What is this Thing Called Love little big band arrangement by Bill Fulton

Description

What Is This Thing Called Love Little Big Band Arrangement by Bill Fulton gives the classic Cole Porter standard an energetic, uptempo jazz treatment. Four horns create a strong ensemble sound. Meanwhile, the rhythm section adds drive, flexibility, and momentum. As a result, the chart delivers much of the excitement of a larger jazz ensemble with fewer players.

The horn section features alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, and trombone. Together, these instruments provide a wide range of colors and textures. In addition, guitar, piano or keyboard, bass, and drums form the rhythm section. Therefore, the ensemble remains compact while offering plenty of musical variety.

What Is This Thing Called Love Little Big Band Arrangement

This arrangement works well for musicians who want the punch of big band writing without a full traditional big band. For example, the chart can fit jazz concerts, club performances, and smaller ensemble programs. It also offers a practical choice for bands with limited personnel.

The uptempo feel keeps the music moving from beginning to end. Moreover, the compact instrumentation helps every musical line remain clear. The horns can create tight ensemble passages as well as contrasting textures. At the same time, the rhythm section provides a strong foundation and keeps the chart moving forward.

Instrumentation for the Little Big Band Arrangement

• Alto sax
• Tenor sax
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• Guitar
• Piano/Keyboard
• Bass
• Drums

This instrumentation places the chart firmly in the little big band tradition. Although the ensemble uses only four horns, those instruments cover a broad musical range. Consequently, the group can produce substantial ensemble passages without requiring full saxophone, trumpet, and trombone sections.

An Uptempo What Is This Thing Called Love Arrangement

Cole Porter wrote “What Is This Thing Called Love?” in 1929. Since then, musicians have embraced the song as an enduring jazz standard. The Morgan Library & Museum preserves an early published score of the song. Furthermore, the tune’s strong harmony and memorable melody have inspired generations of jazz musicians.

Bill Fulton approaches the standard with an energetic ensemble concept. Instead of simply reducing a traditional big band texture, the arrangement takes advantage of four distinct horn voices. Therefore, each horn contributes directly to the overall sound. The smaller section also gives the musical lines additional clarity.

A Practical Little Big Band Jazz Chart

The What Is This Thing Called Love Little Big Band Arrangement offers a recognizable jazz standard in a compact format. In addition, its uptempo character provides useful contrast with ballads and medium-tempo selections. Thus, bands can use the chart to add energy and variety to a concert or set.

Finally, the eight-piece instrumentation makes this arrangement practical for many working ensembles. Players can achieve a full horn sound without assembling a conventional big band. For more music written for compact jazz ensembles, explore Bill Fulton’s little big band arrangements and charts.

Instrumentation:

• Alto sax
• Tenor sax
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• Guitar
• Piano/Keyboard
• Bass
• Drums

Genre: jazz