Don't Get Around Much Anymore (arr. Mark Brymer)

Mark Brymer's arrangement captures all the sophistication of the jazz standard while making it accessible to mixed ensembles. The voicing balances elegance with singability, giving students a genuine taste of swinging without requiring advanced jazz technique to sound polished.

Relaxed and reflective with a touch of wry humor. The melody unfolds like a conversation, accompanied by harmonies that suggest late-night sophistication without pretension. It swings naturally and invites the listener to settle in.

Jazz ensembles, show choirs, and vocal groups seeking a standard with genuine harmonic interest and timeless appeal. The arrangement sits well for mixed voicing and accommodates both confident singers and those building their jazz vocabulary.

• Shape the melody line with gentle rubato in the opening phrase rather than metronomic precision; the lyrical quality depends on breathing room.
• Anchor the rhythm section to maintain the easy-walking groove that defines the tune's character, preventing it from feeling rushed.
• Let the harmony breathe in the bridge; the chord changes contain enough color that overpowering them with volume works against the arrangement.

This works beautifully as an opener or closer for a jazz or vocal concert, setting a warm, intimate tone. It pairs well alongside other American standards from the same era, or serves as a bridge between contemporary music and classic repertoire.

• Phrasing and interpretation of jazz-influenced melody
• Singing through or playing around chord changes
• Balance between legit and jazz vocal production
• Style-appropriate articulation and breath control