It's Almost Tomorrow: E-Z Play Today

This is a chance to explore how pop standards sit comfortably on the piano. The simplicity of the arrangement lets pianists focus on accompaniment voicing and responding to a vocalist's phrasing, making it ideal for anyone learning to collaborate.

Nostalgic and unhurried, with the warm intimacy of a radio broadcast from another era. The melody unfolds with the kind of natural grace that comes from songs written for singers, not for instrumental display.

Pianists building their standard repertoire and those preparing to accompany singers in small ensemble or solo settings. It also suits teachers looking for accessible material that demonstrates jazz-influenced harmonic thinking on the page.

• Listen to Stafford's original recording to absorb how the melody sits rhythmically against the beat. Piano players often rush standards; her version shows the power of patient placement.
• Voice the left hand to support the harmonic motion without crowding the melody. These older pop tunes often need a lighter touch than modern arrangements.
• Shape the phrase endings gently rather than pushing into them. Standards live in the spaces between notes as much as in the notes themselves.

Feature this in a recital program that explores the Great American Songbook, pairing it with other standards from the same period. It works particularly well in a casual concert setting or as an opener for a vocal collaboration showcase.

• Accompaniment voicing and harmonic support
• Rubato and flexibility in responding to a vocalist's phrasing
• Understanding pop standard form and structure
• Stylistic awareness of mid-century popular music conventions