Handful of Keys (from Ain't Misbehavin'): Choral SoundPax
From the Musical Ain't Misbehavin'
Words and music by Thomas "Fats" Waller / arr. Larry Shackley
Item: 00-PK-0001325
$20.00
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Description
A terrific four-hand piano version of this showstopper from the musical Ain't Misbehavin'. The lyrics alone are spectacular. And with the great choral writing and piano accompaniment, well, it's a knockout! Showcase your accompanists on this one, or use the SoundTrax CD. Bring the spirit of the legendary Fats Waller to your next concert with this outstanding choral arrangement.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Handful of Keys (from Ain't Misbehavin'): Choral SoundPax comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
28
SKU:
00-PK-0001325
Instrumentation:
SoundPax
More about this title
About the Composer: Thomas "Fats" Waller
Thomas "Fats" Waller (1904-1943) was a virtuoso pianist, organist, and composer who became one of jazz's most influential figures. His stride piano technique and witty, energetic approach to composition defined the Harlem Renaissance sound and influenced generations of jazz musicians. Beyond his instrumental prowess, Waller composed for theater and film, creating music that balanced sophisticated harmony with irresistible swing and humor.
Waller's theatrical sensibility made him a natural for Broadway. "Ain't Misbehavin'," the revue built around his compositions and featuring this showstopper, showcased his gifts for both melody and lyrical wit. His legacy endures not only in jazz standards but in the body of singable, joyful music that continues to delight performers and audiences alike.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures everything that makes "Fats" Waller irresistible: infectious rhythm, melodic charm, and theatrical flair. The four-hand piano part gives your accompanists something genuinely exciting to play, whether you're using live pianists or the recorded accompaniment, and the choral writing sits beautifully while maintaining the song's swagger and personality.
What to expect
Sophisticated without pretension, witty without winking. The music bounces along with genuine swing feel, supported by rich harmonic changes and a melody that sits in the voice comfortably. It's the sound of an artist enjoying himself, inviting everyone in the room to do the same.
Who it's for
This is ideal for choirs seeking Broadway material with real jazz roots and a joyful, confident energy. It works equally well for groups with strong accompanists who want to showcase them, or for ensembles preferring the flexibility and reliability of recorded accompaniment.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the swing feel buoyant and relaxed; let the rhythm breathe rather than pushing the tempo forward.
- Balance the chorus with the piano accompaniment so the lyrics remain clear while the pianists can shine during instrumental passages.
- Lean into the theatrical character of the text; Waller's lyrics invite personality and attitude from your singers.
- If using live accompanists, have them listen to Waller's original recordings to absorb the rhythmic nuance and stride feel that animate this music.
How to use it
Program this as your finale or a strategic second-half opener when you want to shift energy and mood. It pairs naturally with other jazz or American songbook selections, and it's substantial enough (28 pages) to anchor a concert moment without overloading a single program section.
Skills your students will build
- Singing with jazz phrasing and swing feel
- Balancing vocal ensemble with complex piano accompaniment
- Interpretation of theatrical text with character and humor
- Ensemble coordination between choir and accompaniment
- Reading and performing syncopated rhythmic figures in a choral context