Don't Get Around Much Anymore: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Music by Duke Ellington, lyric by Bob Russell / arr. Ralph Ford
Grade: 1
Item: 00-PK-0002624
$45.00
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Description
The Duke Ellington classic jazz standard is scored for young strings. A superb opportunity to address the jazz component of the standards of learning. The piano part enhances the style. They know the tune -- they'll love the arrangement! Fun to rehearse and a joy to perform. (1:32)
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Additional Details
Series:
Pop Beginning String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
21
SKU:
00-PK-0002624
More about this title
About the Composer: Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington (1899-1974) was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader who fundamentally shaped jazz and American music. Beyond his prolific output of over 1,000 compositions, Ellington demonstrated remarkable skill at writing for diverse ensembles and voices, always prioritizing the distinct character of each performer and instrument. His ability to craft memorable melodies within complex harmonic structures makes his work especially valuable for music education across genres and skill levels.
Ellington's influence extends far beyond the jazz world. His compositional sophistication, emotional depth, and accessibility have made his standards essential repertoire in concert halls, classrooms, and rehearsal rooms worldwide. Teachers value his work because it authentically represents American musical culture while remaining engaging and teachable for developing musicians.
Why we love this
This arrangement introduces young string players to swing style and jazz vocabulary without overwhelming them technically. The melody is instantly recognizable, which builds confidence and engagement during rehearsal. The piano part grounds the style and gives your string section a clear harmonic anchor, transforming what could feel like unfamiliar territory into a supportive, collaborative learning experience.
What to expect
Sophisticated yet approachable, this arrangement captures the elegance and humor of the original. The piece swings with grace, inviting players into a world of blue notes and syncopation that feels both stylish and genuinely fun to perform.
Who it's for
This score works best for young string orchestras in Grades 5-8 who are ready to explore style beyond classical technique. It's designed for programs seeking to integrate jazz and popular standards into their repertoire while building musicianship on familiar melodies.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish a light swing feel by encouraging relaxed bow articulation on the beat and a slight lift between phrases. The music should bounce, not drag.
- Listen carefully to the piano part during rehearsal to internalize the harmonic movement and jazz chord quality. This awareness will deepen your ensemble's rhythmic security.
- Highlight the call-and-response moments between string sections by creating clear dynamic shape and dialogue rather than playing in blocks.
- Record a rehearsal and listen back as a group, focusing on blend and balance across the parts. Ellington's voicing works best when each voice is heard clearly.
How to use it
Program this as a concert opener or contrast piece alongside classical string repertoire to showcase your ensemble's range and versatility. It works especially well in spring concerts or pops programs where audiences expect engaging, recognizable music. Consider pairing it with other jazz standards or American musical theater selections to create a thematic concert section.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and performing swing articulation and syncopation
- Understanding jazz chord quality and harmonic movement
- Collaborating with piano accompaniment in a non-classical context
- Interpreting style markings and performance conventions in jazz
- Balancing independence of voice parts with blend and section unity