Up Tempo Swing

This classic chart is taken directly from the original ink parts that were on the stands at the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra (now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra) debut performance in February 1966 and continue to be played by the group Monday nights at the Village Vanguard in New York City. Originally commissioned by Count Basie for an entire album of Thad Jones’ music, but Basie never made the record, and suggested that Thad start his own band instead. From that advice, Thad formed the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra.Based on the chord changes to I Got Rhythm, this uptempo advanced level chart maintains the swinging Basie mindset and is in a 32-measure AABA form.