Let's Call The Whole Thing Off (From "Shall We Dance"): Lead Sheet

This lead sheet captures one of the Gershwin brothers' most charming creations, and the Just Real Book's meticulous transcription means you're working from text approved by the Gershwin estate itself. The harmonic movement and melodic contour make this ideal for guitarists developing their jazz vocabulary without sacrificing the song's theatrical elegance.

The piece radiates wit and sophistication. Gershwin's melody sits comfortably in the voice, and the harmonic language unfolds with both logic and surprise. There's an underlying joy to the writing that feels fresh even after a century.

Guitarists who read jazz standards and lead sheets with fluency will find this an essential reference for one of the American songbook's finest examples. Whether you're preparing for a jazz combo performance, building a repertoire for casual session work, or deepening your understanding of early jazz composition, this collection serves all those needs.

• Treat the melody as a conversation. The lyrical title calls for phrasing that mirrors natural speech patterns, so lean into the rhythmic flexibility that swing allows.
• Explore the chord voicings carefully. Gershwin's harmonic choices contain color and movement; let them breathe rather than rushing through changes.
• Balance accompaniment and melody. As a guitarist reading from a lead sheet, your role shifts between supporting the tune and taking it forward, so listen actively to what the context demands.

Slot this into a jazz standards set or a program celebrating American songbook standards. It pairs naturally with other Gershwin compositions in the collection, allowing you to build a thematic set that showcases the range and consistency of his output.

• Reading and performing from lead sheets with harmonic awareness
• Interpreting swing rhythm and melodic phrasing in jazz context
• Understanding Gershwin's harmonic language and voice leading
• Accompanying and soloing over standard jazz chord progressions