Fly Me To The Moon

“Fly Me to the Moon,” composed by Bart Howard in 1954, was originally titled “In Other Words.” The song has been recorded and interpreted by many artists, with Frank Sinatra’s version becoming particularly famous. It is considered one of the quintessential works representing the fusion of romantic pop and jazz of that era.

Originally composed in 3/4 time, the song is most commonly performed in 4/4 time. It follows an AABA form, with each section having distinct characteristics. The melody is sweet and romantic, while the harmonic structure follows the traditional jazz standard format. During performance, attention is often focused on the dynamic expression and emotional flow between sections.

The key to performing this piece lies in the delicate interpretation of the melody line and the free expression of rhythm. To convey the emotion of the lyrics, it is crucial to handle the nuances of the melody with care, while maintaining close communication with the rhythm section. In the solo sections, it’s important to preserve the song’s romantic quality while adding personal interpretation and expression. Additionally, keeping the narrative of the song intact while pursuing dynamic changes and varied expression in each section can make the performance more vibrant.