Fly Me To The Moon - Frank Sinatra

The setup of "Fly Me To The Moon" presents several technical challenges for the pianist:

• In measure 10 & 11, the rapid alternation between G4 and C5 creates a challenge in maintaining evenness and control.

• The syncopated rhythms in measures 20-22 can be tricky to execute cleanly without losing the groove, requiring good hand coordination.

To effectively master the intricate details of this piece, focused practice techniques are necessary:

• Measures 10-11: Slow down the passage with G4 and C5, employing a metronome to aid in achieving consistency before gradually building speed.

• Rhythmic Flexibility: Train the left hand to maintain a steady pulse while allowing the right hand’s melody to flow dynamically, making use of rubato to convey the song's expressiveness.

Detailed Analysis of the Sheet Music for "Fly Me To The Moon"

"Fly Me To The Moon," originally composed by Bart Howard and famously performed by Frank Sinatra, presents a captivating interplay of melody and harmony characterized by its rich harmonic progression.

• Form: The piece is structured in a standard AABA format, which is typical of many jazz standards. This form allows for thematic development while maintaining listener engagement.

• Key Signature: The piece is set in C Major, establishing a bright and uplifting atmosphere fitting for its romantic theme.

• Harmonic Progression: The chord changes throughout the sheet music reflect essential jazz progressions. Notably, the first section progresses through I-IV-V (C-F-G) within the initial measures, creating a stable foundation. In measures such as the transitions from G#4 to C4, an unexpected chromatic progression introduces subtle color that enriches the listening experience.

• Rhythmic Patterns: The rhythm is characterized by a consistent 4/4 time signature, punctuated by syncopations that create a lively and swinging feel, especially prominent in the transition sections. The presence of dotted rhythms and triplet figures in specific measures heightens the rhythmic interest (e.g., measure 9).

• Melodic Elements: The melody predominantly consists of stepwise motion augmented by strategic leaps, particularly evident in the opening phrases (C5, B4, A4) which establish the leitmotif of the piece. The use of grace notes and embellishments in the latter sections adds to the expressiveness of the performance.

Fly Me To The Moon

• Artist
  Frank Sinatra
• Number of imitations:
  365
• Genre
  Frank Sinatra
• Key
  C
• Tempo
  120
• Pages
  4
• Notation
  Frank Sinatra
• Compose
  Frank Sinatra
• Introduction
  Fly Me To The Moon' - Frank Sinatra, This music is undefined, arr. by Frank Sinatra, Suitable for all students to learn