Have You Met Miss Jones

“Have You Met Miss Jones” is a song composed by Richard Rodgers with lyrics by Lorenz Hart for the 1937 musical I’d Rather Be Right. The musical, which featured then-president Franklin D. Roosevelt, reflected the political climate of the time. This particular song, however, is a romantic love song that focuses on the theme of love.

The piece is widely recognized as a jazz standard and follows an AABA structure. Unlike other jazz standards, the harmonic progression in the bridge section is notably distinctive. This progression presents a challenge for jazz musicians, as it involves a modulation that raises the key by a half step, adding tension and excitement to the piece.

Special attention should be given to the harmonic progression in the bridge section. Musicians need to interpret the harmonies and articulate the jazz phrasing accurately to handle the solo and ensemble parts effectively. Coordination with the rhythm section is crucial, especially in capturing the harmonic shifts and rhythmic patterns in the bridge to maintain musical coherence. Interplay among the musicians, dynamic expression, and subtle emotional delivery are essential to bringing out the song’s intended mood, while balancing rhythm and melody to achieve a nuanced and sensitive performance.