All Or Nothings At All

“All Or Nothing At All” was composed by Arthur Altman and Jack Lawrence and was first released in 1939. The song’s lyrics express a strong emotion of all-or-nothing love, becoming famous through Frank Sinatra’s rendition. The lyrics convey a resolute determination to either give everything to a loved one or expect nothing at all.

The piece follows a 32-bar AABA structure. The A section features a smooth, flowing melody, while the B section introduces a more intense rhythm and melody. The melody line is highly expressive, and its harmony with the chords is unique, making the interpretation of the piece very important.

It’s crucial to accurately grasp the relationship between the melody and the harmony. By fully expressing the emotions and nuances of each measure, you can maximize the song’s expressive potential. The piece is rich in dynamic contrasts, so it’s important to highlight these changes effectively. If you’re playing a solo, stay true to the original melody while infusing your own emotions and style. Close communication with the rhythm section is essential to maintaining the flow and atmosphere of the performance.