A House Is Not A Home

A House Is Not a Home rhythm arrangement by Bill Fulton is scored for 2 keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. The five-piece instrumentation provides an expressive setting for this classic Burt Bacharach and Hal David song.

A House Is Not a Home Rhythm Arrangement

“A House Is Not a Home” features long melodic lines and rich harmony. As a result, the accompaniment needs room to support the melody without becoming too busy. This arrangement uses two keyboards to provide much of the harmonic color. Guitar, bass, and drums complete the musical foundation.

The instrumentation can produce a surprisingly broad range of textures. One keyboard can establish the main harmonic framework while the other adds another layer of color. The guitar can then provide contrast. Bass and drums give the arrangement its pulse and support changes in intensity.

Arrangement for 2 Keyboards, Guitar, Bass and Drums

A ballad requires restraint as well as musical variety. Too much activity can distract from the melody. Therefore, each instrumental part needs a clear function. This arrangement uses the five musicians to create depth while preserving the expressive quality of the song.

Bill Fulton writes for many ensemble configurations, including rhythm sections, big bands, little big bands, chamber groups, and orchestras. Explore additional projects on the Arrangements, Compositions & Commissions page.

More information about the composer and his extensive catalog is available from the official Burt Bacharach website.

Expressive Writing for a Five-Piece Ensemble

The A House Is Not a Home rhythm arrangement uses a compact ensemble without sacrificing musical depth. Two keyboards provide a broad harmonic palette. Guitar adds another texture, while bass and drums create the foundation beneath the arrangement.

This instrumentation works well for a live setting where a full sound is needed from a small number of musicians. The arrangement gives each player a distinct role and allows the ensemble to shape the song with dynamics, texture, and careful interaction.

Year: 2015
Job Category: Arranger
Title: A House Is Not A Home
Ensemble: 2 keyboardists, guitar, bass, drums
Client: Engelbert Humperdinck
Description: co-arranger with Jeff Sturges
Get arrangement: link to arrangement (pending)