any band's repertoire. Conductors should aim for a relaxed, medium swing feel, emphasizing a smooth, legato approach to phrasing, particularly in the melodic sections. The tempo should be steady, allowing the quarter note to breathe without dragging. Key technical challenges include achieving precise blend and balance within the saxophone soli sections, ensuring the inner voices are heard without overpowering the lead. Brass players should focus on warm, sustained tones, avoiding overly aggressive attacks. The written tenor saxophone solo should be played with a lyrical, expressive quality, fitting the ballad-like nature of the piece. Dynamic contrasts are crucial; encourage musicians to play into the phrases and observe the subtle crescendos and diminuendos to build emotional depth. No special mutes or extended techniques are required, allowing the focus to remain on tone quality and ensemble cohesion. Rehearsals should prioritize intonation, especially in sustained chords, and the rhythmic accuracy of the swing eighth notes. Q: What instruments are included in this arrangement? A: This arrangement is scored for a standard 17-piece big band: Alto Saxophone 1 & 2, Tenor Saxophone 1 & 2, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet 1-4, Trombone 1-4, Piano, Bass, and Drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of "They Can't Take That Away From Me (A.Dedrick)"? A: This arrangement is considered medium difficulty, suitable for high school, college, and community jazz ensembles. It offers musical challenges in blend and phrasing without overly demanding technical virtuosity. Q: What musical style and historical context does this arrangement represent? A: This is a classic jazz standard from 1937, arranged in a medium swing style reminiscent of the big band era. It evokes a romantic, nostalgic mood characteristic of American popular music from that period. Q: What makes Art Dedrick's arrangement of this piece unique? A: Dedrick's treatment is characterized by elegant, accessible voicings, a lyrical tenor saxophone solo, and a sophisticated medium swing feel that builds subtly through ensemble layering rather than a traditional shout chorus, emphasizing musicality and blend. Q: What is the approximate performance duration and tempo for this arrangement? A: The approximate performance duration is 3-4 minutes, depending on the chosen tempo and any optional solo extensions. It is intended to be played at a relaxed, medium swing tempo, typically around 120-130 BPM.