Night Song Sheet Music Preview

Night Song: E-Z Play Today

As performed by Sammy Davis Jr.

Item: 35-DS00857500

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$4.99
Description

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 3
SKU: 35-DS00857500

More about this title

About the Artist: Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr. was a virtuoso entertainer whose career spanned decades and defied easy categorization. As a pianist, singer, dancer, and actor, he commanded stages from Broadway to Las Vegas, bringing sophistication and infectious energy to every standard in the Great American Songbook.

Davis's interpretations of jazz standards reveal a deep understanding of swing phrasing and harmonic nuance. His piano playing, though often overshadowed by his other talents, demonstrates genuine musicianship and serves as an excellent study for students exploring how to bring personality and style to well-known melodies.

Why we love this

This arrangement captures the elegance of Davis's approach to standards without requiring advanced technique, making it accessible for students still building their jazz vocabulary. The three-page length is ideal for recitals, student showcases, or as a segue piece in a concert that bridges classical and contemporary repertoire.

What to expect

Smooth and sophisticated, with the kind of understated cool that makes a simple tune feel effortless. The melody sits comfortably under the fingers while maintaining the suave quality that Davis brought to every performance.

Who it's for

Student pianists exploring jazz standards and popular song, particularly those ready to move beyond purely classical repertoire. Teachers seeking accessible arrangements that introduce swing idioms and the character of a legendary performer's style.

How to get the most out of it

  • Let the melody breathe. Resist the urge to rush through the phrase; Davis's phrasing relied on space and intentionality.
  • Voice the left-hand accompaniment with clarity rather than thickness. Jazz standards demand transparency so the harmony doesn't obscure the melody.
  • Experiment with slight rubato in the verse sections. The E-Z Play format can accommodate flexible timing when you've mastered the basic line.

How to use it

Pair this with other classic standards to create a jazz standards set during a spring concert or informal recital. It also works beautifully as a solo piece for a student exploring the songbook, or as light entertainment between more substantial classical works.

Skills your students will build

  • Reading and interpreting lead sheets with jazz voicings
  • Applying swing feel and rhythmic interpretation to melody
  • Balancing accompaniment texture to support rather than hide the tune
  • Understanding phrasing conventions in American popular song

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