Explore the Melodic Magic of 'Fly Me to the Moon' with the Real Book Edition - Your Ultimate Guide

Fly Me to the Moon is a timeless jazz classic that has been performed by countless artists and has captivated audiences for decades. The song, which was written by Bart Howard in 1954, has become a staple in the jazz genre, with its smooth melody and romantic lyrics. But did you know that Fly Me to the Moon has also been adapted into a real book? This means that musicians can now play and improvise on the song using a set of standardized chords and notation. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Fly Me to the Moon real book and explore the history and significance of this beloved jazz standard.

Before we dive into the details of the Fly Me to the Moon real book, let's first examine the song itself. As mentioned earlier, the track was written by Bart Howard, a songwriter who had previously worked as a performer in New York City. The song was originally titled In Other Words, but was later retitled as Fly Me to the Moon after Frank Sinatra recorded a version of the song in 1964. Sinatra's rendition is perhaps the most famous version of the song, and has become synonymous with the track in popular culture.

The Fly Me to the Moon real book contains a lead sheet for the song, which includes the melody, lyrics, and chord changes. The chord progression for the song is relatively simple, consisting of a series of ii-V-I progressions in the key of C. However, the simplicity of the chord changes allows for improvisation and interpretation, making the song a favorite among jazz musicians.

One interesting aspect of the Fly Me to the Moon real book is that it contains several different versions of the song. In addition to the original version in the key of C, the real book also includes versions in different keys, such as Bb and Eb. This allows musicians to choose a key that is comfortable for their instrument or vocal range.

In addition to the different keys, the Fly Me to the Moon real book also includes variations on the chord changes. For example, some versions of the song use a ii-V-I-IV progression instead of the traditional ii-V-I. These variations add new dimensions to the song and allow for even more creativity in improvisation.

Another interesting aspect of the Fly Me to the Moon real book is that it includes arrangements for different ensembles. For example, there are arrangements for solo piano, small jazz combos, and big bands. This means that musicians of all levels and ensemble sizes can play and enjoy the song.

It's worth noting that the Fly Me to the Moon real book is just one of many real books that exist in the jazz world. Real books are essentially collections of standardized chord progressions and notation for popular jazz standards, allowing musicians to easily learn and play these songs together. The first real book was compiled by a group of Berklee College of Music students in the 1970s, and since then, many other real books have been published.

Despite the many versions and variations of Fly Me to the Moon that exist, the song remains a beloved classic in the jazz cannon. Its timeless melody and romantic lyrics continue to captivate audiences, and its inclusion in the Fly Me to the Moon real book ensures that musicians will continue to play and improvise on the song for years to come.

In conclusion, the Fly Me to the Moon real book is a valuable resource for jazz musicians of all levels and abilities. Its inclusion of multiple versions and arrangements of the song allows for endless possibilities in interpretation and improvisation. Whether you're a seasoned jazz musician or just starting out, the Fly Me to the Moon real book is a must-have in your music collection.

Fly Me to the Moon: The Jazz Standard That Soars to New Heights

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a classic jazz standard that has been popularized by some of the greatest artists of all time. Originally composed by Bart Howard in 1954, the song has become a staple for jazz musicians and vocalists alike. The song’s lyrics, which describe a romantic getaway to the moon, have captured the imagination of audiences for decades.

The History of “Fly Me to the Moon”

Bart Howard first wrote In Other Words as a poem in 1954. He set the words to music and renamed it Fly Me to the Moon. The song was first recorded by Felicia Sanders in 1959, but it was Peggy Lee's version in 1960 that really made the song famous. Since then, “Fly Me to the Moon” has been covered by countless artists from Frank Sinatra to Tony Bennett, and even more recently, Michael Bublé and Diana Krall.

The Lyrics of “Fly Me to the Moon”

The lyrics of “Fly Me to the Moon” are simple yet poetic. They describe a desire to escape Earth and travel to the moon with a loved one. The opening lines are particularly memorable: “Fly me to the moon / Let me play among the stars / Let me see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars.” The rest of the lyrics continue in this romantic vein, painting a picture of two lovers lost in the beauty of the cosmos.

The Melody of “Fly Me to the Moon”

The melody of “Fly Me to the Moon” is equally memorable. It begins with a lilting piano intro that sets the mood for the rest of the song. The melody is simple and elegant, with a haunting quality that makes it instantly recognizable. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Fly me to the moon” several times, is particularly powerful and has become a classic jazz refrain.

“Fly Me to the Moon” in Popular Culture

“Fly Me to the Moon” has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. It was prominently featured in the 1995 film “Apollo 13,” which tells the story of the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission to the moon. The song has also been used in commercials for everything from cars to watches, cementing its place in popular culture.

The Legacy of “Fly Me to the Moon”

“Fly Me to the Moon” has become one of the most beloved jazz standards of all time. Its simple yet evocative lyrics and unforgettable melody have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. The song’s legacy continues to this day, with new generations of jazz musicians and vocalists adding their own unique interpretations to this timeless classic.

