I'll Remember April: E-Z Play Today

This arrangement captures the sophistication of Herman's orchestrations in a format accessible for solo piano study. The voicings and harmonic movement reflect the big band sound but translate beautifully to the keyboard, giving pianists insight into how professionals voice standards.

Warm and reflective, with the kind of sophisticated swing that doesn't announce itself loudly. The melody sits comfortably in a middle register while the harmony underneath carries depth and movement, creating the impression of a full orchestra condensed to the keyboard.

Piano students who want to understand how standards sound in a big band context and are ready to tackle the harmonic language of mid-century jazz arranging. This works well for students moving from lead sheets into fuller arrangements, or anyone building their standards repertoire with an ear toward ensemble application.

• Pay attention to the harmonic movement underneath the melody; Herman's arrangements typically voice chords with purpose, and those voice leadings will guide your touch and phrasing.
• Study the original recording to internalize the swing feel and tempo before locking into written rhythms; the notation can only suggest what the orchestra projects.
• Let the minor key passages breathe. This tune navigates between major and minor centers, and clarity in that shift matters more than speed.

Assign this as part of a unit on standards and their life across different instrumentation and ensembles. It pairs well with other piano treatments of jazz standards, or as preparation material for students who will soon improvise or arrange these same changes for small groups.

• Voice leading in jazz harmony
• Recognizing and executing swing articulation
• Reading piano voicings derived from orchestral texture
• Phrasing standards with attention to both melody and underlying harmonic movement