Strike up the band – Free Jazz Lead Sheet
Bb Major – George Gershwin 1927
Strike Up the Band by George Gershwin (1927) is a Broadway standard that has become a lasting jazz favorite in Bb Major. Its melodic richness and harmonic sophistication continue to inspire jazz interpretations across generations of musicians. The composer was known as a pianist and composer, and this piece exemplifies their lasting impact on American music. The tune's memorable melody and adaptable structure make it a staple of the jazz
Enjoyed this free leadsheet?
Support the projectAbout this song:
strike up the band, composed by George and Ira Gershwin in 1927, is an upbeat, celebratory jazz and Broadway standard. Its energetic melody and rhythm reflect the lively spirit of the Gershwin brothers’ compositions.
The first recording was by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra, and later versions by Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, and big bands showcased its versatility in both jazz and popular contexts.
The tune typically follows a 32-bar AABA structure with rhythmic drive and memorable melodic motifs, making it ideal for swing arrangements and improvisational exploration.
About the composer: George Gershwin
George Gershwin (1898–1937) was an American composer and pianist who blended jazz, popular, and classical music. His most important contribution was creating enduring standards like "Rhapsody in Blue" and "An American in Paris," while his opera "Porgy and Bess" and Pulitzer-winning musical "Of Thee I Sing" solidified his legacy.
