Nice Work If You Can Get It: Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by Ira Gershwin / As performed by Frank Sinatra / As performed by George Gershwin / Arranged by Mark Brymer
Item: 35-PK00309430
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Description
Featured in a new musical of the same name starring Matthew Broderick and Kelli O'Hara, this charming song by George and Ira Gershwin is filled to the brim with whimsy and carefree charm!
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00309430
More about this title
About the Artist: Ira Gershwin
Ira Gershwin stands as one of American musical theater's most accomplished lyricists, crafting witty, singable lines that matched the sophistication of his brother George's melodies. His gift for conversational phrasing and clever rhyme schemes made standards like this one endure across generations, from Broadway stages to jazz clubs to concert halls.
For music educators, Gershwin's work offers a masterclass in how lyrics and melody intertwine. His lyrics sit naturally on the voice, which makes them invaluable teaching tools for helping singers understand text placement, phrasing, and the relationship between words and music.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures the suave, effortless sophistication that made the song a Sinatra signature while remaining perfectly singable for choral ensembles. Mark Brymer's orchestration balances accessibility with genuine jazz idiom, so your singers get to inhabit a swinging standard without needing professional-level vocal jazz training to pull it off.
What to expect
Urbane and playful, with an underlying contentment that's genuinely charming rather than saccharine. The melody has an easy swing to it, and the harmonic language sparkles with the kind of sophisticated beauty that made 1930s songwriting distinctive. Singing this feels like sliding into a well-tailored suit and knowing you look good.
Who it's for
Choirs comfortable with jazz idiom and pop-influenced repertoire will find this accessible and fun. This works particularly well for show choirs, jazz choirs, or any ensemble looking to add an iconic American standard to their library.
How to get the most out of it
- Let the relaxed, conversational quality of the lyrics dictate your tempo. Gershwin's wit lands when there's space to breathe between phrases, so resist the urge to rush the delivery.
- Balance blend matters here. The melody is memorable enough that singers will naturally push their part; work instead on letting accompanying voices create a unified backdrop that supports rather than competes.
- The Gershwin harmonic language includes some beautiful chromatic movement that might surprise singers expecting a simple standard. Call out these moments in rehearsal so intonation stays locked.
- This song thrives on rhythmic relaxation. Encourage your singers to sit slightly behind the beat in the swing passages; that's where the groove lives.
How to use it
Pair this with other Golden Age standards for a concert celebrating American songwriting, or feature it as a lighter moment in a mixed program. The Gershwin pedigree also makes it a strong choice for a music history unit focused on the intersection of classical and popular traditions.
Skills your students will build
- Swing rhythms and jazz articulation
- Phrasing over bar lines in a conversational melodic style
- Intonation in chromatic harmonic progressions
- Blend and balance when carrying harmony in a jazz context