Up Up And Away (H.Rood)

Originally penned by master songwriter Jimmy Webb in 1967 and famously popularized by The 5th Dimension, "Up, Up and Away" captured the buoyant, technicolor optimism of late-sixties pop before swiftly crossing over into the standard jazz repertoire. Countless instrumentalists—from jazz organ icons like Jimmy Smith to arranging titans like Nelson Riddle—recognized the inherent harmonic richness and infectious melodic contour of Webb's composition. In the hands of arranger H.Rood, this timeless tune undergoes a sophisticated transformation, shedding its bubblegum origins while retaining its soaring, euphoric spirit, reframing it through a lens of swinging sophistication and contemporary big band color. Propelled by an upbeat, driving medium-swing feel in 4/4 time, this chart radiates an effervescent energy that immediately engages both the ensemble and the audience. The arrangement opens with a sparkling, harmonically rich intro that sets a breezy, buoyant mood before the full brass section enters with crisp, articulate punches. H.Rood balances traditional swing aesthetics with clever contemporary voicings, utilizing lush saxophone solis, crisp counterlines in the trombones, and a soaring trumpet lead that captures the literal sensation of flight. As the chart progresses through clever modulation and dynamic peaks, it builds toward a high-octane shout chorus that trades traditional predictability for unexpected harmonic twists, keeping performers on their toes and listeners completely captivated. The melodic weight is shared democratically across the ensemble, though the alto saxophone section and lead trumpet take primary responsibility for carrying the iconic theme during the head. Solo opportunities are thoughtfully integrated into the form, allowing a featured improviser to stretch out over accessible, jazz-standard changes that groove naturally. Technically, the chart demands crisp articulation, excellent internal time to maintain the buoyant swing feel without dragging, and precise dynamic control during the quieter transitional interludes. The brass section will appreciate the sensible register writing, which provides plenty of punch and brilliance without resorting to unplayable extreme ranges. Advanced high school groups, collegiate ensembles, and professional community big bands will find this arrangement an ideal centerpiece for a concert program or festival set. It strikes a rare pedagogical and artistic balance: it is challenging enough to push a developing section to refine their ensemble blend, swing articulation, and stylistic uniformity, yet musically mature and engaging enough to satisfy seasoned professional musicians. H.Rood’s meticulous score and part preparation ensure that hours in the rehearsal room translate directly into a polished, high-impact performance. Achieving the authentic, soaring character of H.Rood’s chart requires strict adherence to a bright, driving medium-swing tempo (around quarter note = 132-140 BPM). The rhythm section serves as the engine: the drummer should maintain a crisp, feather-light ride cymbal pattern with a pulsing two-and-four hi-hat choke, avoiding heavy foot-stomping that could bog down the buoyant feel. Horn players must focus on uniform articulation, ensuring that eighth-note lines are properly swung and accented on the upbeat. Pay close attention to the dynamic shifts between the breathy, transparent sax solis and the roaring ensemble brass punches. Trumpets should use subtle falls and doits where indicated, but avoid overusing stylistic effects so the melodic clarity remains pristine. In rehearsal, isolate the rhythm section first to lock in the groove, then layer the horns section by section to balance the intricate inner voicings before opening up the solo section for creative exploration. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this big band arrangement? A: The complete 17-instrument big band instrumentation features Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone 1, Tenor Saxophone 2, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums, along with a comprehensive conductor score. Q: What is the difficulty level of this chart? A: This arrangement is rated as medium-advanced, making it an excellent fit for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional community big bands looking to stretch their swing reading and blend capabilities. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of this piece? A: Based on Jimmy Webb's 1967 pop standard famously recorded by The 5th Dimension, H.Rood reimagines the tune as a swinging, vibrant contemporary big band chart rooted in classic jazz articulation and modern harmonic color. Q: What makes H.Rood's arrangement unique? A: This treatment stands out through its clever modulations, rich saxophone soli sections, and a dynamic shout chorus that transforms a familiar pop melody into a sophisticated, high-energy jazz showcase. Q: What is the recommended performance duration and tempo feel? A: The arrangement runs approximately 3.5 to 4 minutes when performed at the recommended bright medium-swing tempo of roughly 136 BPM.