That Old Feeling: E-Z Play Today

Stewart's treatment of this standard strips away unnecessary arrangement complexity while preserving the song's inherent sophistication. Students encounter a piece that respects the melody's architecture and rewards careful attention to dynamic shaping and rubato rather than technical pyrotechnics.

Warm and introspective, with the quality of a late-night recollection. The harmonic movement has the unhurried quality of someone reflecting on memory, and the melody sits comfortably in a range that invites listeners to lean in and listen closely.

Pianists seeking authentic standards repertoire that bridges classical training and popular music. Advanced students and teachers can mine this arrangement for lessons in jazz harmony, interpretive phrasing, and how to honor a song's melodic integrity while maintaining musical sophistication.

• Let the melody breathe. This standard thrives on space and phrasing rather than rushing through chord changes. Give yourself permission to sit comfortably on important melodic notes.
• Balance sophistication with accessibility. The harmonic language is jazz-informed but remains grounded; avoid overcomplicating voicings or adding unnecessary chromatic passing tones.
• Shape the accompaniment to support the singer's phrasing. When performing this as a solo piano piece, treat the left hand as a responsive partner rather than a steady timekeeper.

Include this in a jazz standards recital or pops concert where it provides emotional contrast without demanding technical fireworks. It works beautifully alongside other accessible standards or as a bridge between classical and contemporary repertoire in a mixed program.

• Interpreting jazz harmony and seventh chord voicings
• Shaping melodic phrasing with sensitivity to harmonic rhythm
• Balancing left-hand accompaniment patterns with lyrical right-hand writing
• Understanding the traditions of the Great American Songbook