The Best Versions of “Fly Me to the Moon”

There are countless versions of “Fly Me to the Moon” out there, each with its own unique flavor and style. Some of the best include Frank Sinatra’s swinging rendition, Tony Bennett’s soulful take on the song, and Diana Krall’s smooth and sultry version. Michael Bublé’s cover of the song is also a standout, with his trademark crooning vocals giving the song a modern twist.

Why We Love “Fly Me to the Moon”

So why do we love “Fly Me to the Moon” so much? Perhaps it’s the song’s dreamy lyrics, which transport us to another world. Or maybe it’s the melody, which is both haunting and beautiful. Whatever the reason, “Fly Me to the Moon” has a special place in our hearts and continues to inspire us with its timeless beauty.

“Fly Me to the Moon” as a Real Book

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a staple of the jazz repertoire and has been included in numerous real books over the years. Real books are collections of lead sheets that contain the melody, chords, and lyrics for hundreds of jazz standards. They are an essential tool for jazz musicians and are often used in jam sessions and performances. “Fly Me to the Moon” is a must-have in any real book collection and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gig.

Conclusion

“Fly Me to the Moon” is a classic jazz standard that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet evocative lyrics and unforgettable melody have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply a lover of good music, “Fly Me to the Moon” is a song that will always hold a special place in your heart.

Introduction to the Fly Me to the Moon Real Book

The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book is a must-have for any jazz musician. This iconic tune has been recorded countless times by some of the most legendary jazz artists, including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Nat King Cole. The real book is a comprehensive collection of chord progressions and melodies, allowing musicians to play and improvise over this timeless classic with ease.

History and Origins of the Song

Fly Me to the Moon was written in 1954 by Bart Howard, a songwriter who had been performing in piano bars in New York City. Originally titled In Other Words, the song was given its new name when it was recorded by Kaye Ballard in 1958. However, it wasn't until Frank Sinatra recorded the song in 1964 that it became an instant classic.The song's popularity was further cemented when it was played during the Apollo 10 mission in 1969, earning it the nickname the astronaut's song. Today, Fly Me to the Moon is considered one of the greatest American songs of all time.

Comprehensive List of Chord Progressions and Melodies

The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book contains a comprehensive list of chord progressions and melodies for the song. The chord progressions are written in standard jazz notation, allowing musicians to easily follow along. The melodies are also included, making it easy for singers to perform the song.Some of the chord progressions included in the real book include the classic ii-V-I progression, as well as more complex progressions such as the iii-vi-ii-V progression. The melodies are also written out in standard notation, making it easy for instrumentalists to play along.

Tips for Improvising Over the Song

One of the great things about the Fly Me to the Moon Real Book is that it allows musicians to improvise over the song. Here are some tips for improvising over the tune:1. Start with the melody: Before you start improvising, make sure you have a good understanding of the melody. This will help you stay grounded and provide a solid foundation for your improvisation.2. Experiment with different scales: The song is typically played in the key of C, but you can experiment with different scales to add some variety to your improvisation. Try playing the song in a different key or using a different mode.3. Use chord tones: When improvising over the chord progressions, try to focus on the chord tones. This will help you stay in harmony with the song and create a more cohesive sound.4. Play with dynamics: Don't be afraid to experiment with dynamics when improvising. Use dynamics to create tension and release, and to add drama and excitement to your solo.

Transcriptions of Notable Recordings

The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book also includes transcriptions of notable recordings of the song. This allows musicians to study the styles of some of the most legendary jazz artists and incorporate their techniques into their own playing.Some of the notable recordings included in the real book are Frank Sinatra's version from 1964, Tony Bennett's version from 1994, and Nat King Cole's version from 1965. Each transcription includes detailed notation of the chords and melodies used in the recording, as well as any embellishments or variations used by the artist.

Alternate Arrangements and Interpretations

While the Fly Me to the Moon Real Book provides a comprehensive list of chord progressions and melodies, there are also many alternate arrangements and interpretations of the song. Jazz musicians are known for their creativity and improvisation, and many have put their own spin on this classic tune.Some alternate arrangements include playing the song in a different key or time signature, adding new chord progressions or melodies, or even changing the style of the song altogether. The real book provides a great starting point for musicians looking to experiment and create their own unique arrangements of the song.

Analysis of the Song's Structure and Harmony

The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book also includes an analysis of the song's structure and harmony. This provides musicians with a deeper understanding of the song and allows them to make more informed decisions when improvising or creating arrangements.The song follows a classic AABA form, with each section consisting of 8 bars. The harmony is based on a ii-V-I progression, with some variations in the bridge section. Understanding the song's structure and harmony can help musicians anticipate chord changes and create more cohesive solos and arrangements.

Techniques for Soloing and Comping

The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book also includes techniques for soloing and comping over the song. Soloing and comping are both important aspects of jazz music, and mastering these techniques can take a musician's playing to the next level.Some techniques for soloing over the song include using chromaticism, playing off the melody, and incorporating different scales and modes. Techniques for comping include using chord inversions, playing with dynamics, and using rhythmic variation.

