What Is This Thing Called Love? [Jazz version] (from Wake Up And Dream) (arr. Brent Edstrom): Piano Vocal

Brent Edstrom's piano arrangement strips this standard down to its essentials, letting the melody and harmony shine without unnecessary ornamentation. The four-page length makes it accessible for vocalists at various levels while preserving Porter's sophisticated harmonic language. This version sits perfectly in a jazz-inflected recital or as part of a standards-focused concert program.

Porter's timeless melody unfolds with a casual sophistication, inviting the performer to ask the title's question with both vulnerability and wry humor. The harmonic underpinnings support a warm, intimate sound that feels like a late-night conversation rather than a formal performance.

Vocalists preparing jazz standards repertoire or exploring the Great American Songbook will find this arrangement approachable yet musically substantial. Pianists accompanying singers benefit from an arrangement that provides harmonic support without demanding virtuosic technique, leaving room for responsive accompaniment.

• Listen closely to how the piano comps behind the vocal line; the arrangement creates natural conversation between voice and keys that invites relaxed phrasing rather than rigid tempo.
• Approach the harmonic language with attention to voice leading in the accompaniment, which rewards a singer who breathes musically rather than at written phrase marks.
• Treat the lyrics with the conversational intimacy they deserve; Porter's wit lands only when delivered as natural speech, not as sung text.

Pair this with other Porter standards or jazz-era songs in a cabaret-style evening, or include it as a contemporary standard in a vocal recital that balances classical and popular repertoire. The concise length makes it ideal as an encore or as part of a thematic program exploring love songs across genres.

• Interpreting jazz swing feel and rhythmic flexibility
• Navigating extended jazz harmonies and chromatic voice leading
• Coordinating vocal phrasing with piano accompaniment patterns
• Balancing legit singing technique with conversational lyrical delivery