Don't Get Around Much Anymore: Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score

Ralph Ford's arrangement captures the elegance and swing of Ellington's original while remaining genuinely playable for developing ensembles. The chart respects the composer's harmonic language without overwhelming inexperienced soloists or section players, making it one of the most accessible entry points into authentic jazz repertoire. Programming this during Ellington's centennial year (or any year) gives students a chance to engage with American music history through their instruments.

The tune swings with an unhurried, sophisticated ease. There's a gentle sophistication beneath its accessibility, a sense of elegance that belongs equally in a ballroom or a concert hall. The harmonic movement is warm and inviting, with moments of gentle surprise that make the melody memorable without ever becoming saccharine.

This score is designed for jazz ensemble directors leading students in Grades 2-4 who are ready to play authentic jazz repertoire without excessive difficulty. Players need secure fundamentals in their instruments and familiarity with basic swing feel, but not advanced improvisation skills or experience with complex harmonic substitutions. It works equally well for middle school jazz bands and early high school groups building their jazz vocabulary.

• Balance the melody line with the rhythm section; this tune relies on the interplay between horns and rhythm rather than any single voice dominating.
• Pay attention to the swing feel throughout. Straight eighth notes will rob the piece of its essential character, so ensure your ensemble commits to a consistent, relaxed swing eighth subdivision.
• Let the soloists breathe and shape their phrases naturally rather than rushing through changes. Ellington's harmonic movement invites melodic creativity, and Ford's chart gives soloists room to find their voice.
• Use the recorded accompaniment or backing tracks (if available as a separate product) to build ensemble confidence before running full rehearsals with all parts.

Feature this as a centerpiece on a jazz concert celebrating American composers, or pair it alongside other Ellington arrangements to show the range of his writing across tempos and styles. The moderate length (2:44) makes it ideal for a concert program that balances feature pieces with shorter selections, and its accessibility means you can program it confidently whether this is your ensemble's first public performance or a mid-season concert.

• Reading jazz chord changes and understanding functional harmony in jazz context
• Swing eighth-note feel and relaxed phrasing in a jazz setting
• Listening for and blending with the rhythm section while maintaining individual voice independence
• Basic solo improvisation over jazz changes (for soloists)
• Responding to and playing with authentic jazz articulation and style