Keep Smiling at Trouble (Trouble's a Bubble) (arr. Kirby Shaw): Choral Instrumental Pak
By Lewis E. Gensler / Arranged by Kirby Shaw
Item: 35-PK01275651
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Description
An old-fashioned song with an ageless text, this Lewis Gensler original-- notably covered by Al Jolson and Tony Bennett-- can occupy virtually any space in your concert. Fun, up-beat, and full of infectious charm!
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK01275651
More about this title
About the Composer: Lewis E. Gensler
Lewis E. Gensler (1896-1953) was a prolific composer and lyricist whose songs became standards of the American songbook. Working primarily in musical theater during the 1920s and 1930s, Gensler crafted melodies that balanced sophistication with accessibility, earning respect from both Broadway audiences and jazz musicians who would later record his work.
Gensler's output included music for Broadway shows like "The Madcap" and "Tip-Toes," but his legacy rests equally on his standalone songs. His compositions attracted major interpreters including Al Jolson and Tony Bennett, a testament to the emotional directness and rhythmic vitality embedded in his melodic writing.
Why we love this
Kirby Shaw's arrangement preserves the buoyant spirit of Gensler's original while making the tune immediately singable for mixed voices. The rhythm section arrangement keeps things lean and supportive, letting the text's inherent optimism shine through without requiring orchestral density.
What to expect
The piece radiates a matter-of-fact optimism. There is no sentimentality here, just a straightforward encouragement wrapped in a melody that sticks with you. The rhythm and harmonic language belong squarely to the early twentieth century, which gives it a warm, slightly nostalgic quality that never feels dated.
Who it's for
Choirs seeking repertoire that feels genuine and cheerful without veering into saccharine territory. This works equally well for community choruses, church choirs looking for a lighter moment, or educational ensembles who need something fun that still requires musical precision.
How to get the most out of it
- Keep the tempo brisk but never rushed. The infectious charm lives in the groove, not in racing through the phrases.
- Shape the lyrics conversationally. These words are meant to sound like advice from a friend, not proclamations from a podium.
- Balance the choir against the instrumental parts so neither drowns out the other. This is a conversation, not a competition.
- Let the rhythm section breathe slightly on the first beat of key phrases to let the melody land clearly before continuing.
How to use it
Slot this into the second half of a concert to reset the energy after heavier material. It pairs naturally with other standards from the era or works beautifully as a palate cleanser between contrasting pieces. The text's message about resilience also makes it suitable for spring concerts or any program with a forward-looking theme.
Skills your students will build
- Lyrical phrasing in a pop-influenced idiom
- Rhythmic independence between voice and accompaniment
- Sustaining tone while maintaining conversational delivery
- Ensemble balance with small instrumental groups