How My Heart Sings (arr. Mike Tomaro): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

Tomaro's voicings honor Evans' harmonic language while making the piece accessible for a full ensemble. The meter shifts between 4/4 and 3/4 create subtle rhythmic interest that challenges your players without derailing the groove, and the medium swing tempo sits in a sweet spot for ensemble precision.

Introspective and urbane, with the kind of elegant restraint that Evans brought to everything he touched. The alternating meters create a gentle restlessness, never quite settling, while the harmonic language stays rich and thoughtful throughout.

Any jazz ensemble ready to move beyond basic blues and rhythm changes into sophisticated standards repertoire. The Grade 4 level assumes solid section reading and some comfort with swing style.

• Balance the ensemble to let harmonic color emerge from the saxes and brass; this arrangement rewards listening rather than overpowering.
• Anchor the meter changes in the rhythm section first. Once drums, bass, and piano lock into the switch, the horns will follow naturally.
• Shape the melody with space and breath rather than legit phrasing; swing tunes need air to swing.

Pair this with other Bill Evans compositions or recordings as part of a standards showcase, or feature it during a concert program where you want to demonstrate your ensemble's maturity and harmonic sophistication. It works particularly well in programs exploring how great composers reshape jazz classics.

• Reading and executing meter changes (4/4 to 3/4 alternation)
• Playing swing style with subtle dynamics and phrasing
• Responding to harmonic complexity and voice leading
• Ensemble balance in jazz textures