Recommended Listening and Inspiration

One of the best ways to improve as a jazz musician is to listen to and study the work of other artists. The Fly Me to the Moon Real Book includes recommendations for listening and inspiration, allowing musicians to broaden their musical horizons and incorporate new ideas into their playing.Some recommended listening includes recordings by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Nat King Cole, as well as recordings by other jazz artists who have put their own spin on the song. Listening to different interpretations of the song can provide new ideas and inspiration for musicians.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the Fly Me to the Moon Real Book

In conclusion, the Fly Me to the Moon Real Book is an essential resource for any jazz musician. This timeless classic has been recorded countless times and has become a staple of the jazz repertoire. The real book provides a comprehensive list of chord progressions and melodies, allowing musicians to play and improvise over the song with ease.The book also includes transcriptions of notable recordings, alternate arrangements and interpretations, and techniques for soloing and comping. By studying and practicing with the real book, musicians can gain a deeper understanding of the song's structure and harmony and improve their overall playing.

Point of View: Fly Me to the Moon Real Book

About the Book

Fly Me to the Moon Real Book is a comprehensive collection of jazz standards, including lead sheets, melody, chords, and lyrics. It is a must-have for any jazz musician, aspiring or professional, who wants to expand their repertoire and learn classic jazz tunes. The book includes over 200 songs, ranging from ballads to up-tempo swing, and covers various genres such as bebop, bossa nova, and blues.

Pros of Fly Me to the Moon Real Book

The book is an excellent resource for learning and practicing classic jazz tunes.
It includes accurate lead sheets and chord changes for each song.
The book is well-organized, with songs arranged alphabetically and by key.
The book features a durable spiral binding that allows it to lay flat on a music stand.
It includes useful notes on the history and context of each song.

Cons of Fly Me to the Moon Real Book

The book does not include complete arrangements for each song, which may be a drawback for some musicians looking for more guidance.
Some of the songs are transposed to different keys than the original recordings, which may be problematic for musicians playing along with recordings.
There are occasional errors in the chord changes and melody lines, which can be frustrating for musicians trying to learn the songs accurately.

Table Comparison: Fly Me to the Moon Real Book vs. Other Jazz Songbooks

	Fly Me to the Moon Real Book	The Real Book	The New Real Book
Number of Songs	Over 200	400	275
Format	Lead sheets with melody, chords, and lyrics	Lead sheets with melody, chords, and lyrics	Lead sheets with melody, chords, and lyrics
Genres	Bebop, bossa nova, blues, etc.	Mainly bebop and swing	Mainly contemporary jazz
Accuracy	Generally accurate, but with occasional errors	Generally accurate, but with some errors	Generally accurate, but with some errors
Arrangements	Lead sheets only	Lead sheets only	Lead sheets only

Overall, Fly Me to the Moon Real Book is a valuable resource for jazz musicians looking to expand their repertoire and improve their skills. While it may have some drawbacks, such as occasional errors and the lack of complete arrangements, its comprehensive collection of classic jazz standards makes it a must-have for any serious jazz musician.

Fly Me to the Moon Real Book: A Must-Have for Jazz Musicians

Thank you for taking the time to read this article about the Fly Me to the Moon real book. I hope that you have found it informative and helpful in your musical journey. The Fly Me to the Moon real book is an essential resource for jazz musicians, both aspiring and professional, and it's definitely worth adding to your collection.

The Fly Me to the Moon real book is a collection of lead sheets for over 400 of the most popular jazz standards. These lead sheets include the melody, chords, and lyrics of each song, making it easy for musicians to learn and perform these tunes. The book is available in various editions, including Bb, Eb, and bass clef, so it can accommodate different instruments and playing styles.

One of the great things about the Fly Me to the Moon real book is that it includes many classic jazz tunes that have become standards in the genre. It's a great resource for learning these tunes and building a repertoire of jazz standards that you can use in your performances. Plus, the book is updated regularly with new tunes, so you can always stay current with the latest additions to the jazz canon.

If you're an aspiring jazz musician, the Fly Me to the Moon real book is an excellent resource for learning jazz standards and developing your skills as a performer. By studying the lead sheets in the book, you can gain a deeper understanding of the chord progressions, melody, and harmony of each tune, which can help you improvise and create your arrangements.

For professional jazz musicians, the Fly Me to the Moon real book is an indispensable tool for gigs and performances. With over 400 songs in one convenient package, you can be sure that you'll have the tunes you need for any occasion. Plus, the book is easy to read and well-organized, which makes it easy to find the songs you need quickly.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned jazz musician, the Fly Me to the Moon real book is a must-have resource for anyone who loves jazz music. It's a comprehensive collection of jazz standards that will keep you inspired and learning for years to come.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Fly Me to the Moon real book to any jazz musician looking to expand their repertoire and improve their skills. The book is an excellent resource for learning and performing jazz standards, and it's a valuable addition to any musician's library. So, if you haven't already, be sure to pick up a copy and start exploring the wonderful world of jazz music!

Thank you again for reading this article, and I wish you all the best in your musical journey. Remember to keep practicing, keep listening, and keep exploring the amazing world of jazz music!