Sing, Sing, Sing: Flute

Vince Gassi's arrangement preserves all the swagger and drive of the original while keeping the demands reasonable for young players. The written drum solo and big shout chorus at the modulation give your ensemble genuine moments of excitement without requiring virtuosic chops, making this a morale booster that also teaches authentic swing interpretation.

Propulsive and joyful. The tune bounces on that signature drum groove while bright brass stabs punctuate the melody, and the whole thing builds toward a celebratory shout chorus that reminds you why swing bands exist in the first place.

First-year jazz ensemble students and directors building a foundational big band repertoire. Players need solid fundamentals in swing rhythm and sectional balance, but not advanced improvisation or extended technique.

• Lock the rhythm section into the iconic drum pattern from measure one. Consistency here is what makes the tune groove; have the drummer lead the rehearsal with that pocket established before layering in the front line.
• Balance the brass voicing so the trumpet 1 line sits naturally at its E top space ceiling. This range sits comfortably for developing players and lets soloists shine without strain.
• Shape the shout chorus at the modulation as a unified ensemble moment. Dynamics and articulation should feel collective here; this is where the arrangement delivers its payoff.

Program this early in the season once your ensemble has settled into reading and intonation. It works as a festival opener, a concert closer, or a standalone feature that brings immediate energy to any program. Pair it with ballads or blues to show the range of your band.

• Reading and executing swing rhythms and articulation
• Sectional balance and blend in big band voicing
• Following a written drum solo while maintaining ensemble time
• Responding to dynamic and textural shifts at key modulation points
• Maintaining groove through repeated, signature rhythmic figures