Taking A Chance On Love (in G and C)

Bill Fulton created this Taking a Chance on Love big band arrangement in both G and C for the Gold Coast Gold Big Band in 2017. Written for vocalist and full jazz ensemble, the chart gives bands two practical key choices while preserving the character of this enduring American popular standard.

A Classic Song in Two Vocal Keys

Vernon Duke composed “Taking a Chance on Love,” with lyrics by John La Touche and Ted Fetter. The song first appeared in the 1940 Broadway musical Cabin in the Sky, where Ethel Waters introduced it. Since then, many jazz singers and instrumentalists have interpreted the tune. More information about the song and its history appears in the Taking a Chance on Love song overview.

Bill’s arrangement places the familiar melody in a medium swing setting. In addition, the writing gives the vocalist a clear lead role while the ensemble adds color, rhythmic movement, and contrast. The horn backgrounds support the lyric without constantly competing for attention. As a result, the chart works as both a vocal feature and a complete big band performance.

Versions in G and C

The arrangement exists in two separate keys. The G version suits an alto-range female vocalist, while the C version offers an alternative range for a soprano or another singer who prefers the higher key. Therefore, a band can select the edition that best supports its featured vocalist instead of forcing the singer into an uncomfortable register.

Both editions use standard big band instrumentation. The ensemble calls for five saxophones, four trumpets, four trombones, guitar, piano or keyboard, bass, and drums, plus the featured vocalist. Bill shaped the accompaniment around a crisp swing feel, clear ensemble figures, and responsive interaction between the singer and the band.

Professional Big Band Vocal Writing

This project reflects Bill Fulton’s experience writing for singers as well as large jazz ensembles. Effective vocal arranging requires more than adding horn figures behind a melody. The arranger must consider the singer’s range, breathing, phrasing, diction, and dynamic space. Meanwhile, the band still needs satisfying musical material and a strong sense of development.

For that reason, this chart balances vocal clarity with active ensemble writing. Reeds and brass contribute harmonic depth and momentum, while the rhythm section maintains the medium swing groove. Moreover, the two-key approach makes the arrangement useful for a wider range of singers and performance situations.

Purchase the Complete Arrangement

Directors and performers can purchase the Taking a Chance on Love arrangement in G or the Taking a Chance on Love arrangement in C. Each product page provides the information needed to select the appropriate edition.

You can also explore more big band arrangements by Bill Fulton or contact Bill Fulton about a custom vocal or instrumental arrangement.

Year: 2017
Job Category: Arranger
Title: Taking A Chance On Love (in G and C)
Ensemble: big band
Client: Gold Coast Gold big band
Description: various
Get arrangement: link to arrangement (pending)