What Is This Thing Called Love - Cole Porter - Jerry Gray - Artie Shaw - Foxtrot (J.Gray)

Cole Porter’s timeless 1929 standard "What Is This Thing Called Love" occupies a foundational place in the Great American Songbook, revered for its unusual harmonic structure and haunting, modal-leaning melody. While originally penned for the Broadway musical *Wake Up and Dream*, the tune was swiftly embraced by the jazz pantheon. Its transformation into a premier vehicle for improvisers reached a defining zenith through the swinging, sophisticated lenses of Artie Shaw and his legendary orchestrator, Jerry Gray. The Shaw-Gray collaboration defined the polished, high-art end of the swing era, seamlessly bridging the gap between accessible dance rhythms and intricate, compositionally rigorous jazz. Driven by an infectious, propulsive foxtrot-to-swing pulse in 4/4 time, this arrangement radiates a cool, urbane sophistication characteristic of the late-1930s big band sound. The mood shifts effortlessly between sultry, understated ensemble phrasing and bursts of high-octane swing energy. Gray’s characteristic arranging genius shines through his immaculate reed voicings and counterpoint, which extract maximum tension and release from Porter’s iconic chromatic descending baseline. The arrangement evokes the smoky elegance of mid-century ballroom culture while maintaining a rhythmic drive that keeps both performers and listeners thoroughly captivated from the downbeat. Jerry Gray approaches the score with his signature penchant for clarinet-led textures (naturally tailored to Artie Shaw's frontline aesthetic) and lush, harmonically rich brass backgrounds. Rather than relying on simple block-chord harmonization, Gray employs dense, sophisticated voicings that give the 17-piece ensemble a remarkably full, chamber-like transparency. The reeds often carry the primary thematic weight, trading sparkling counter-melodies with muted brass statements. Solos are strategically integrated to maintain momentum, allowing lead players to soar over a meticulously crafted harmonic net without ever bogging down the forward motion of the chart. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands will find this 26-page masterwork a rewarding challenge that refines section blend, intonation, and stylistic versatility. The primary technical demands center on precision swing articulation, stylistic uniformity within the saxophone section, and maintaining a light, buoyant feel at a brisk tempo. Distinctive musical moments—such as the seamless transitions between driving full-ensemble tutti sections and delicate, rhythm-section-backed interludes—ensure that this arrangement remains an unforgettable centerpiece for any serious jazz ensemble's repertoire. Conductors should approach this arrangement with an emphasis on crisp, lightweight swing articulation rather than heavy, exaggerated accents. The tempo should maintain a driving, danceable foxtrot pulse that never drags, allowing the eighth-note lines to bounce naturally. Saxophone sections must focus on seamless blend and intonation, particularly during the chromatic passages where Gray’s tight voicings expose any pitch discrepancies. Brass players should utilize subtle cup or straight mutes where indicated to achieve the authentic late-30s pastel coloring, reserving open horns for the dynamic shout choruses. Rehearsal time is best divided by isolating the complex rhythmic interplay between the rhythm section and the horn backgrounds. Ensure the bass and drums lock into a steady, unhurried groove that anchors the ensemble while permitting the melodic voices the freedom to phrase flexibly over the bar lines. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This 26-page big band chart is scored for a standard 17-instrument jazz ensemble, comprising Alto Sax 1, Alto Sax 2, Tenor Sax 1, Tenor Sax 2, Baritone Sax, trumpet and trombone sections, and a full rhythm section. Q: What is the difficulty level of this Jerry Gray arrangement? A: This piece is best suited for advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands due to its sophisticated harmonic structures, detailed articulation requirements, and demand for precise section balance. Q: What is the historical context and musical style of the chart? A: Styled as a classic swing-era foxtrot, this arrangement captures the sophisticated sound popularized by Artie Shaw and arranger Jerry Gray, transforming Cole Porter's 1929 Broadway standard into an essential jazz instrumental. Q: What makes this particular arrangement unique? A: Jerry Gray’s distinctive approach features intricate reed counterpoint, sophisticated chromatic voicings inspired by the Artie Shaw orchestra style, and seamless transitions between lush, textured backgrounds and swinging tutti sections. Q: What is the expected performance tempo and duration? A: The arrangement is set at a brisk, medium-up swing foxtrot tempo, typically clocking in at around 3 to 4 minutes depending on the length and number of improvised solo choruses taken.