East Of The Sun

“East of the Sun (and West of the Moon)” is a jazz standard composed by Brooks Bowman. Originally written in 1934 for the Princeton University student musical Stags at Bay, the song has since been performed by various jazz musicians and vocalists, solidifying its place as a standard in the jazz repertoire.

The song follows an AABA form and is known for its elegant and beautiful melody. It is often performed at a medium-tempo swing rhythm, with a slightly relaxed feel. The harmony is distinctive, with each measure featuring different chords, making the harmonic flow particularly noteworthy. Overall, the piece is recognized for its romantic atmosphere, which is important to convey during performance.

The key to performing this piece lies in expressing the elegance and subtlety of the melody. Given the unique harmonic progression, it’s essential to handle the chords smoothly while maintaining the fluidity of the melody line. In the solo sections, staying true to the basic chord structure while adding personal interpretation can add depth to the music. Communication with the rhythm section is crucial, especially with the drums and bass, as tight coordination enhances the swing feel of the piece. Balancing the romantic vibe with the individualistic expression and freedom inherent in jazz is key to delivering a successful performance of this song.