Gary Meisner is an accomplished arranger with deep expertise in the accordion and a gift for adapting classic standards to showcase the instrument's full range. His arrangements balance accessibility with musical substance, making well-known material engaging for intermediate to advanced players without oversimplifying the harmony or character.
Why we love this
Meisner captures the infectious energy and nostalgic charm of this standard in a setting that lets accordionists shine. The arrangement respects the melody's singability while taking advantage of the accordion's natural ability to sustain harmony and add rhythmic drive, making it equally rewarding for solo performance or as a feature in a mixed ensemble.
What to expect
Bright and buoyant, with the warmth and swing typical of midcentury popular song. The arrangement captures the piece's inherent joie de vivre while giving the accordion plenty of room to project both lyricism and rhythmic personality.
Who it's for
Intermediate to advanced accordionists looking for a showpiece with genuine roots in the standard repertoire. This works equally well as a solo feature or as material for an accordion student who wants to expand beyond classical études.
How to get the most out of it
Lean into the rhythmic articulation. The accordion's bellows control shapes the phrasing; use pressure changes to highlight the syncopation without losing forward momentum.
Balance the melody line against accompanying voices so the tune reads clearly even when you're managing multiple registers simultaneously.
Shape the dynamic arc across the full two pages. Identify natural peaks and valleys in the form to create contrast and sustain interest through the piece.
How to use it
Feature this at a pops concert, accordion recital, or ensemble showcase where you want a number that entertains an audience while demonstrating real musicianship. It's also ideal for a mixed instrumental program where a solo accordion feature adds color and variety to the lineup.
Skills your students will build
Managing bellows technique across sustained harmonic passages
Balancing melody against accompaniment in a single-instrument context
Interpreting swing and popular song phrasing on a concert instrument
Navigating register changes and voicing choices for musical effect
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account