• Complex Rhythms: The overall 6/8 rhythmic structure can be tricky for performers unfamiliar with compound time signatures, meaning they may struggle with the swing feel, especially in measures 1-10.

• Hand Coordination: The section that includes syncopation, specifically between B4 and D#5 in measures 10 to 15, requires precise finger placement and independence.

• Dynamic Control: Maintaining the balance between the melody (mainly led by B4) and the accompaniment (G4 and A4) throughout the piece means the player should focus on touch and dynamics.

To effectively tackle the difficulties presented in "That's Life," here are some detailed tips:

Measure-Specific Techniques:

• Measures 3-10: Start by practicing with a metronome, setting it to 112 BPM and focusing specifically on the swings of 8th notes. Break it down by playing only the melody notes (B4, D5) before introducing the left hand.

• Measures 10-15 (Syncopation): Isolate these measures and practice slowly, accentuating the beats where the syncopations occur. Use a hands-separate approach initially to reinforce correct fingerings.

Finger Independence Exercises:

Dynamics and Expression:

To effectively convey the emotive quality of the piece, spend time refining dynamic contrasts. Focus on the strong and weak beats within the measures to create an expressive musical statement, particularly in the climactic phrases found in measures 15-20.

Utilizing the Score Effectively:

• Mark your sheet music with fingerings or notes on difficult transitions. Encourage recording yourself to spot areas of improvement in dynamics and rhythm when playing.

Sheet Music Analysis for "That's Life" by Frank Sinatra

Unique Features:

This sheet music for "That's Life" is in the key of G Major and is structured in a 6/8 time signature, which lends a dynamic and swinging rhythmical feel to the piece. The tempo is set at a moderate 112 BPM, allowing for a comfortable exploration of its melodic and harmonic richness.

Form and Harmony:

• Chord Progression: The piece showcases a classic I-IV-V progression which is prominent throughout, particularly highlighted in the measures containing the repeated phrases like B4, A4, and G4. This establishes a familiar tonality, easily recognizable to listeners.

• Sectional Variations: Measures 15-20 introduce more tension through the use of D#5 and B5, creating a compelling contrast that propels the musical narrative forward. The transition to B4 and then to G4 shortly thereafter demonstrates effective use of cadences and harmonic movement.

Rhythmic Texture:

The 6/8 rhythm creates a lilting quality, helping to convey the song's lyrical content of persistence in the face of adversity. This can be seen in measures 3-10 where the use of eighth notes (e.g., D5 and B4) provides a buoyant drive.

That's Life

• Artist
  Frank Sinatra
• Number of imitations:
  34
• Genre
  Frank Sinatra
• Key
  G
• Tempo
  112
• Pages
  2
• Notation
  Frank Sinatra
• Compose
  Frank Sinatra
• Introduction
  That's Life' - Frank Sinatra, This music is undefined, arr. by Frank Sinatra, Suitable for all students to learn